Can I make my own press pass?

Can I make my own press pass?

I attempted to hire Vistaprint to create a plastic card with my name, face, and the word PRESS on it—a press pass that I designed. But the proof was rejected as “suspicious.”

A press pass is not a government-issued ID. It’s akin to a business card, something that honestly conveys what you do for a living, and something you have to make yourself if you’re a freelancer. A press pass is not the same as media credentials, which are created and granted by an event organizer. The freedom of the press extends to all U.S. citizens—anyone can do journalism.

Ultimately, I was able to print my design through Custom Lanyard.

So why would I want a press pass?
Delta Airlines, for example, will allow media organizations to check excess-weight bags for $50, instead of the usual $150 fee.

“Camera, film, video tape, lighting and sound equipment that is tendered by representatives of network or local television broadcasting companies or commercial film-making companies will be accepted as baggage at the fees noted below. Valid photo ID with company insignia is required.” (Delta Airlines)

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Here’s Nick’s finished video—a very short tutorial on fixing his speaker with a vacuum.