i was out on the street shooting...

the best way to learn is by getting thrown in the deep end. thats what i do

i wonder what the pay is for free lancers

Not to come over all worldly wise here, but a stranger saw you with a camera and sold you a story. Just be careful you check this out and make sure he is genuine.

It's simply enough to check out and be certain who you are dealing with.

If it is (and it most likely is), then I agee that you should grab it with all your worth.

Graham

don't look a gift horse in the mouth.
have a go and if you don't like it well at least you made a discovery.

Keep in mind, photojournalism involves very different standards than most other areas of photography. The quality of images printed in newspapers is limited more by the high-speed web printing process than by the sharpness of the image itself. Don't worry that you don't own a bunch of "L" glass or a 1-series camera.

Take this opportunity and learn as much as you can!

thanks guys! im going to follow up on it when i get home from vacation

Have you ever opened a newspaper? Believe me, if you were taking pictures of cars for a photographic effect, you are good enough. Besides if they offer you some sort of job, you wouldn't be full time or get the big stuff, but you could make some good money to buy more gear. Which hey, isnt that worth it?

I wouldn't worry about that too much, they are asking people on the street which means they aren't exactly being fussy or expecting to get world class photographers. Just be up front about your abilities and say that you are more than willing to learn and put your best into the work that comes your way.

One thing to keep in mind, stand your ground on pay and don't do it for free, remember they approached you, they need you and that doesn't come free.

most of all good luck and i hope it works out

Do your homework.

I suggest you browse the "War on photographers" transcripts:

http://www.editorialph​otographers.com

I was taking a photography class and needed to do some photojournalism shots. I contacted the local paper and showed them some of my work. That has led to me submitting shots to them, getting paid as a freelance photographer, and loving it.

GO FOR IT.

Take care,
Harry

If you think you aren't capable yet of what you have to do being on your own for a paper, why not ask if a staff photographer of them does need you as assistant?

Tons of stuff to learn this way!

Forget about it! Why would you want to get paid for doing something you love? Stick with your regular job and stay miserable like everybody else.

the papers here don't have equipment to use - it's like turning up at a construction site without a hammer... tools of the trade.

in any event, go for it. nothing to lose and experience to gain. it's a great feeloing when you see your pictures published - even when they don't give you credit for the shot.

haha im only 19, no job

Then what have you got to lose? Let us know what you decided.