Journalists can use press passes to get into high profile and controlled areas.There are different passes for certain events.Some organizations require media to wear official press passes, while others don't.The proper planning and connections allow for the acquisition of press passes.
Step 1: It's a good idea to research the event before it happens.
Concert, sports, and other ticket holding events are special events.The press pass gives you free entry and sometimes allows you to go backstage for more coverage.The promoter is separate from the venue that grants the passes.Contact the venue to find out who is in charge of the event.
Step 2: Make sure you have prepared your credentials.
If you want to get a press pass, you need credentials or records that prove you work for a media outlet.You can use previous articles about the event you're interested in.The promoter will benefit from seeing your style of work and demographic as it relates to the event in question.If you want to prove your affiliation with a news source, you can use a work email address.A signature that says your role for the company is a must on your work email address.Gerald Straton is the Photographer and Editor for L.A.An ID produced by either your newspaper or broadcasting outlet may be helpful.
Step 3: You can make contact with the press office.
Try to get in touch as soon as possible.Let them know who you are.A press office can be called public affairs office or public relations office.It is possible that you need to sell them on why they want access to an event and how you would provide them with positive coverage.Information about your publication's followers that will benefit from the coverage will be required of you.A simple but professional email pitch is what you should make.I am an avid photojournalist and I would like to introduce myself.I am interested in applying for a photo pass for the Switchfoot Fest.
Step 4: Get a press pass if you are persistent.
Badges will be issued to members of the media.The issuing authority can be tough on credentials.You should be there to cover the story.It would be a good idea to give them a Badge.The person who issues the badges will have a record of all the people who got access to the event.You should apply for press passes as soon as possible.
Step 5: If you want to keep the badge, you need to get it.
Some photographers keep their badges for a number of reasons.Badges are used as a visual indication that you are an experienced journalist.You can get preferential access to major events by using an old badge.
Step 6: There is a journalist union.
Become a member of the journalist union and you will be able to help photographers and writers cover events.Some unions require you to pay a fee in order to benefit from paying jobs and less hassle acquiring press passes.Most writing unions have a simple application process.They want you to provide samples and proof.
Step 7: You must have a government press pass.
If you are covering stories about crime scenes, exclusive press conferences, or another type of non emergency event with police barriers, you don't need a government press pass.Government issued press passes are usually reserved for officials in the media.The access and eligibility for these types of press passes varies from state to state.Things might be different in Chicago if you are eligible for a press pass.Government press passes end after a certain amount of time.Once you get one, check with your local agency.The government or police can be interviewed without a press pass.
Step 8: The government has a press pass.
If your local city or town issues pass a press pass, do a quick search online.Some smaller towns don't have an office that issues press passes.The passes are usually associated with the police department.There are only new agencies that need to do this.New York requires you to submit at least one article or commentary that has been published in 24 months.You need to show that you have covered at least six in person stories.The police website is where most applications can be completed.
Step 9: You must apply for a pass.
If you work for multiple agencies, you can still get a government pass.You can ask for proof of your employment by writing to your contacts.Some cities require more than one letter of identification.Government passes will only be given to reporters employed by an official news source.Verification of completed assignments from a media outlet should be included in your reference letters.There are different rules for reporters in the police department.
Step 10: Get the pass from your news agency.
Many cities don't accept applications and only issue press passes through official news agencies.You should discuss government press passes with your superiors if you start working for a news outlet.If you are assigned a story requiring one, you will receive one.If your agency pursues events that require government passes, you will get these.
Many reporters and photojournalists use photo editing software to create their own press passes.An official press pass is issued for several events.You sometimes need more information.Many in the journalism field have a photo ID that shows their role.These IDs can't guarantee access to the Paul Simon show.These are to establish your credibility in the field.
Step 12: Get the things.
A lanyard ID holder is the most common way to portray a press ID.Most office supplies stores sell lanyard ID holders.A high gloss paper is needed to print your graphic onto.It is a good idea to have a decent computer and access to photo editing software.Someone will help you take a high quality photo if you don't have a good photo of yourself.
Step 13: The computer has an ID on it.
You can use photo editing software on your computer.The normal size of badges is 3-18” x 2” so create the document to that size.Decide if you want to use the landscape or horizontal orientation.Crop the picture so that it is a clear image of your face only.Next, you should explain that you are affiliating organization.The media can be made in red or black text.You could include if you are a photographer or a journalist.If your media organization has a logo, place it on the corner of the ID or in the background.It should be simple to make it look professional.
Step 14: Print off the identification.
It is best to print on thick paper.Cut out the badge by printing off the ID.When cutting out the outline of the ID, make clean cuts.If you mess one up, print off multiple IDs on the same page.It's important to make sure your printer can handle color printing.
Step 15: Pick up your lanyard.
You are ready to finish everything once you have your cutout of your ID Badge.The lanyard holder has a Badge in it.You are ready to hit the streets.There are references on the back of the card.You can put phone numbers, addresses, and other information on the back.