Photog paying to shoot events

Hey everyone just thought I'd get your thoughts on this...? Have you ever paid to shoot an event?
The state high school athletics association says that freelance photographers can shoot there state championship event (wrestling) for $125. They have official photographers who shoot their event for them. But any freelancer would have pay for permission. Does any other state do this.

Just a quick question, hopefully I can get other thoughts on this...

DM

No I haven't. At state championship events in my state freelancers are restricted unless photographing on assignment for media.

Many states have exclusive relationships for championship game coverage.

Each time the playoffs roll around I get an e-mail from the MaxPreps editors reminding us to check with our state commissions so they know whether galleries can be posted for sale or only for editorial use.

Fortunately, I've not seen this behavior in Virginia.