Lens Question Regarding Camera Policies at Arenas

[Corbon91]

I recently upgraded from a DRebel to a 20D (which I love BTW). I use it for mostly sporting events and special occasions. Ever since I bought my DRebel last year I've had this problem. The Anaheim Pond, which I like to go to for hockey, lacrosse, and ice skating events only allows lenses that have a length of less than 6 inches fully extended (anything longer and they consider it a "professional lens").

I currently have a Sigma 28-105 f/2.8-4 which is exactly 6" extended. It gives me ok pics but I have to bump up the ISO to 1600 and slow the shutter speed to 1/250 at f4 to get a decent picture. I also have a Tamron 28-105 f/2.8 but it's 6.5" extended.

I'd like to get a lens which has good zoom (at least 105mm but I might be willing to go for 75) a large aperature (2.8 )and that is less than 6" fully extended.

Is there a lens like that? Or might there be another solution that might solve my delimma???

[GeForceFX]

and why are "professional lenses" not allowed? ???

[Corbon91]

and why are "professional lenses" not allowed? ???
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v141/Corbon91/Smileys/dunno.gif
No idea.

[Medic1]

I am quite sure that they think that if you are using a "pro lens"....especially a eye grabbing pro white lens then that person is going to sell the pictures.......I think its just a money thing.

Hard to say what lens to use....6" is pretty short if you are looking for a decent focal length

[tim]

The 70-300 DO IS might do the job for you, but it's around US$1000.

[defordphoto]

and why are "professional lenses" not allowed? ???

They don't want a fan producing a better photo of the event than their hired pros. This is very common.

[lime]

Without knowing your budget, how about the 85 1.8, 100 2.0, 135L 2.0 or 200L 2.8.
Not zooms, but all are less than 6" & price range of ~$340-$900.

[Corbon91]

Without knowing your budget, how about the 85 1.8, 100 2.0, 135L 2.0 or 200L 2.8.
Not zooms, but all are less than 6" & price range of ~$340-$900.
I've thought about using a fixed focal length but I'm not sure if I'm willing to give up being able to zoom in and out.

[jaypie77]

I've thought about using a fixed focal length but I'm not sure if I'm willing to give up being able to zoom in and out.

Then get the 200L 2.8 and the 50 1.8 combo and switch back and forth if you really want.

[kb244]

The 70-300 DO IS might do the job for you, but it's around US$1000.

Hehe yea, at 4 inches, and upto 300mm cant beat that for a compact lens, but if you are pro then wouldnt have a problem justifying that lens :D. I remeber one event wouldnt allow SLRs, but only point and shoots.

[boBquincy]

The arena in Raleigh NC wouldn't allow a camera with a removeable lens, although I saw some SLRs with a 50mm lens being used. IOW it is an arbitrary rule. If you get good photos with a 6" lens then next time the limit will be 4".

Write to the owners/managers and let them know you will not be buying any more tickets to events until they change their policies to something more sensible.

For now, to answer your question, yes the DO lens looks like the best bet.


boB

[kb244]

The arena in Raleigh NC wouldn't allow a camera with a removeable lens, although I saw some SLRs with a 50mm lens being used. IOW it is an arbitrary rule. If you get good photos with a 6" lens then next time the limit will be 4".

Write to the owners/managers and let them know you will not be buying any more tickets to events until they change their policies to something more sensible.

For now, to answer your question, yes the DO lens looks like the best bet.


boB


Thats funny, it was when I Lived in raleigh that I Was speaking of the no-SLR, I lived in Wake Forest, but commuted to raleigh for work and entertainment.

[pfuller88]

The 70-300 DO lens would give you the range and size but not the same speed as the 1.8 or 2 lens.

[Corbon91]

The 70-300 DO IS might do the job for you, but it's around US$1000.
Isn't the aperature on that 4.5-5.6? I read that the minimum for indoor sports is 2.8 or better. I need a bigger aperature.

Hey kb244, is that 4" fully extended? It doesn't specify that on the Canon website. Remember, its 6" fully extended.

I did check Tamron's website and they do have a 28-75mm f/2.8 lens which is 5" extended. http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v141/Corbon91/Smileys/dunno.gif

[pcasciola]

The 70-300 DO is definitely over 6" extended, but I think it has a focus ring lock, so maybe you can lock it and sneak it in at it's 4" length. That's a big gamble for $1000 though.

The Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Xr Di is probably your best bet. I just measured it, and fully extended with a UV filter and front and rear caps, it's 5.993", measured with a digital caliper so they can't give you any crap about it. :D

Otherwise, go with a prime or two. You could get an 50/1.8 and 85/1.8 for about $400 for both.

[musthavemuzk]

i take it this is for bigtime arenas?
at regionals for state hockey here there was no limits that i could see and i saw alot of glass.

Monty

[22littlereasons]

I stay away from the pro arenas. There's lots of good sports photo opportunities in the amateur sports world.

[Corbon91]

Yes it's for pro arenas specifically the Anaheim Pond. Staples Center is very strict. It's 3.5" and no telephoto or zoom lenses of any kind. So I wouldn't even think about taking any camera there.

[BrianM65]

This is the policy for American Airlines Center in Dallas. My ? is what is considered "Professional"?

Cameras, Video Cameras, Audio Recorders

Professional cameras are prohibited at all events in American Airlines Center unless accompanied by appropriate media credentials. Cameras containing lenses (not to exceed 4 inches in length) with no flashes may be allowed for some events. Video cameras and audio recorders are prohibited in American Airlines Center unless specifically approved. Please check in advance by calling 214-665-4299.

Restrictions on the use of still and video cameras vary by event. The event producer determines this policy. Some sporting events permit still cameras without flash, but not recording devices. Concerts typically do not permit any cameras or recording devices (audio or video). Guests should contact an American Airlines Center representative at 214-665-4299 to find out the policy prior to the event.

[Tom W]

For the prices they charge for admission to some of these events, they ought to set up a studio and have the players and performers pose for you.

[RJSorensen]

I think so as well . . . often a lot for a little.

[Corbon91]

For the prices they charge for admission to some of these events, they ought to set up a studio and have the players and performers pose for you.
LOL. The next event I'm planning to go to is an ice skating exhibition so I wouldn't mind if Michelle Kwan would pose just for me. ;)

[Corbon91]

Thanks for all your replies. I decided to go with the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8. I'll probably be selling my Tamron 28-105 f/2.8. Anyone know how much I can get for it? I've only had it a few months.

[pcasciola]

You might take a hit on that one because Tamron is offering a $150 rebate on that lens through April 30th.

[Andy_T]

Still, I think you'll positively love the 28-75/2.8.

It's a great lens that lives on my camera all the time.

Best regards,
Andy