Question for Car fanatics..

[STYLZ]

Quick question for you car fanatics. Have any of you ever taken your prosumer video cameras to a Hot Import Nights or SEMA show? Is a special pass required. Is it allowed without a special pass? If a special pass is required does it cost extra? Any info on this would be appreciated.

Thanks
Larry

[Mike McNeese]

That's iffy - they can stop anyone with a camera as the SEMA show retains all of the photographic rights to everything in the show, including people. They usually have a media day where all of the 'pros' go in to get their shots, but you won't get a 'special pass' if you're trying to get in with the rest of the public.

[Barry_Green]

I shot SEMA once, but I had a press pass. And so did everyone else I saw with cameras there.

You may or may not get away with a little consumer handycam or something like that, but if you show up with a DVX or larger I'm pretty sure they'll stop you.

[STYLZ]

Wow. Thanks gentlemen. Looks like SEMA is a no go. Anyone with experience at Hot Import Nights?

[Mike McNeese]

Probably more of the same...I'm not gonna ask why you want to film it, but you gotta understand that these companies and sponsors put these shows on to make money for them. Unfortunately, they don't like guys like us trying to weasel in to make some videos and money off of their show.

You could always try to contact the production company and give him a hint of your intentions and see if they mind...always best to keep a clean face.

[STYLZ]

Yeah I actually sent an e-mail to Hot Import Nights with my intentions(demo reel) before I started this thread. Stated clearly it was for demo reel purposes only. I definately realize they don't want me making money off them. If they were really smart they would realize public viewing(not for financial gain) would only increase their exposure to the world. Also they might consider charging a higher fee for people who want to bring cameras in. Oh well.

Thanks for the replies