Photojournalists Warned Over Rights-Grabbing Credential Agreements
The National Press Photographers Association (NPPA) is alerting photojournalists to increasingly restrictive credentialing agreements, following a dispute with The Gazelle Group over its access terms for event photography.
The controversy began when The Gazelle Group, a major sports coverage firm, initially requested photographers grant the organization an irrevocable, no-cost license to use any photos taken at their events for any purpose except resale. This demand, described by the NPPA as a “rights grab,” sparked concern among photographers and news organizations like Getty Images and the Associated Press. “Demands for the absolute right to profit off our members’ work are even more egregious when coupled with editorial control,” the NPPA stated.
After initial objections on October 12, the NPPA proposed alternative language on October 14, stipulating that photographers retain all rights to their images and The Gazelle Group could request a non-exclusive license for specific uses like marketing. While The Gazelle Group revised its agreement, it still sought access to up to three selected images per event in exchange for credential approval. NPPA General Counsel Mickey H. Osterreicher, Esq., argued that such demands are “strongly objectionable and hostile toward photographers” and potentially violate First Amendment rights by gatekeeping access to newsworthy events. This situation highlights a growing trend of restrictive agreements, as the NPPA has previously challenged similar terms imposed by performers like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.
The NPPA continues to advocate for photographers’ rights and urges journalists to carefully review credentialing forms, warning they can be “predatory.” The organization encourages photographers with concerns to contact them directly at [email protected]. Protecting photographers’ rights is crucial for maintaining an independent press and ensuring public access to information.
The NPPA and involved groups are awaiting further response from The Gazelle Group regarding potential changes to its credentialing agreements.
