But while Burgess considers himself a local, he doesn't claim Sydney as his turf, although he hopes to have the geographical edge. And it's not all five-star accommodation and champagne lunches for those shooting. Both places provide photographers quick access to events and keep them close to the action. Virtually on-call 24 hours a day, photographers at the Olympic Games can expect two weeks of existing on less sleep than they're used to and working longer hours than they thought they could. Even more worth it if you're a freelancer hoping to catch the big one.
Freelancers have to supply examples of their work and a history of published photos.
They require at least some link to a major publication. In other words, millions of would-be photographers will not end up accredited for the roughly 250 slots. And with such major worldwide agencies as Associated Press , Reuters and Agence France Press claiming first place, even those slots are limited. Moreover, accreditation brings expectations. In the real-life drama of the Olympic Games, sports photographers do not get a second chance.