Do You Want a Press Pass? - DPChallenge Forums

Sigma 18-125mm f/3.5-5.6 DC for Canon

06/16/2005 06:50:37 AM · #1

It is a myth that there is this magical thing called a 'press pass' that will allow you to take your camera wherever you want, especially to really fun places, like backstage at a concert or onto pit road at a car race or etc, etc, etc...and any company offering you such a thing is really doing nothing more than separating you from your money.

To get press access at most venues, you have to request them in advance, on the publication's letterhead. You make your request through the venue's PR department. Not all requests are honored--they are evaluated as to whether the requests is from a legitimate agency or not. Many PR departments keep databases of publications and clippings, so that they can tell who is actually using the passes they give out. These PR professionals are pretty good at weeding out the recognizable agency request from those that smack of "here's another fan who wants in with a camera."

As the credentials themselves are usually made to be easily recognizable by the venue's security detail, don't think that because you can 'design' a 'press pass' in photoshop that you are going to somehow find yourself backstage at a Rolling Stones concert...

However, there is a way to get what you are after, if you are willing to work at it.

Find a small publication, like a weekly paper. Go visit them. Introduce yourself to the editor and/or photo director, and ask them if they ever use freelancers. You might want to take along some samples of your work that show something of your photojournalistic abilities. They may or may not agree to put you on their list, right on the spot.

But, if they don't, you'll just have to work a little harder. You might have to try more than one publication. Look through back issues of the publication to get an idea of what type of images they print. Keep your eye out for opportunities to take such images--and when you do, rush them over to the paper to see if they can use them! They may or may not take it that time, or the next, but, I can tell you from experience, perseverance pays off. And, when the powers-that-be determine that they can count on you, they will not only start taking your work on a regular basis, they will actually start calling you to cover things that their regular photogs can't cover...

And that will also lead to your being able to ask them to make certain requests on your behalf, such as getting a press pass for an upcoming event you would like to shoot!

They may or may not be able to come through for you each and every time, so when they do, you have to make the most of it. Get the publication the shots they need, and make sure you get lots of good ones for your portfolio. Even though there might be licensing restrictions that prevent you from selling your images to the public, you sure can show them to other potential employers.

One thing to keep in mind, when you have these opportunities, is to carry yourself as a professional. If you are going to be around celebrities or other publicly recognizable people, do NOT behave as a paparazzi. Take your pictures without coming across as a star-struck stalker. Keep in mind, you'll be known not just for the images you produce, but also how you got them. Probably the biggest no-no of all is asking anyone for autographs; just don't do it.

Aside from periodically getting 'official' credentials, I also carry business card for some of the editors I shoot for. Whenever I find myself in a situation where I want to take pictures that might be suitable for publication, I find the person in charge and tell them I'm a photojournalist, and let them know they can call the editor if they have any questions--then I show them a card. These cards are also handy reminders to me to call when I see something happening; after all, if I can't sell the editor on what I see, it's probably not going to be worth the time and energy to take shots, edit them, and get turn them in.

One thing I cannot stress enough: the biggest mistake you can make is to misrepresent who you are and what you are trying to do. If you want to work professionally, work at it. If people think you are legit, they are more than willing to help you. On the other hand, if they think you are only looking for shortcuts, they'll probably look at you the same way you look at someone who cuts in front of you on the highway...

In addition to publication-sponsored credentials, there are a couple more options you might want to consider. In some cities and towns, the local police departments public relations office issue 'press passes'. These are typically used to identify you as someone who can be allowed to cross police tape (usually with an escort!). They may or may not help you get into concerts or sporting events. You might also check with your state's high school athletic association; some of them issue credentials that allow you to shoot at any sponsored high school athletic event. Just remember, one credential/pass does not automatically work everywhere, and if you try to push it, you might get lucky every now and then, but in the long run, it's not worth the risk (think 'permanently barred from specific places'...).

If you really want a 'press pass', you can get one, if you are willing to work at it. It is not automatic, and it is probably not going to make you rich, but the rewards are well worth the effort.

Good luck!

Message edited by author 2009-06-07 06:54:09.

Kavey

Canon EOS-400D Rebel XTi

06/16/2005 06:58:07 AM · #2

Nice post, Skip. Thank you!

cbonsall

Canon EOS-350D Rebel XT

Sigma 10-20mm f/4-5.6 EX DC HSM for Canon

06/16/2005 07:42:40 AM · #3

//www.nps.gov/lyjo/Gifs/preshat.gif

so what are you saying? The bit of paper in my hat won't get me in to concerts?

damnit

Message edited by Manic - please post links or thumbs, not large images.

BobsterLobster

Fujifilm FinePix S3 Pro

Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-200mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II

06/16/2005 07:46:39 AM · #4

Totally agree with your advice, that's how I get my press passes.
You might have to be prepared to let your photos go for a pittance, and it really helps if you are able to type up an accompanying article.
Also, don't be afraid to be pro-active, most editors don't have time to contact you if there's an interesting event, you should contact them and suggest it.
Your reward is access to the photographer's pit and/or backstage areas, and making your portfolio look more impressive.
Show as much enthusiasm and energy as you can, and for God's sake be reliable. Don't ever let anybody down, reputation is one of your most cherished assets.

Olympus 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO M.Zuiko

06/16/2005 01:35:36 PM · #5

Originally posted by cbonsall:

The bit of paper in my hat won't get me in to concerts?

hahhahhaah! only if that was the backside of a ticket ;-)

Brad

Olympus OM-D E-M1

06/16/2005 01:47:45 PM · #6

Getting an "official" press pass may also require having a security background check done, often through the local law enforcement agency. At least that is what is happening out here on the left coast.

Getting media credentials for a local paper can be a much simpler process, often requiring little more than a letter from the editor, as was my case this past year, shooting High School sports. A copy was sent to the governing body for the State Foundation (CIF), and in turn, they assigned a me a laminated, numbered media pass, allowing full acces to any and all High School Sports activities in CA for the season.

06/16/2005 02:49:15 PM · #7

Originally posted by BradP:

especially if you want access to a well publicized political event.

Originally posted by BradP:

Getting media credentials for a local paper can be a much simpler process, often requiring little more than a letter from the editor, as was my case this past year, shooting High School sports. A copy was sent to the governing body for the State Foundation (CIF), and in turn, they assigned a me a laminated, numbered media pass, allowing full acces to any and all High School Sports activities in CA for the season.

good points, both, brad. they both point towards professional accountability, and i imagine that the pass would be jerked away if it were thought that it was being abused in any way. i also imagine that if you did not produce for the editor during the year, he probably would not be inclined to make a request in the upcoming year.

e301

06/16/2005 03:22:40 PM · #8

At our most recent show, in Rome, the support band brought a photographer with them - of course, he thus had an AAA pass with him. He introduced himself to the band, asked if they minded his taking a few shots, all very friendly, and the band were happy to oblige. nevertheless, when he tried to get onstage during the set, he was still thrown out, pretty forcefully.

It's a question of being sensitive to the limits, really - and I've never, ever seen a photographer outwith the immediate entourage of a band allowed on stage during a set; apart from me, of course, but then I'm not there as a photographer :-)

e

06/16/2005 03:28:35 PM · #9

Dammit, I need to get one of those hats!

Admittedly, I don't have the attention span to read that entire first post, but I'll throw out there that, though my photo passes always get screwed up somehow, I've never had what I'd call a negative experience. Even with large venues and big acts. Just good times! This is probably one of those occassions when being a femme works in my favor.
Oooh I should add it also helps when I want to go places and do things I'm not supposed to. Like standing on the stage with a big artist who probably wanted to string me up by my eyelids - but I don't care! I still got the shot :-) with the help of some beefy security guards who were supposed to be keeping me OUT.

Message edited by author 2005-06-16 15:30:49.

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

06/16/2005 04:07:10 PM · #10

Originally posted by GoldBerry:

Dammit, I need to get one of those hats!

i'm surprised you don't have one already...on you, it would probably be very fitting.

Originally posted by GoldBerry:

Admittedly, I don't have the attention span to read that entire first post

you don't need to...you already know all the ins-and-outs ;-)

Originally posted by GoldBerry:

but I'll throw out there that, though my photo passes always get screwed up somehow, I've never had what I'd call a negative experience. Even with large venues and big acts. Just good times! This is probably one of those occassions when being a femme works in my favor.

see the previous point

Originally posted by GoldBerry:

Oooh I should add it also helps when I want to go places and do things I'm not supposed to. Like standing on the stage with a big artist who probably wanted to string me up by my eyelids - but I don't care! I still got the shot :-)

this is the most entertaining part, comparing your experience with ed's post (and bobster's as well). my experience has been that by learning boundaries and learning to work with the other professionals, i've been able to get my shots without anyone wanting to string me up. but, hey, do what works for you. as long as you can get away with it, i'm sure somebody will be willing to pay you.

Message edited by author 2005-06-16 16:08:27.

jtf6agent

Canon EOS-1D Mark III

06/16/2005 04:21:18 PM · #11

Hey Skip great post. You are dead right. I was almost tossed from a Lakers game because of the "size" of my camera. I was asked if I was with the press and said no just a fan. The guard was cool because I was very polite and didn't give him any hassle so he let me keep the camera and I shot some awesome Koby shots. The very next night I was at a minor legue hockey game in San Diego and I was banned from taking picures with my camera. The same camera I used at the Lakers game. This is the leagues last place team and I was almost physically tossed from the game. I agreed not to photograph anything and was allowed to stay for the game. The next day I began my quest for the coveted "Press Pass" by pitching the local paper with a cd of my work and was hired after about a week of dancing with the local papers photo editor. My first assignment landed the front page. Now I call the paper with a request to photo somewhere and if a staffer isn't interested then I get the job. So anybody that reads this post YES it does work. But, only as well as your skills.

Alecia

Canon EOS-10D

06/16/2005 04:24:38 PM · #12

Originally posted by e301:

and I've never, ever seen a photographer outwith the immediate entourage of a band allowed on stage during a set

i suppose it depends on the publication you work for and their connections with the record labels. i generally get 3 passes--a photo pass, a working press pass, and a backstage pass. with these, it has been my personal experience that you can get pretty much everywhere, including onstage--if you are cool about it. mostly it is a matter of treating the bouncers with respect, and meeting the band backstage beforehand and establishing a great rapport that enables you to get you whatever you need--whether it's hanging out backstage watching the simpsons with les claypool, or standing in the wings of NIN's stage...your passes will get you only so far--being laid back and nice is the key. :)

06/16/2005 04:25:19 PM · #13

Originally posted by skiprow:

my experience has been that by learning boundaries and learning to work with the other professionals, i've been able to get my shots without anyone wanting to string me up.

I said "probably" wanted to string me up. I've never caused any problems or had any problems period. I think I said that already (but maybe there's an echo). :-) The point is I can get away with more without causing any problems. That's my point about being a woman in a seemingly male-dominant area. But men are known for not understanding what women are talking about LOL. Sorry..had to say it.

And in an effort to reiterate that I'm a nice girl (self proclaimed albeit) I've been chillin' backstage with some big groups and on stage infront of 10,000 ppl with just a lowly photo pass. I'm always chillin' like a villain - word.

Message edited by author 2005-06-16 16:27:42.

06/16/2005 04:43:06 PM · #14

Originally posted by GoldBerry:

The point is I can get away with more without causing any problems.

my points have nothing to do with male/female. it's more to do with the 'getting away with' part. maybe we're saying the same thing, but expressing ourselves differently, but you do seem to be coming across with an 'i'll go wherever the hell i want when i want, stepping in front of whoever i want however i want just because i know how to work my assets' type attitude, and while that approach may work for you, that doesn't sound like the same approach alecia, ed, or bob was expousing.

06/16/2005 04:54:21 PM · #15

skiprow skiprow skiprow.. I have an easier time getting things done than it sounds like you guys do. I chalk it up to be a woman. I don't push my way into anything - haven't had to but am not opposed.

C'est la vie. No need to be bitter.

06/16/2005 05:09:49 PM · #16

Originally posted by GoldBerry:

No need to be bitter.

who's bitter? i get my shots without having to show my ass-ets