IFPO, how legit are they?

[cybertec69]

I have a question in regards to the International Freelance Photographers Organization, how legit is this outfit, and will their credentials get me into venues otherwise I could not enter with a Camera, thanks.

 

[cybertec69]

has no one heard about them.

 

[azguy]

I subscribed or belonged several years ago. The organization is legit, I guess, but I don't think that their credentials will help you in today's security-minded society. They are mainly in the business of selling books. If you look at the "assignments" that their members get; it is pretty small stuff.
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JohnE
Equipment list in profile

 

[Scott W. McClure]

I'll go ahead and admit to being a member (since it is a lifetime membership) but they have never done me any good. The best way to get "legit" credentials is to ask your local newspaper if they use "stringers" or freelancers. They'll usually give you an ID card from their organization and you'll have the backing of the editor to help get you into events.

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Scott W. McClure

http://www.couriernews.com

'You only get one sunrise and one sunset a day and you only get so many days on the planet. A good photographer does the math and doesn't waste either.'... The Late Galen Rowell

 

[cybertec69]

I'll go ahead and admit to being a member (since it is a lifetime
membership) but they have never done me any good. The best way to
get "legit" credentials is to ask your local newspaper if they use
"stringers" or freelancers. They'll usually give you an ID card
from their organization and you'll have the backing of the editor
to help get you into events.

--
Scott W. McClure

http://www.couriernews.com

'You only get one sunrise and one sunset a day and you only get so
many days on the planet. A good photographer does the math and
doesn't waste either.'... The Late Galen Rowell

--
I also figures local newspaper would be the best option, thaanks again.

 

[John Ricard]

There is NO organziation that can get you into different events. It's that simple.

If you were a sports photographer, you don't have some sort of Sport ID card that is good for different venues. Instead you have to call for every single event and get permission to cover that event.

I have a NYC Press Credential/ID Card that is issued by the NYC Police Department. It is used for ID only. It helps make you look more legit, but it won't get you access to any event.

You need to build a name for yourself in whatever field you are interested in -sports, concerts, cheerleading competitions, or whatever. You do this by attending small, low level events in your field that DO NOT require credentials to shoot. Or you make deals where you trade access to the event for free pictures.

As you build contacts by doing the low level events, you will eventually in a couple of year's time be able to hook up larger events on the strength of your own name. That is the only way to shoot different events.

There is no magic card that will do it for you.