Obtain a press pass from your employers if you work for a professional newspaper or magazine.
Contact the press relations department of your local police department if you are a freelance photographer. To obtain a red carpet press pass in New York City, for example, you must supply at least one professional photograph from six or more separate events. All events must have taken place a maximum of two years prior to the date of the press pass application.
Reapply for and update your credentials as often as necessary to stay current with your press pass. Contact the press relations department of your local police force for details.
Set up on the red carpet at least 10 feet from the subject you are photographing. Providing a 10-foot distance allows you to snap full body shots.
Stay up front, right behind any press barricades. Stay in front of television camera crews so you can get clear shots.
Call out to the subject by name and ask her to stop and pose. Addressing the subject personally and politely can encourage her to stop and provide you with a prime photographing opportunity.
Snap as many quality photographs as you can. Frame different shots. Photograph shots that capture the subject head to foot. Include all jewelry and accessories in the picture.
Photograph three-quarter shots -- zoomed-in images that frame the subject from head to knee.
Photograph head shots -- close-up shots of the subject's face.
Power on the flash mechanism on your camera if light is minimal. Aim any camera light attachments above the subject's head to prevent awkward shadows.