How can I approach an indie wrestling promotion about photographing ringside?
Asked 10/21/2014
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2 answers
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I’d like to photograph indie wrestling events from ringside with my Canon 60D, but I don’t have prior professional wrestling shots. I’m not trying to pitch myself as a hired photographer yet; I’m mainly looking to build a portfolio and would still expect to pay normal admission unless they offer media access.
What’s the best way to approach the promoters or show runners? Should I offer them copies of the images for their own use, and do I need any kind of release or copyright statement up front? Also, is ringside access something a newcomer should even ask for, given the safety and experience concerns?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
11y ago
2 Answers
1
just approach them and ask if you can take some shots for your portfolio. Tell them in return you'll give them copies of all the shots for their own use.
Where you may run into trouble is being right outside the ring can be a dangerous place. you really need an insiders understanding of what's going on to know how to stay out of the way if you're going to be ring side. You may think you're lined up for the perfect shot but that's when the wrestler comes over the top rope and lands right on your camera snapping the lens right off the mount, giving you a black eye and severely cutting the wrestler.
This would not be a good scenario.
Originally by user34119. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user34119
11y ago
0
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Start by approaching the promoters directly and clearly offering them something useful: photos for their promotion and copies of your images for their own use. If you’re new, positioning it as portfolio-building rather than “hire me” is reasonable.
That said, ringside access isn’t just about permission. It can be dangerous, and you need to understand the flow of wrestling well enough to stay out of the way and avoid injury to yourself, performers, or your gear. Promoters may be reluctant for that reason alone.
Also remember that simply asking for a ringside spot may not be enough if they already have experienced photographers. You need to explain what value you bring, or consider contacting an existing event photographer to ask whether they need assistance.
A formal copyright or release document usually isn’t the first issue to solve. The bigger concerns are access, safety, and whether the organisers actually need your photos. Make your offer simple, be upfront about your experience level, and be prepared that they may prefer someone with proven sports/event work.
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