Wrigley Field and Cameras

[randerson07]

A vendor of mine at work is taking me to a game tomorrow, I scoured cubs.com and it says video and still cameras are allowed so that sounds good, but im taking a train and if i cant get my camera in have no place to leave it so I want to be sure.

Has anyone had any Problems getting in with an DSLR? Longer Lens?

Thanks
Ryan

[dAndrickPhoto]

I think you should carry the long lens in your jacket. I know it might sound weird, but it actually works. Put the sensor cap on your camera and carry the lens in your jacket. Therefore they'll see a small camera they won't be able to see your long lens. Another thing you can do is keep it in your pocket again and bring along your 17-50 so you can take pictures with your friend or whatever suits you.

[randerson07]

I probably wont take many pics at the game, but im taking the train downtown from about 50 miles away and would like to get some shots in the city.

Ill try that keeping the lens separate from the camera though.

[SMP_Homer]

print that section of the site, bring it with you... if they give you a hard time, tell them you checked first and didn't see anything that prevented you from bringing your gear
given more time, I'd say email the Cubs, and ask... then print and bring that too!

[jsnoah]

I know it isn't Wrigley... but the Yankees let you in as long as you don't interfere with other fans at the game... You can't have a monopod obviously. I bring in a 70-200 f2.8 IS to the games... New York has to be a bit more strict wouldn't you think??

[Larry Kriesel]

Last year I recieved this response for the metrodome in Minnesota but it's the MLB that controls photos

Mr. Kriesel,
The NFL/ MLB create the policies is regards to camera's and the use of. They define a professional camera as one that has a lens length of 6" or more. The reason is two fold as to why. One is to prevent fan obstruction and two, deals with the rights to photograph; which the leagues control. Therefore, professional camera's and video camera's are not allowed; other than by the media.
Dan Twaddle
Security Manager
HHH Metrodome
612.335.3325

I still am having a hard time with this one

[malevy]

wow these people are getting nuts with there restrictions.. I usually will walk up to the terrace and shoot from there as you can get close to home plate regardless of where your sitting.. A family member does security for the ravens football and also the orioles so i am asking him if he can get me on the field. he is friends with the owners and got us front row seats last year so that would be an awesome experience.. i would probably feel a little out of place but who cares its only for 3 hours..

Last year I recieved this response for the metrodome in Minnesota but it's the MLB that controls photos

Mr. Kriesel,
The NFL/ MLB create the policies is regards to camera's and the use of. They define a professional camera as one that has a lens length of 6" or more. The reason is two fold as to why. One is to prevent fan obstruction and two, deals with the rights to photograph; which the leagues control. Therefore, professional camera's and video camera's are not allowed; other than by the media.
Dan Twaddle
Security Manager
HHH Metrodome
612.335.3325

I still am having a hard time with this one

[dmwierz]

but it's the MLB that controls photos

This is not really correct. Each team is responsible for their own security. MLB gets involved with image rights, but even then, each team sets their own policies.

And, whatever anyone tells you on this site (especially as it pertains to another venue and club) makes absolutely no difference. The only people who really count are the Cubs team and the security person who is at the gate you enter.

From the Cubs' site:

Cameras/Video Equipment: Visitors are welcome to bring video and still cameras into the ballpark; however, tripods are not allowed in the seating areas. Recordings may be used for personal viewing only. Any other use, distribution or commercial use is prohibited. Fans may not distribute any copyrighted game information without permission of the Chicago Cubs.

Bags

The following items will be permitted:

* Bags, purses, fanny packs and backpacks smaller than the size limit 16" x 16" x 8"
* Small soft-sided coolers
* Strollers
* Wheelchairs


My experience as a fan at Wrigley has been, as long as it fits in the 16x16x8 bag, you can bring it in. I've taken a pro body and a Sigma 120-300 f.2.8 in a backpack, but again, that's me. Regardless of what my experiences were, and actually independent of what the "rules: say, your experience might be different.

[Sledhed]

At least you saw a good game. Go Cubs!

BTW, I've taken a IIN and a 300f4 in before with no problems but I don't need to worry about it anymore. Dennis is right though, if security says no your not getting it in.

[randerson07]

Yep, no problems, i should have taken the 70-200 with me, I was right behind the plate.

Good game is your a cubs fan, bad day if you are an STL fan.