Strict bag policy becoming common

I live in southern California and have noticed some large events are placing restrictions on bags.
Some demand only clear bags and limit the bag size. Under the rules a few of my camera bags
would not be allowed. It's a good idea to visit the event's web site and read the bag policy ahead of time.

Given the world we live in I can understand the need for tighter security. Just be sure to plan ahead.

Here's 3 recent events that have implemented a strict bag policy...

http://miramarairshow.​com/security-and-faqs

http://www.lacoliseum.​com/index.php/bag-policy/

http://laautoshow.com/​bag-policy/

Where you live are you seeing the same thing?

I tried to honestly respond to this. For the life of me, I couldn't find a way to post the response it deserves without getting politically inflammatory. God help us. The terrorists are winning.

Just answering the question that was asked. Athletic events at the local state University. Allowed are:

" Bags that are clear plastic or vinyl and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12”
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag or similar)
Small clutch bags, approximately the size of a hand, after being searched
Exceptions will be made for medically necessary items after proper inspection"

In addition
"All fans are asked to open their jackets, remove hats and allow security to conduct a search of all persons and parcels. "

Camera bags are in the specific list of prohibited items.

That's when I use one of those camera bags that look like a purse. Total double standard, but camera bag = bad, camera bag that looks like a purse = don't mess with a woman's purse.

In my experience, it varies according to the venue and the specific event and the "participants".

It always helps to read up on specific guidelines. Otherwise, you can try to get in some nice gear with longer lenses and be turned back. You may be able to check it in (and pick it up afterwards) or you may have to walk it out to your vehicle, which in "pro" venues can be quite a walk!

'Course, there are different rules that apply to "pro" photographers, those licensed by a media outlet and specifically allowed to come in, take a position with high-level gear and shoot away!

In practice I've found that things vary. I read the guidelines, then I'll "play it by ear". Sometimes you can get away with things a bit, if you are willing to take the risk.

For example, I sat in the bleachers for a pro basketball game and had only and old compact camera to shoot with. Understandably, the results were not so good!

Then, I was headed to a AAA semi-pro baseball game, and I checked and double-checked with a phone call, and my gear was allowed, including my "workhorse" 1DM3, the 70-200 f/2.8 white L lens, and along with them my longer 100-400 white lens, and thanks to the openness of the venue, I was quite happy with my results, although I would have been happier if I had been up alongside the TV and pro crews that were perched along the sideline fences!

I took a trip to Disneyland a number of years ago, I brought a pack/bag of "modest" gear, along with my compact super-zoom camera. They let me in, although I pretty much relied on my compact for shooting on the go there!

And then, there are indoor performance events where there are both limits on the size of your gear and also no-flash rules.

In smaller venues, such as some smaller sports events and also the above indoor performance events, it helps to get to know the folks that are "running" things! Indoor performances, for example, may have special accommodations for "working" photographers, but if you are in the crowd waving around a camera, especially a bigger one or using a flash, well, you can get escorted out!

tonylong wrote in post #18193976
In practice I've found that things vary. I read the guidelines, then I'll "play it by ear". Sometimes you can get away with things a bit, if you are willing to take the risk.

Here in LA I can avoid traffic by taking the Metro train to a few venues. If I take a risk and bring a bag that doesn't meet restrictions, I will be sent away.
I can't walk to the parking lot and put my bag in the trunk. My day will be ruined.

PhotogNY wrote in post #18193968
That's when I use one of those camera bags that look like a purse. Total double standard, but camera bag = bad, camera bag that looks like a purse = don't mess with a woman's purse.

That won't work. The 3 links I posted have restrictions on purses.
From the first link...

◾Bags, purses, totes, backpacks & other types of baggage other than bags conforming to the new Clear Bag Policy will not be permitted.

The purse would have to be clear and of a certain size.

Too many of these restrictions are intended to help the organizers or the vendors on site make more money by forcing on-site purchases or restricting photography.

Clear bags- I can see where it can speed up the search lines.

Do official photographers have follow the same rules.

filmuser wrote in post #18194149
Do official photographers have follow the same rules.

"Credentialed personnel" are allowed some exceptions, after a thorough search.


re the post above about using a camera bag that looks like a purse. Nope, won't work. No purse larger than a clutch (4.5" x 6.5") allowed, and even clutches are to be searched. A moot point anyway, as for anyone other than those "credentialed personnel"

"Videotaping or photography by ticket holders in ICA venues is restricted. No backlights, flashes, or mono/tripods."

oh, no tinted plastic either, must be clear.

What is ICA?

Inter collegiate athletics

This is per my local university, I don't know policies for any others.