International Freelance Photographers Organization

[20dnut]

I am investigating starting a small home business shooting sports events locally. In my research I am finding what seems to be many get rich quick schemes. Is the International Freelance Photographers another scam? Here is their home page:

http://www.aipress.com/ (http://www.aipress.com/).

[S230]

To be honest and saying bluntly, their web site looks a bit cheesy. Especially with the flashing "New" on their page. From looking at the web page, it looks like another scam site because just about everything you click on, it would tell just a bit then ask for payment. I personally would stay away from these sites.

[20dnut]

I thought so as well.:rolleyes:
Are there any reputable organizations in which membership shows a higher level of professional interest? Perhaps I am not saying it well.:o As a Nurse there are specialty organizations which give certifications and membership to the organization shows a level of interest and consideration not everyone aspires to. Are there similar photography organizations?

[IndyJeff]

20dnut, here is a good place to start looking, Kodak pro organizations listings (http://www.kodak.com/global/en/professional/resources/offline/organizations.jhtml?id=0.1.30.10&lc=en)

[20dnut]

20dnut, here is a good place to start looking, Kodak pro organizations listings (http://www.kodak.com/global/en/professional/resources/offline/organizations.jhtml?id=0.1.30.10&lc=en)


That is more like it. :D



Not that it is necessary to belong, but it is always good to surround yourself with like minded individuals, which is why this is the best forum around. Thank you very much.

[IndyJeff]

Joining an organization usually doesn't mean much more than you paid your club dues. It can be nice to have them for a resume' if a client wants to know some background on you.

Before joining tho, check it out and make sure that you can get something back for your membership dues, be it info, online classes, seminars insurance program or a referral listing.

Also if just anyone can join for $25 or, if you find one which you must submit a resume' and portfolio but it costs $100, go with the one which you must qualify for. Then if a client asks if you belong to any organizations you can say yes, and it is one for which I had to be qualified not some online, pay your money, and your certified outfit.
Being qualified and accepted is more impressive than ability to pay membership dues.

[charlesu]

On the rare occasions I see their ad (I think it is in Pop Photo) I just crack up. I can just see someone presenting the credentials at the next inauguration or maybe the Super Bowl. ;)

[LadyHawk]

I made my own "Photographer" ID card in Photoshop. Not to get to the next inauguration or superbowl... but because my picture and address on an ID might help eliminate some concern on the part of parents when I aim my camera at their children.
Now I look official and, because I didn't fall for an on-line scheme, smart.:D

[MediaMagic]

I got the 'Press' windshield sticker, but it keeps getting finger prints all over it.

[IndyJeff]

Anyone wanting an offical Press ID & Pass can PM me for one. The cost is $15 US and I will make one up and send it out to you ASAP. It may not get you into the White House or along the ropes at a Hollywood movie premier or the sidelines of the Super Bowl but, it is as good as any you will get from IFPO.


For an additional $20 I can get you a brown hat with a brim band that has a card that says PRESS, just like in the old movies. For crumbling, creases and that extra worn look add $5.00


Bloo Dog, you want to be my first order? LOL

[PhotosGuy]

Bloo Dog, you want to be my first order? LOL Let me raise the ante on that to...

[IndyJeff]

I already have one. You mean that won't get me into anything either?


LOL Oh but mine will get you in. You'll look real offical. I have your hat size in stock now too.

[IndyJeff]

It'll get me in?

IT'LL GET ME INTO WHAT!?


Whatever you want and maybe some trouble, which you can then post one of them interesting stories on here about your experience.


Come on, you know you want a hat just like Kolchack had on the Night Stalker TV movies. It would look great on you!!!

[daredevil]

Hi, I'm brand new here, but the IFPO post caught my eye so I thought I'd share, since our experience if fairly recent.

My husband and brother-in-law each signed up for IFPO a few years back. My bros-in-law for the full-blown deal and my husband for the basic.

Neither of them has really received much from them. No monthly magazine to be found, and they're generally hopeless!

My brother-in-law didn't use the IFPO to get anywhere in his photography - he's not a real go-getter and seems quite happy just shooting local weddings. My husband on the other hand likes to push the limits a little, so the IFPO "press card" gave him the "confidence" that he needed to apply and get into a few events.

Frankly, he's abandoned using them - they never return people's calls if you're trying to get into an event, and they end up making you look like a hopeless idiot!

With a little imagination, a computer, printer and laminater you could probably do a better job that anything IFPO has to offer.

[Steve Parr]

Oh, c'mon now... They have to be legit.

They have hats!!!!!

http://www.aipress.com/press/freehaticon.jpg

Hot damn! Where do I sign up??

Steve

[Steve Parr]

I made my own "Photographer" ID card in Photoshop. Not to get to the next inauguration or superbowl... but because my picture and address on an ID might help eliminate some concern on the part of parents when I aim my camera at their children.
Now I look official and, because I didn't fall for an on-line scheme, smart.:D

I have a couple of backstage passes hanging off of my camera bag. Believe it or not, it gets me into clubs without paying the cover, which is something that SoCal clubs are loathe to do...

Steve