press pass, what should i do? help

[dou_b_14]

ok, so i sent an email to a local station asking if they had a staff photographer to cover events. They replied saying they didnt and want to know what i propose. My question is, what should i ask for?

I'll be getting a press pass for sure, but im scared to ask for to much and then not get the job. The other thing is, im scared to ask for to little and they blow me off thinking i dont know what im doing.

I was thinking, since i'd be able to cover almost all the major concerts and events for them, there might be a chance to sell the images to magazines or other websites. Are the chances of this good if the images are worth it?

I was thinking, get the press pass, ask for atleast my gas and meals compensated, have fun, shoot images, meet some connections, and maybe sell some images to magazines. Not sure if this is a resonable idea lol. Or should i just ask for a regular hourly rate like they pay their staff? and all of the above.

[londonblue007]

You can always start high, and then tack on the comment that your rates are "negotiable", which gives them the ability to not blow you off. Or, if they say no to the high price, you can go lower.

Its like selling a car.... I think....

[bacchanal]

You need to define usage terms. If you're planning to be able to sell images yourself you need to make sure that you retain the copyright and that they are only allowed to use the images on a limited basis (commercial use / no resale).

[narlus]

Originally Posted by dou_b_14

I was thinking, since i'd be able to cover almost all the major concerts and events for them, there might be a chance to sell the images to magazines or other websites. Are the chances of this good if the images are worth it?

depends on what usage/waiver the band makes you sign.

[dou_b_14]

thanks everyone...great advice. ill take everything that was mentioned and use it! thanks again

[sspellman]

In my experience, radio stations do not pay photographers directly. There are plenty of photographers who will provide free services in exchange for access to special events, or they ask interns to do the photography. It can be fun to cover radio events and concerts, but it is rarely a source of real income. You will also find that most major concert artists will force all photographers to sign a release to confirm that the pictures taken will only be used by the media requesting the pass. This would eliminate your ability to sell the images to magazines as well. Smaller artists/venues are usually free of restrictions.

You could offer to do their concerts and events for something very small $50, but I would be surprised if you got even that.

-Scott

[Compact Diss]

I know of two radio stations in my area who use photogs, but as far as I have been told, they pay them nothing.

[narlus]

Originally Posted by Compact Diss

I know of two radio stations in my area who use photogs, but as far as I have been told, they pay them nothing.

however...one of the local stations also publishes the large weekly (wfnx/the phoenix), and they do pay for assignments (whether it's for coverage for a station-sponsored event or otherwise).

[DDCSD]

One of the radio stations in this area told me that they are only allowed to use photographs from the concerts if their jocks are in the photos.

Seemed strange to me.

[narlus]

Originally Posted by DDCSD

One of the radio stations in this area told me that they are only allowed to use photographs from the concerts if their jocks are in the photos.

Seemed strange to me.

photoshop 'em in on stage.

[DDCSD]

Originally Posted by narlus

photoshop 'em in on stage.

Brilliant!

I could put the morning girl's head in the background of all my shots so they could use them!

[johnms88]

Originally Posted by DDCSD

One of the radio stations in this area told me that they are only allowed to use photographs from the concerts if their jocks are in the photos.

Seemed strange to me.

Someone has no idea what they are talking about. Probably talked to an armchair "stayed at a holiday inn express last night" copyright attorney.

Unless they meant they CHOOSE not to, not they "cant".

[DDCSD]

Originally Posted by johnms88

Someone has no idea what they are talking about. Probably talked to an armchair "stayed at a holiday inn express last night" copyright attorney.

Unless they meant they CHOOSE not to, not they "cant".

The station manager has told me this in person, and here is a quote from an email.

"Thanks for the offer but, unfortunately we can't use photos of any bands on our website unless our jocks are in the photo."

I don't know if he is simply mis-informed or if it the broadcasting companie's policy, a deal with the promoters or what.

I suspect it has to do with fear of being sued for implying that the bands endorse the radio station and fear of being sued for using their likeness for commercial gain.

It very much surprised me as well.