Contacting Professors before App Submission? (PhD in East Asian Studies/Communication)

[onf]

Hi everyone,

I'm planning to apply to Ph.D. programs this winter, mostly in East Asian studies and some in communication/media studies. 

I'm curious about the importance of reaching out to professors at this stage. I've heard that the practice of contacting professors varies by field, and I'm wondering whether it's a common practice in EALC or the field of communication.

Is it necessary to contact faculty of interest before submitting the application?

Thank you!