How to Be a Paparazzi

In Hollywood there are few more controversial figures than those photographers known as the paparazzi. They are despised for invading the private lives of celebrities, while at the same time rewarded for feeding the general public's insatiable thirst to view the private moments of the stars. Some are even handsomely rewarded, with candid celebrity shots raking in small fortunes for the nosy paparazzi.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Assemble a small arsenal of quality cameras, including a single-lens reflex (SLR) with a telephoto lens for shooting from a distance and an easily concealable compact camera for sneaking shots in restricted areas.

2. Research which celebrities are in high demand at the moment. Photos of such celebrities will bring top dollar, so find out the places and hot spots they frequent.

3. Avoid the crowds of other paparazzi, particularly at premieres, club entrances and red carpet events. You are looking to get the one picture that nobody else has, not the one that 100 other photographers have.

4. Be patient and alert. You need to wait for a photo of that perfect private moment that is going to get you the most money from the tabloids. Anything that you wouldn't normally see a celebrity doing, especially embarrassing moments, are the shots to look out for.

5. Contact the tabloid publications via the Internet once you have a shot you're convinced they will want.

6. Protect your ownership of the photographs by applying a watermark to the picture using photo editing software before you send copies off to the tabloids for inspection.

7. Shop the photos around to competing tabloids to see which one will offer you the best price for your efforts. Then negotiate an agreeable price and be sure to read the fine print of any contract the publisher asks you to sign.

Tips & Warnings

• Digital cameras are the more affordable way to go in the long run, even though they are initially more expensive. The money you will save in development costs will make up for the difference in price with a less expensive standard film camera.

• There are agencies that serve as liaisons to the tabloids that you may choose to deal with. But keep in mind that they will be expecting a portion of your earnings as commission. If you think the shot will garner a huge payoff, it may be to your advantage to try and contact the tabloids directly.

• There are privacy laws that must be observed by the paparazzi at all times. Photographs taken while on private property are illegal, and tabloids will not pay for these photos. It is in your best interest to read up on all the laws in regards to privacy rights.

• Be prepared to possibly have celebrities lash out at you verbally and, occasionally, physically. If this happens remain calm, continue taking photos of the assault and get the names of any witnesses to the crime. Then call your lawyer.