Creators After Dark 2026 - Press Application

Creators After Dark welcomes journalists, photographers, content creators, and professional media outlets who are seeking to cover the atmosphere, unique programming, and special guests of our 18+ convention. We offer complimentary Press credentials to approved applicants who can demonstrate a genuine assignment or consistent, high-quality editorial coverage relevant to the pop culture, fandom, and adult entertainment space.

By applying for and accepting a Press badge for Creators After Dark (CAD), the recipient ("Media Representative") agrees to be bound by the following Terms and Conditions, in addition to the comprehensive Creators After Dark Anti-Harassment and Code of Conduct Policy.

1. Eligibility and Credential Acceptance
   1. Age Requirement: All Media Representatives must be 18 years of age or older at the time of the event (April 2-5, 2026). Valid government-issued ID will be required for badge pickup.
   2. Editorial Purpose Only: Credentials are provided exclusively for editorial coverage of the CAD event. Complimentary badges will not be issued for the purpose of personal attendance, advertising, sales, marketing, public relations, or promotional activities unrelated to independent news coverage.
   3. Limited Capacity: Press credentials are limited. Submission of an application does not guarantee approval. CAD reserves the right to approve or deny any application at its sole discretion, and all decisions are final.
   4. Non-Transferable: Press badges are non-transferable and must be worn visibly at all times. Lending or selling a Press badge will result in its immediate revocation and prohibition from future CAD events.
2. On-Site Conduct and Limitations
   1. Adherence to Code of Conduct: Media Representatives must strictly comply with the CAD Code of Conduct, particularly regarding harassment and consent.
   2. Photography and Media Consent (CRITICAL): a. Affirmative Consent Required: Due to the nature of this 18+ event, Media Representatives MUST obtain explicit, verbal, affirmative consent from all individuals before taking their photograph, video recording, or audio recording. b. Cosplay is NOT Consent: Consent must be sought even if the subject is in costume or participating in a public activity. c. Private Areas: Photography, video, and audio recording are strictly prohibited in all hotel hallways, private function rooms, restrooms, and any area deemed "off-limits" by CAD staff (including, but not limited to, the Green Room, staff rooms, or restricted-access vendor areas).
   3. No Disruption: Media Representatives must not disrupt panels, workshops, performances, autograph sessions, or any event programming. Interviews must be conducted in designated, low-traffic areas only.
   4. Badge Limitations: A Press badge grants access to general attendee areas only. It does not provide early access, line-cutting privileges, guaranteed seating, priority access to signings, or access to any Guest-only or Staff-only areas.
3. Interview and Guest Protocols
   1. Official Requests Only: All interview requests with confirmed Special Guests, panelists, or high-level staff must be submitted in writing to the CAD PR/Media team at least one (1) week prior to the event. On-site "ambush" interview requests are strictly prohibited.
   2. Guest Privacy: Media Representatives must respect the privacy and scheduling of Guests and not attempt to contact them outside of officially scheduled appearances or pre-approved, escorted interviews.
4. Content Rights and Usage
   1. Free Use of Credential: In consideration for receiving a complimentary badge, Media Representatives grant Creators After Dark, LLC a non-exclusive, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free license to use, reproduce, and display excerpts of any written, photographic, video, or audio content produced at the event for the sole purpose of promoting future CAD events. The Media Representative will retain all copyright and ownership of the original content.
5. Violation and Revocation
   1. Breach of Terms: Any violation of these Terms and Conditions or the CAD Code of Conduct may result in the immediate and permanent revocation of the Press credential without warning or refund, and immediate removal from the event premises.
   2. Reporting: CAD reserves the right to report any severe violation, particularly those involving harassment or unconsenting media capture, to the appropriate authorities.