08/06/2026
Hear me out. Just thinking about making this post has given me anxiety for months.
Years ago, I started taking pictures of my kids during their sports activities, which turned into taking pictures of their teammates and then sharing them with their families and the community. The sideline has become one of my favorite places, where I can get lost doing something I love and then I get to share the best parts seen through the lens. I also feel that the kids work so hard for their sports, they deserve more than just one picture day with one standard individual and team photo. I’m also in the stage of motherhood where it’s hitting me how quickly this time passes, and having these moments captured means SO much.
Now comes the part I’ve dreaded for months...
Being on the sideline requires MSHSAA credentials. Any game beyond the regular season needs credentials for sideline access. I’m also seeing more posts saying schools may start requiring them for regular season games too. Without that access, capturing action shots will be tough! Whether schools enforce these rules or not, I really don’t want to risk it. I’m not affiliated with Mid-Buchanan as a photographer (just a mom), I’ve always paid for my own MSHSAA credentials since my child entered high school, but last year MSHSAA doubled the cost to $500 annually. I’ve stressed, brainstormed, and gone back and forth about this, and while I hate asking for money to keep my credentials, I have to consider the costs of maintaining my camera, lenses, and software to produce quality images. I also recognize that I’m trying to run a business, improve my work, and deliver good images.
After much thought, I’ve reluctantly decided to make some changes starting this fall season. From now on, instead of posting my photos publicly, those with an “ACCESS PASS” will receive access to a full gallery without copyright. I will be committing to attending at least five games/matches for sports that fall during the majority of the same time my kids sports are scheduled or that have a shorter season. Those sports will have a lower rate since I won’t be able to attend as many games/matches, which means fewer photos for the season. I’ll still do my best to capture as many shots as I can of every athlete. If you know my work, you know I follow the action closely but also try to capture everything going on around the sport.
This decision hasn’t been easy, and it truly weighs on my heart, as I’ve always put families, especially the kids, first. I understand how expensive things can be, and I’ve always tried to keep that in mind. If you have questions, please reach out to me. My phone is always on.
Thank you for your understanding,
Kelsey
K. House Photos
