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View Full Version : How to get sideline position to shoot sports


greekgeek
09-17-2009, 03:57 AM
I would really like to hone my sports photography, but it seems to be an impossible task. You basically have to be on field/court or on the sidelines to get real sports photos. The problem is that no one will let you do that. Does anybody have ant suggestions as to how to go about this? I have asked out local high school athletic department and they won't let me do it because of "Privacy" matters?
eyerkish
12-03-2009, 05:52 AM
Hi Greekgeek,

I don't know if this will help or not, but you may want to look into doing some volunteer work as a coach or assistant for some local sports teams and as you build rapport with them, they may allow you to take photos as a way to help promote their cause. You may also consider finding some recreational leagues where you can go and practice your skills. If you are so inclined, you may want to try and join a team and once they know you, they may let you photograph the team in action. It's amazing how privacy concerns seem to fade once people become comfortable with you.

Good luck to you.
johnnya
12-19-2009, 04:53 AM
Just a thought but you might try and approach your "local" community based newspaper. I don't know about you but we have a once a week "community paper" that comes out midweek. Tell them your interests and that you would like to do some sports photography for them for free. They will more than likely issue you a "press pass" so you can go on the field or press box for overhead shots. I have a friend that approached a local radio station and did color commentary for the local Jr. Hockey team. He also got passes for the 1993 World Series to cover it for them.
greekgeek
12-20-2009, 04:07 PM
This sounds like a very good idea that I never thought of. We do have a local/weekly paper. Thank you for the great tip.
johnnya
12-21-2009, 05:43 AM
Your welcome greekgeek. The friend I am speaking of ended up fast tracking his broadcasting career.
I have a theory. You will never know if you don't ask. The worst someone will say is no :( Then you attack plan "B". I believe in most cases. (like the one you are interested in) If you are offering a free service that will benifit you and help you, most people will jump at the opportunity.
Good luck. Let us know if it works out for you :)