I\'m not a working pro, but an aspiring amateur. I have shot sidelines at DIII football and a lot of games/events that do not require credentials.
But I WANT A CREDENTIAL!
Why do I want a credential? Because that’s the Pros!
Why do kids in high school want to play for the Yankees? To be a Pro!
It’s the goal and everyone wants a quick path to their goals. It may not be the wisest move to jump to the Pro level early, but if you can get a taste it may help you along the way.
I’ll make enemies here by saying this, but I could care less if the pros hate me if I get one before they feel I’ve ‘earned it’.
At the DIII events I shoot I say out of the way of the Pros and I’ve never sold a shot from a team that has a staff Pro. That’s his job and I respect that, but it’s my hobby and my passion and If I work to get the access then I deserve every inch of turf he does.
I think that working photographers are pretty elitist about getting access and shooting sidelines. The post above mine confirms that suspicion.
They seem to disregard your request for tips and support especially if they work in your area. It’s like a Pro Athlete shunning a rookie or charging for autographs. They must forget what it was like to be a fan or desire to be a Pro, so they are unwilling to do the things for the next generation of Pros.
Someday I’ll get a credential and be able to shoot my local pro team, ‘Legitimate’ or not. If I’m there next to you on the sidelines, I belong there.
