If someone is serious about becoming a professional press photographer, then having some or the other kind of official press credential is of utmost importance. No one needs any kind of permission to become a photojournalist, but it still is necessary to be able to identify oneself as a journalist when need arises. Official press passes will give photographers an edge over others when it comes to covering events with complete credibility. It has become a great means to identify oneself as a professional journalist or a press photographer.

A pass is a credential that can also be issued by a particular organization, which can be a concert venue, sports team and exhibition organizers, to name a few. This clearly indicates that an individuals status as a press photographer has been verified by that particular organization. There are a lot of privileges that a press pass showers on photojournalists. But, the exact nature of benefits is gauged by the issuing agency one chooses. A few cards will give a legal recognition to a press photographer, while others will simply ascertain that the person is merely a practicing photojournalist.

There are many places that are closed to the public, but, in case, if there is some event where members of media are admitted, then a press photographer can flash his/her press credentials to get an entry like other journalists. Different cards unfurl different kinds of authorizations, which is why it becomes necessary for press photographers to possess multiple press passes at the same time.
With a press pass accompanying a photojournalist, s(he) can get free access to many other concerts, sports events, film premiers and even get backstage at live performances by artists and plays.

Press Credentials will give press photographers the power to get inside yellow tape areas at an accident or a crime scene, most of the times. This way, the information collected will be authentic and divulge even the minutest details of the incident. Though there are chances that even with a press pass a photojournalist wont be allowed inside the yellow tape area, but without any formal identity even the bleakest of chances wont come to life.

Apart from covering various newsworthy events, they get to enjoy a lot of other benefits like availing major discounts on a number of services and various brands.

A press pass will allow photojournalists to enjoy a lot of freedom. There are different kinds of passes that one can avail and these will work well for them who dont want to make photojournalism as their profession. But, if someone wants to get some space and recognition in newspapers, magazines and the media world, having credentials and memberships from reputable organization is a must.