1-800-654-9557

How to Become a Press Photographer

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If you are a freelance photographer or journalist you are most likely looking for new opportunities. A possibility is to cover press events. If so, you need press credentials for your venture. And you will need the back up and support of a recognized media outlet. The International Freelance Photographers Organization (IFPO) issued press programs fulfill both of those requirements. Today’s Photographer International (TPI) magazine is the media outlet for IFPO press programs.

Press credentials are required before you can approach most events to gain access. IFPO press programs provide instructions on the tactics for completing an online application or speaking to someone on the phone. Whether you’re at a sports event or happen upon a breaking news event, a media pass is required for you to get up close for the best shots. You can experience the exhilaration of capturing a winning touchdown or breaking news event. When that happens it is highly likely that you can get your work published in  IFPO’s Today’s Photographer International (TPI) magazine and/or other media outlets. Breaking news events do not have photographers and journalists on the scene ….waiting. So if you happen to see a plane crash, fire or a major accident on the highway, your photo or report could be the only one available to news outlets. IFPO provides you with the ‘know how’ to get your story to news outlets if that happens.

If you are not interested in covering press events, you could join IFPO to take advantage of the other programs and services available to lifetime members. Those include getting your work published, how to gain recognition for your work and getting business cards, business forms and other ID’s that announce your specialty in the field.

An investment in one’s professional life is an investment that usually pays off. Is it time for you to get more serious about the freelance photographic or journalistic work that you do? If so, IFPO is here for you. You can reach the IFPO office at 1(800) 654-9557 on M-F 10am -5pm EST and on most weekends and holidays from 11am – 5pm EST.

Simply picking up the phone and having a conversation with a real person is an option available to members if they have questions or need advice. IFPO members will always be able to get assistance, or questions answered. Most concerns that arise outside of normal business hours can be remedied by internet verification which is available 24-7 daily.

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Keeping tabs on your competition is a terrific way to keep on top of your game, discover new opportunities in your field, and network with other innovators and business owners. The International Freelance Photographers Organization is a great resource for photographers interested in this (IFPO). Is it worthwhile to sign up for the IFPO and pay the one-time charge to become a member? When you join The International Freelance Photographers Organization, you have access to what?

Picture the festive garb of Mardi Gras, the Chinese New Year farmer’s markets, or the Fourth of July parades and concerts. Small groups in the street around themed markets or carnivals are also good photo ops to have on hand on public holidays. Get some great shots of these events to look back on and feel the excitement and pride in your heritage.

Freelance photographers from all over the world can benefit from covering political events since they often provide unique access to international press passes and photo ops with political figures, high-end customers, and celebrities. If you have the correct IFPO credentials, you can get into demonstrations, marches, and speeches where significant individuals will be speaking, and you can get some of the most striking pictures of them ever. This is a fantastic opportunity for photographers to share their work and expand their professional networks while also contributing to the coverage of important political events throughout the world.

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