As a freelance photographer, one of the best ways to get your foot in the door is to apply for a press pass. A press pass not only allows you access to certain events and locations that you might otherwise be unable to photograph, but it also demonstrates that you are a legitimate professional photographer. In this article, we’ll answer the question of how to get a press pass as a freelance photographer and tell you why it’s a good idea to have one. So read on if you’re interested in freelance photography and would like to learn more about how to cover special events like sporting matches, political gatherings, corporate conferences, and more!
How to Get a Press Pass as a Freelance Photographer and Why It’s a Good Idea
Why you should get a press pass as a freelance photographer - from getting a portrait taken to joining a press pass issuing freelance photographers' organization like IFPO
As a freelance photographer, one of the smartest moves you could make is to secure a press pass. It can open the door to more freelance photography opportunities and give you access to places that may have been previously off-limits. To get your press pass, the first step is getting a professional portrait taken, then joining either an association like the International Freelance Photographers Organization (IFPO) or American Image Press (AI Press). These organizations provide freelance photographers with press card resources and grants, while also granting them timely access to breaking news and various events around the world. With a press pass in hand, freelance photographers benefit both practically and creatively. On one hand, they may gain entry into otherwise restricted areas for high-profile shoots; on the other hand, it helps them build their portfolio by taking photos that their peers can’t.
How to get a press pass as a freelance photographer - the process and what you need
Obtaining a press pass as a freelance photographer requires taking certain steps, including having a portrait or headshot taken, providing identification, and a portfolio featuring some of your best work. Press passes not only give you access to a variety of events, but they can also create opportunities for networking with other professionals in the field and build your name recognition as well. Joining an organization that issues press passes to freelance photographers is also a good idea – not only will you have access to more reliable credentials, but you also have backup assistance should any questions arise about who you are or the purpose of the photo pass.
The benefits of having a press pass as a freelance photographer - access to events, facilities, and people to whom you wouldn't otherwise have access
Being a freelance photographer with a press pass has many benefits, from having exclusive access to sporting events, private events, corporate summits, political speeches, rallies, and cultural or holiday celebrations. Having a press pass opens up doors that wouldn’t be accessible without it, allowing you to experience and capture moments that you couldn’t otherwise witness. Plus, by getting a portrait taken and joining an issuing photographers’ organization, acquiring the press pass becomes more straightforward. There are plenty of great reasons to have one as a freelance photographer, such as better access to bigger and higher-paying clients, access to professional sports players, politicians, or other notable figures, and the ability to compete with other industry leaders in the media field!
How to Get a Press Pass as a Freelance Photographer with IFPO
In conclusion, getting a press pass as a freelance photographer is an excellent idea. It provides access to exclusive events and facilities, gives more opportunities for networking with other professionals in the field, and allows you to build your portfolio by taking photos that your peers can’t. All it takes is having a portrait taken and joining a reputable organization like the International Freelance Photographers Organization (IFPO) that issues press passes to freelance photographers. With several different tiers of press passes available to existing members, IFPO (or American Image Press) offers different levels of access for press and media professionals as well as freelance photographers for all their big events coverage needs!
Are you ready to take your freelance photography career to the next level? Enroll in IFPO today to get started and browse our press pass options here! With a help desk open five days a week, IFPO provides a staffed office to help you build your resume, become published more easily, and generally jumpstart your career.