How To Get A Press Pass For Sports Photography

Summary

In this video, Craig from Sports Photo 101 discusses the importance of press passes for sports photographers. He answers three key questions: whether you need a press pass, how to get one, and if they offer superpowers. The need for a press pass varies depending on the event level, from high school to professional sports. Craig outlines the process of obtaining a press pass, including contacting athletic directors and state associations. He also shares personal experiences of how press passes grant access to exclusive moments in sports, emphasizing the value of being affiliated with a legitimate organization.

Takeaways

• 😀 Press passes are essential for accessing higher-level sports events such as professional and upper-level college games.
• 😀 For smaller college or high school sports, you may not always need a press pass, but it can be required for tournament play or playoffs.
• 😀 To get a press pass, contact the athletic director or sports information director of the event or state association.
• 😀 When applying for a press pass, be honest and upfront about your intentions to shoot sports and offer a few photos to help promote the athletes.
• 😀 State athletic associations often have specific media application processes that are available on their websites.
• 😀 Press passes can be difficult to obtain for playoff events, requiring proof of affiliation with a legitimate news organization.
• 😀 If you're not affiliated with a news organization, starting your own website or sports blog can help you qualify for a press pass.
• 😀 Press passes provide photographers with special access, such as getting close to the action on the sidelines or even the coin toss in a championship game.
• 😀 Press passes offer 'superpowers' by allowing photographers to approach coaches, players, and officials, and to have closer access than the general public.
• 😀 Having a good relationship with officials and other media members can make it easier to get press passes and access at events.
• 😀 Getting a press pass is a process that may require persistence, but starting with smaller events and building up is a good strategy.

Q & A

Do I always need a press pass to shoot sports?

It depends on the level of sports you're covering. For professional and upper-level college sports, you'll definitely need a press pass. For smaller levels, like junior college or high school, it varies. In some cases, you may not need one, but for tournament play or playoffs, you likely will.

How do I know if I need a press pass for high school sports?

For smaller high schools, a press pass may not be necessary. However, bigger schools and playoff events typically require one. It's best to contact the athletic director of the school or the state athletic association to confirm the requirements.

What should I do first when trying to obtain a press pass?

Start by contacting the state athletic association. They often have a media section on their website with information on how to obtain a press pass. Additionally, reach out to the athletic directors of the schools you're interested in covering.

What information should I provide when requesting a press pass?

Be upfront about who you are, what you want to do, and your intentions. Explain that you're interested in shooting sports and helping promote athletes by providing photos. Offering to give a few photos in return for access is a good approach.

Do I need to be affiliated with a news organization to get a press pass?

Yes, many state associations and high school athletic directors require that you are affiliated with a legitimate news organization or media outlet, especially for larger events like playoffs. If you're not, starting your own sports website or blog can help establish credibility.

Can I get a press pass even if I'm not part of a big news outlet?

Yes, you can start your own sports website or blog to establish yourself as a legitimate news source. This helps you get noticed and qualify for a press pass, even if you're not part of a major media organization.

What do I do if I'm struggling to get a press pass?

If you're having difficulty, try providing evidence of your previous work, such as photos you've taken at local events, or get a letter of recommendation from a coach or athletic director. Being persistent and showing your genuine interest in covering sports can also help.

Do press passes give me special access at events?

Yes, press passes can give you closer access to the action. You may be allowed to roam the sidelines, approach players and coaches, and capture images in areas where general spectators are restricted. This access is particularly valuable for sports photographers.

What are some challenges in getting a press pass for high school sports?

One of the main challenges is proving that you're a legitimate media member. State associations and athletic directors often only provide passes to recognized news organizations. You'll need to demonstrate that you're affiliated with a legitimate outlet or have your own media presence.

What are the benefits of having a press pass for sports photography?

Having a press pass allows you to get closer to the action, such as standing on the sidelines or near the field, making it easier to capture compelling shots. It also helps you build relationships with coaches, players, and officials, which can lead to more opportunities in the future.