DSLR into Large Stadia

[joetothphoto]

Okay, I know this has been approached before but I need some fresh responses. I am attending a game as a fan for the first time since Clinton was president and I would like to bring my camera to the game. I don't really care about shots from inside. What I want is to get stuff from outside, fans, vendors, blah blah blah. But the stadium reception says small digital cameras only. Now having been to a few games at prem grounds I notice people are allowed in with large digital cameras. So what experiences do people have either bringing in a EOS-1D and lets say a 24-70mm lens? I dont want to hear your opinions or that I will get beat up by security if i take pics inside. I want to hear from people who have had successes or failures actually bringing a camera in. I dont want to travel 2 hours to get turned away.

Joe

[gkwood]

I know you did not want opinions, well this is a suggestion if you only want to take outside, why not ring the ground in advance and ask the question do they have a policy on brining large cameras into the ground or do they have a secure place were you are able to leave your camera whilst you enjoy the game ??

[joetothphoto]

Nope, that is a suggestion. Your opinion would have been I think you are stupid for trying this and the men in flourescent coats will beat you up if you try. I called the stadium and they said small digitals and for personel use only. I don't really want to argue with these people for the sake of me and the company I work for.

[gkwood]

Thinking on this the last time I was at a prem game ( yes it was Southampton) I wore a large type coat that could have easily accommodated a lens or two & a DSLR body security did not pat me down or any this but this was a couple of seasons ago have things changed , I am sure other here will have been more recently , but I understand your predicament , hope you have an uneventful game 

[Stacas]

If you're taking the 24-70mm in Joe, then I think you'll probably get away with it...sounds silly, but as it's not a white lens, it may seem less conspicuous. I took a Nikon D100 (incl. grip) with 24-120mm lens into the City of Manchester Stadium for an England match a couple of years back and had no problems. I guess the key is to exude confidence if confronted by security / stewards, and if using it inside the ground too, just choose your moments. You thinking of Wembley? S.