Golf - How to Ask?!

Bilko

Bilko

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Robert
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Apologies in advance if this is deemed a daft post, but I really would like some idea what way to go about this.

I've got a number of very good golf courses around me and I'd love to get on the course and take some photographs of the course and golfers.

The problem I have is I don't know how to ask.

I don't want to approach a club the wrong way and ruin a chance of getting some photographs, when there's a chance of getting photographs by asking the right person, the right questions.

As I say, apologies if this is deemed stupid, but I don't want to waste any chances I might have. Of course I understand that they might just say no and that's ok.
 
Go and see the pro of the course (if it has one) and he/she will direct you to their admin dep so that you can ask as many questions as you want.

As for the shots of golfers, there are a few basic rules you need to adhere to for amateur non competition golf.

1, don't stand in front of the golfer (well not too close any way) as you may get hurt..... (I have seen folk hurt when stood behind and to the side also but it is rare.

2, Try not to make too much noise and be patient with them.

3, Wear suitable clothing, may be waterproof trousers etc if crawling on the turf to get that arty shot.

4, Be polite.

5, Whatever any one tells you about not shooting on their backswing or downswing is only referring to if they can hear you. A good long lens and the new silent shutter type cameras will be audibly undetectable to the golfer from 100 yards away. As this does not sound like competition golf, ask the golfer if they mind you shooting their swings when closer - you may be surprised of their answer.

6, Have fun.
 
Rather than asking the club and "shoot strangers" your probably best to speak to any mates who play and see if you can tag along for a walk and shoot them. Less chance of annoying someone and getting booted off the course burning any bridges.
 
Personally I would visit the clubs and explain what you would like to do and ask them if they could help in any way.

You may be surprised by their answer.

EDIT: Looks like Tom posted while I was typing.
 
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I would ring the club and ask to speak to the club secretary.

Advise them you are a photographer intreasted in waking various courses to take some scenic pictures.

Explain you will adhere to the etiquette of golf and not interfer with the people playing or walk onto the tee boxes (where you start the hole) or greens (where you finish the hole).

I would sell the idea by saying you would give a copy of the pics as a thank you.

The last bit is ask if while walking the course (with the permission of the players), could you take some action shoots.

Then you just have to follow a 4 ball around the course that don't mind you taking photo's or action shoots while they pay.

Remember they are paying £1k a year to relax hit a ball and then look for there ball.

Hope that helps

Jason

*Edit same here*
 
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Thanks. I felt a bit silly asking, but glad I did.

Used to play (attempt) golf many years ago, so I sort of know the etiquette bit.

Thanks again for the advice.
 
I approached my own club to shoot around the course and the reply in writing was. Yes, as long as you do not disturb anyone, and you must not take photos of any juniors.
You may have to get written permission from the golf club.
I suggest you write and ask them.
 
And wear proper golf shoes, taking note if there is a no metal spikes rule.
 
Zoomboxer said:
And wear proper golf shoes, taking note if there is a no metal spikes rule.
Click to expand...

I thought you only needed these if playing.

I think walking on the greens would normally be prohibited due to damage etc.

Good luck
 
its a lot more simple than people make out :) Find the website.. find the email.. drop em a message asking if you can take pics for a project... Easy peasy bobs yer auntie.


been there done that :)
 
KIPAX said:
its a lot more simple than people make out :) Find the website.. find the email.. drop em a message asking if you can take pics for a project... Easy peasy bobs yer auntie.


been there done that :)
Click to expand...

Haha! Logically speaking Tony, but I never see logic!

Thanks, onto it now.
 
Result!

That wasn't hard.

I've emailed a number of clubs and just got a couple of invites already.

Thanks everyone.
 
Nice one Robert, well pleased for you.

Hope all goes well. :thumbs:
 
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