1. Get to know reporters. Offer yourself as someone they can call on for background, commentary and story ideas. Call and ask, "How can I help you?"

2. Start your own TV show on your local cable TV company's public access channel. Air time is free. You pay a minimal amount to rent the camera equipment.

3. Look for photo opportunities. Call the media with ideas, or submit your own good-quality photos and slides, and make them available electronically.

4. Give free classes and demonstrations through adult ed programs, at schools and colleges, or at your own business.

5. Participate in online discussion groups and offer lots of helpful advice. Use a signature file in your e-mail that explains what you do and how you can help solve people's problems. Link to your web site.
For more great free publicity tips see Special Report 30 "Briefs, Fillers & Quizzes: The Shortest, Easiest Articles You'll Ever Write"