What would you do?

[ericw]

A friend from college , who I haven't talked to in a while, was apparently reading my photoblog which is linked from myspace. She sent me a message saying that the organization she works for (charity or non-profit or something) is having a run/walk fundraiser event and they were lookign for a photographer (for free).

A. I'd like to do something charitable

B. I'd like to help out a friend

C. I have no idea how to photograph something like this

D. It would require some travel

E. This isn't really my type of thing

What would you do?

EDIT: I guess this potentially could help get my name "out there"?

[wdogg40]

Personally, I would do it because it's an excuse to get out and take some shots. I would mostly focus on taking photos of the interactions between people before/during/after the run/walk. Also they probably want pictures of any awards given out.

What is considered "some travel"? That seems to be the only real problem. I think you can get around the fact that you are not sure how to shoot it and maybe it's really not your type of thing because of how uncomfortable you are with not knowing who you should photograph it.

You could at least try it and then know for future reference that you either like or don't like doing running charity events.

That's all I have for now.

[crunch]

A. Commendable
B. Of course, who wouldn't
C. Multiple ways to approach this- look on flickr, read a book, or just do your best
D. If they can't pay for your time, perhaps they can pay (even a portion) for your travel?
E. Nothing like getting out of your comfort zone to learn a new skill or two!!

[ericw]

Sounds like the concensus is to go for it. I guess I could probably do it competently... It's in Baltimore, so probably an hour and a half away.

[fletch]

Originally Posted by ericw

Sounds like the concensus is to go for it. I guess I could probably do it competently... It's in Baltimore, so probably an hour and a half away.

Get them to pay your expenses. Most charities will do this and I'm sure there is probably some tax benefits to be had somewhere (not that I know how it works in the US). If they aren't even able to pay expenses maybe you can consider your costs (including time) a donation to charity for tax reasons.

Then you aren't totally out of pocket.

[sk66]

Originally Posted by fletch

Get them to pay your expenses. Most charities will do this and I'm sure there is probably some tax benefits to be had somewhere (not that I know how it works in the US). If they aren't even able to pay expenses maybe you can consider your costs (including time) a donation to charity for tax reasons.

Then you aren't totally out of pocket.

Absolutely. You can put a "market value" to your work and write it off as a charitable donation....

[jprime84]

depends.. how hot is she?


Actually, an hour and a half drive is not too bad for an event to shoot. Sounds like it could be a good cause, and their expectations are not huge, so it could just be a fun learning experience. Plus, you get the chance to catch up with old friends.

[mfreg]

depends.. how hot is she?

lol

I was going to ask if shes cute, but I thought I'd get torched....

[jprime84]

get some business cards to hand out if people ask

[mcdeegan]

Baltimore isn't that far from Hagerstown and it is an easy drive (my one way commute to DC used to be longer on a good day ). Plus, if you like this type of event and get some good photos you might be able to pick up a number of other similar events in this bike, run, walk mecca. There are any number any given weekend. I would give it a try.

Restaurants on the Inner Harbor and in Little Italy in Baltimore are great too!!