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Simoli
26th of April 2009 (Sun), 11:30
We'll be taking a trip to DC this summer and I was wondering what experiences people have had in terms of getting thier photo gear into the assorted attractions. I plan in taking my 10-22, 17-55, and 70-200 on the sight seeing trips. I'm pretty sure that the White House will have an issue with my stuff. Anywhere else? Right now we plan on seeing the assorted monuments, National Archives, Supreme Court and the Bureau of Engraving. The Engraving place might have an issue too.
1Zach1
27th of April 2009 (Mon), 10:25
Most monuments and museums you won't have any problem bringing your camera gear, though some limit the use of a flash, but they are a no-go at the White House and the Bureau of Engraving. I'm not sure about the Supreme Court.
DisrupTer911
7th of May 2009 (Thu), 15:05
No photography allowed at Holocaust Museum.
Everywhere else I had a full bag and tripod with me at all times.

Police are fairly lenient about tripod use which is good.

I didn't hit up the treasury buildings tho, so I'm not sure about the cameras in them.
FlyingPhotog
7th of May 2009 (Thu), 15:11
No tripods allowed at either Air and Space Museum facility.

Monopod is OK out at Udvar-Hazy but I don't know about monopods at NASM on The Mall.
Jonathan Taylor
14th of May 2009 (Thu), 15:57
Tripods are a no-go in any subway stations, especially on the platforms. Photography in general in the subway stations can be risky behavior, but if you can get away with it, there are some incredible opportunities (especially if you can make your way over to the Rosslyn station with that 10-22, their escalator is the 3rd longest in the world at 205 feet, 8 inches: http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3095/2697097877_4be3e6658d.jpg).

The Natural History Museum encourages photography, as well as the brand-spankin newly renovated American History Museum, just be careful where you put that monopod, but with a 2.8 lens at 1600ISO, you'll have no problem with natural lighting.

Have fun, and be sure to share those pictures!
JackLiu
14th of May 2009 (Thu), 17:03
Been to DC about a year ago. Encountered no problems with photo equipt. Security scanners and/or inspectors will go through your gadget bag, otherwise, no prohibitions. Didn't bring a tripod, so no comment there.
AzzKicker
27th of May 2009 (Wed), 15:53
I'll be there in July! Can't wait to try out my new 16-35 F2.8L II and do it justice.