How to Get Media Passes for Events

Introduction

• Speaker: Evan Nguyen
• Topic: Acquiring media passes for concerts, festivals, and events as a videographer/photographer
• Experience: Freelance videographer for 2-3 years, covered events like Coachella, ComplexCon, Rolling Loud
• Objective: Guide on obtaining media passes to work with favorite artists or brands

Understanding Media Passes

• Importance: Most events don't allow professional cameras without a pass
  • Professional cameras: Usually those with detachable lenses
• Exceptions: Some events like ComplexCon allow professional cameras

Types of Media Passes

1. Press Passes

   • For public press and news outlets (e.g., CNN, New York Times)
   • Requires affiliation with an outlet that has influence
   • Application through press application forms or emails
   • Can involve being part of smaller press outlets like school newspapers

2. Guest Media Passes

   • Not officially named but exist for extra team members like vendors or sponsors
   • Offer value such as free photography/videography to gain access
   • Involves sending multiple emails and outreach

3. House Media Passes

   • Most sought after, providing all-access and being paid gigs
   • Typically contracted by agencies
   • Requires extensive networking

Steps and Strategies

Press Pass Acquisition

• Work with an Outlet: Join community or school newspapers
• Application: Submit press forms found in event FAQs or through Google searches
• Email Strategy:
  • Use a professional email address (possibly a domain email)
  • Include a mission statement in your application

Guest Media Pass Strategy

• Research: Identify vendors, sponsors in event lineup
• Email: Offer free service with high value
• Consistency: Requires multiple attempts and follow-ups

House Media Pass Strategy

• Networking: Attend events, meet and collaborate with industry professionals
• Persistence: Consistent posting and outreach

Practical Tips

• Email Templates: Have clear, professional templates
• Domain Emails: Use or create a professional-looking email address
• Irresistible Offers: Free work for exposure

Final Advice

• All methods applicable across different event types (sports, conventions, etc.)
• Check out additional resources on 11percent.net for video/photo presets

Conclusion

• Call to Action: Explore presets on 11percent.net
• Engagement: Encourages questions or comments
• Outro: Thanks audience and promotes future content

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This summary provides a comprehensive guide on obtaining media passes for various events and includes strategies for networking, application, and outreach. The focus is on persistence, professionalism, and providing value.