gaining press access

[yikes]

hi everyone,

I've become very interested in photographing motorsports lately (well until it became winter, but spring is coming), and at all the races there appears to be photographers on/around the track. How does one go about gaining this type of access. I understand for the most part they are press. Is it impossible for someone like myself to get in? I've particually peen shooting in Ontario, Mosport raceway etc....

Thanks in advance!
Nick

[Mike Panic]

in a nutshell, no - they don't let your average joe just wonder in w/ a camera and take photos... the people that are at these tracks for the larger events are generally there because they are working for a paper. the track, sponsors and racers all need the exposure that the press gives them, but they as a whole tend to be very picky about who they give passes to - if you dont have an association w/ a magazine (and generally the magazine needs to make a request on your behalf) then don't expect to get into the major events.

your best bet would be to check out some info on sportsshooter.com

[yikes]

Figured as much, thanks for the link. More research is needed in my part i guess :)

[IndyJeff]

yikes gaining access to restricted areas at race tracks, for larger national interest events, is becoming harder each year. You have to have a credential request that comes from a legitimate source, such as a magazine, newspaper, wire service, or one of the teams. Some tracks won't give access for sponsor requested credentials because of danger issues. You may be able to get a garage pass and or a cold pit pass from a sponsor. My advice tho would be to steer clear of the hot pit. It is often crowded, and very dangerous. Just last week at Daytona, a car came skidding into the pits, overshot his pit stall and crashed into 4 or 5 photographers. Guys and camera gear were flying every which way. Good thing he wasn't traveling more than maybe 20-30 MPH or someone might have been seriously injured.

Used to be that if you were a legitimate freelancer, and could show past contributions and a client list, that would get you past the credential people. That and proof of insurance. Those days however, are long gone I am afraid.

Best thing to do is contact a local paper and see if they are hiring stringers. Once you get your foot in the door then you make contacts and can find work at other tracks....maybe.