Aug. 29 – Sep. 2, 2024 in Atlanta, GA Buy

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Media & PR Resources

Because even Superman talked to Lois Lane

Media Relations

The Dragon Con Media Relations Department exists to spread the message that Dragon Con is a unique event of fun, inclusion, and safety. With an all-volunteer staff, the Media Relations team coordinates access to Dragon Con events, guests, and behind-the-scenes activities for authorized and credentialed media. Our department also helps provide background information, preparation materials, scheduling, and other assistance to authorized and credentialed media to report on Dragon Con.

Our department is here to assist members of the press and other media personnel by:

• Reviewing and vetting media badge requests
• Providing press kits
• Managing the Media Relations Room (Greenbriar Room at the Hyatt)
• Helping the press to get the most out of Dragon Con
• Addressing issues and concerns during Dragon Con
• Providing post-convention follow-up
• Building long-term relationships with the media

Media Access

When you apply for media access, please consider the following:

• Media Access is for professional reporters and media that provide significant national, local, or genre exposure
• If you have covered Dragon Con for the previous convention, ensure you have provided copies of your coverage to Media Relations
• Your application will be thoroughly vetted, and you may be contacted to discuss the nature of your coverage
• You may be asked to provide additional documentation

You will not qualify for Media Access if you are:

• Bloggers or Podcasters with limited distribution
• Social Media Influencers and YouTubers with less than 250,000 followers/subscribers across platforms
• Individuals who work in non-reporting roles for media outlets
• Online “networks” or umbrella organizations which house multiple outlets, podcasts, etc.
• Convention photographers not on assignment from a media outlet
• Freelance reporter/photographer not on assignment from a media outlet
• An individual or outlet granted prior year media access who cannot provide proof of coverage

FAQs

What does Media Access allow me to do?

  • Media Access badges are extended as a courtesy of Dragon Con.
  • Media Access provides complimentary access to all four days of Dragon Con.
  • Dragon Con is a fan convention, not a media convention and in all situations fans will be given priority.

What does Media Access not allow me to do?

Your Media Access badge DOES NOT allow:

  • Early or special access into Dragon Con panels, venues, or ticketed events
  • Guaranteed seating or admittance to panels and events
  • The ability to cut lines
  • Free access to any events requiring an additional ticket

What are the requirements for a Dragon Con Media Badge?

Working journalists/photographers over the age of 17 that fall under one of the below categories may register for a media badge.

  • Print Media & Newswire Reporters (may be asked to send examples of work)
  • Journalists/Photographers on Assignment (must provide assignment letter)
  • Broadcast (TV & Radio) Journalists & Photographers (will need ID/Business cards when picking up your badge)
  • Online Reporters (will need to provide URL showing a depth of coverage)
  • You are required to apply using your legal name.
  • You are required to apply using a distinct email address.
  • You are required to apply under one (1) media outlet. If your reporting will appear in multiple formats, please apply under the largest outlet.
  • If you are a freelance photographer or journalist you are required to show proof you are currently on assignment from a media outlet to cover Dragon Con. An assignment email or letter will suffice.
  • You are required to report on Dragon Con to be allowed media access in the future.
  • We reserve the right to approve only outlets we feel will be able to convey the spirit of Dragon Con in a professional and respectful manner.

Please note:

  • Approval in previous years does not guarantee approval in the current year.
  • You may be asked to provide samples of previous coverage if we cannot find significant proof through our own vetting.

Who does not qualify for a Dragon Con Media Badge?

  • Employees of media outlets who do not work in an editorial capacity will not qualify for a media badge. If you would like to attend the show as a guest of the convention, please apply here.
  • Online “networks” or umbrella organizations which house multiple outlets, podcasts, etc.
  • Freelance photographers and journalists not on assignment with a media outlet.

Is there a form I need to complete?

Yes, along with providing the credential requirements, you will also need to complete the Registration Application online before it closes in August.

I am a member of a team, can we fill out a group application?

Each team member must fill out an individual application. Each team member must have a unique email address or the applications will be declined.

Dragon Con understands there are times when a team will be assigned to cover the convention. However, space is limited, and being part of a team does not automatically approve each individual. Dragon Con reserves the right to limit the number of Media Access badges provided to each organization.

Are Media Access Badges Transferable or Resellable?

No, Media Access badges are not transferable or resellable. Individuals caught selling or loaning out their Media Access badge will be barred from applying for and receiving Media Access in the future.

How do I check the status of my application?

You will receive notification regarding your application status approximately 2 weeks after the application is received.

How do I change information on my media registration?

To make changes to your registration information, please email the Dragon Con Media Relations Team at mediarelations@dragoncon.org.

I missed the registration deadline, is it possible to register on-site?

Onsite registration is reserved for members of local broadcast media and nationally significant online media. There will be no onsite registration to add reporters, replace reporters, or to register new reporters for all other media.

I was not approved for Media Access. Can I still cover Dragon Con for my outlet?

YES! Reporters are still able to cover the show for their outlet, but must purchase their own badge and are not able to conduct any guest interviews at Dragon Con. We encourage you to submit your Dragon Con coverage when you apply for Media Access the following year.

How do I get my badge?

Badges may be picked up at Media Relations, located at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in the Greenbriar Room. Photo identification must be presented on-site in order to obtain a badge.

Media Relations Office Hours:

    • Thursday 2:00 pm – 9:00 pm
    • Friday 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
    • Saturday 8:00 am – 4:00 pm
    • Sunday 9:00 am – 3:00 pm
    • Monday 10:00 am – 12:00 pm – badges may not be picked up on Monday.

How do I get in touch with you?

You can contact Dragon Con Media Relations at mediarelations@dragoncon.org.