How can I gain press access to motoring events?

[Typhon]

I'm not sure if I'm asking in the right place but I figured that someone here might be able to help me out. I normally rely on other people to get me press access into places like Paris Motor Show, British Motor Show, Gumball, etc, but is there any way I can do this myself? I've been looking at the accreditation form for the Geneva Show this year and it asks for a 'press card number'. I've been told that I can go as a freelance photographer by some people but I'm not sure where to find a press card number, or if I need it (or anything else for that matter). Can anyone privide some info please? Thanks

[poah]

you can get press card from th NUJ, I've currently lost mine lol

you have to prove your main earnings are from photography though although I'm a student member.

I gain access to shows etc through magazine accreditation as I work for one

[Typhon]

Ah, I guess there's my problem. I don't really earn anything from photography. I do work for a website but I haven't done much yet

[graham@edinburgh]

Lie

Didn't say that..oh no, not me...look! Badgers!

[nick_bbb]

You can get a press pass as a freelancer but the event organiser will want a letter of commission from a publication

[graham@edinburgh]

nick_bbb said:

You can get a press pass as a freelancer but the event organiser will want a letter of commission from a publication

I'm still trying to figure out how I can word one from the magazine I produce.

I'm sure I can find a link from Pharmacy Management to Formula 1....

[Rednut05]

I only take photo's for myself but being able to blag a press pass to things like the Gumball start (as the railings were an annoyance) would be ace and maybe some places at le mans or the welsh rally, although that isn't as much as a problem as you can just trek to find somewhere. I'll keep reading this thread.

[black5]

The problem with 'blagging' a press pass is how it further restricts the amount available for 'pro's'.

Not saying shouldn't do it, but it does upset 'real' photographers.

The best way is getting a mag commission.

[Typhon]

Hmm. I found an application form for a press card on ppa.co.uk, which doesen't seem too bad (i.e. it doesen't require proof of income). Has anyone heard about this one before? Like I said, I do photography work for a popular (Canadian) car website. On the "Sponsoring Comany name or Magazine title to appear on card" would it work if I put the site down? I'm not really sure how it works, and it does say that it's intended for use in the UK.. Is it worth me trying this out?

[poah]

ask the mag to get you passes. they should know who to contact