At The Match ...Pitchside!

weephillie

weephillie

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Phil Monk
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I know this is running before I can walk but what the hell!

I am studing on a photography course and my main aim at the end of it, is to become a sports photographer. I would most like to cover football as it is a big passion of mine. The problem is, I don't really know where to start.

I was at the Sunderland v Blackburn game today and at the end of the game I managed to speak to one of the photographers pitchside. I asked about how I would go about getting into that field. He said he worked for an agency who also sorted out his press pass and other documentation needed to gain access into the ground as a photographer. I was lead to believe that he was 'employed' or at least paid by the agency to take photos for them. As I have no experience in this field, it is very unlikely I will be taken on by an agency.

Here's where I'm hoping someone can help me out. Does anyone know if it is possible to be taken on by an agency where I could offer my services for free. In return for my images they would sort out all the relevant paperwork to get me in there and thus giving me valuable work experience.

Have I got a chance or am I living in a dream world?
 
Have I got a chance or am I living in a dream world?
Click to expand...

I'm sorry I can't answer your queries but there's always a way and unless you have dreams, how are they ever going to come true?
Good luck :)
 
Thanks KIPAX, a very interesting read. I now feel confident that there will be a way in ...somehow!
 
Have I got a chance or am I living in a dream world?

yes you have..
My son did at Ibrox with Rangers(3 times)..e-mail your club- Sunderland and explain what you want too do..they should give you a press pass for the day ...and according to my son its a great experience..he is doing a Commercial Photography Degree and wants to take up sports photography like you......good luck..
 
It is possible. Dont forget that technically, your local FA will be part of the national FA set up and sat/sun morning football can count. As Kipax says you have to pass a panel which looks at invoices, print tear sheets and quality. You may then be awarded an FA License which is a read in itself.

Go for it. I did it that way with my agency and had no problems.

The big agencies have the market sewn up so it may be worth you looking towards staffing for someone, as long as your work is good enough.:thumbs:
 
I know you said its just for experience.. But keep in mind that if you did get into a league or premiership game.. the pictures would not belong to you and there is very little you can do with them other then hand them over to the licence owner.. Getting your own licence is rare.. possible but very rare. as per my article. working for an agency or a club will not count towards your own licence.
 
Thanks for the input, I'll keep you informed of any developments.
 
Go and get some experience by shooting local games, build up a portfolio of sports, not just football and never offer your services for free. You will never be taken seriously and if you do become full time how will you pay the mortgage?
 
Try your local paper, offer to cover the games for them if they will get you in to them, depending on how many photographers they have and how many local games there are they may be glad of your help and sort something out.
 
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