Ever been denied entry because of your gear?

Earlier this week I went to a Cleveland Cavaliers (professional basketball team) game and was denied entry with my camera gear "because my lenses were too big."

The lenses in question were a 17-55mm and a 70-300 IS USM. I've carried both of these into prior Cavs games, but this time I was told there was a new policy limiting certain types of equipment. Interestingly, neither the Cavs site nor the NBA site mentions anything on this topic.

I've sent the club an email requesting clarification (this could just been an overzealous Security supervisor), but it got me wondering if this is happening to anyone else.

Have you been denied entry to a sporting event due to security concerns related to your camera gear?

BradS wrote in post #2769190
Earlier this week I went to a Cleveland Cavaliers (professional basketball team) game and was denied entry with my camera gear "because my lenses were too big."

The lenses in question were a 17-55mm and a 70-300 IS USM. I've carried both of these into prior Cavs games, but this time I was told there was a new policy limiting certain types of equipment. Interestingly, neither the Cavs site nor the NBA site mentions anything on this topic.

I've sent the club an email requesting clarification (this could just been an overzealous Security supervisor), but it got me wondering if this is happening to anyone else.

Have you been denied entry to a sporting event due to security concerns related to your camera gear?

From their site:
Cameras/Video Recorders
Cameras are permitted for Cavaliers games. The camera policy for other events is determined by each show. If allowed, cameras will be inspected at designated turnstiles. Call Event Information at (216) 420-2200 to find out the camera policy for select events in advance. Video recorders are not permitted inside Quicken Loans Arena for events and Cavaliers games.

It doesn't state specifically the rules, but it does say that someone will inspect it. A lot of professional teams have rules similar to what you encountered. There's been several stories like yours posted on here before.

Why did they not let you in? I don't get it.

The Nationals baseball team in Washington DC has a 6-inch or less lens rule.

I can see a big fast prime could potentially injure someone but seem ridiculous to ban a 70-300. Another factor may be that the pros pay good money for their pitch and in return the organisers will keep out the competition?

dirt lover wrote in post #2770122
Why did they not let you in? I don't get it.

I suppose one of two reasons could be behind the tightened restrictions:
1. When used in the normal seating areas, large lenses might pose a nuisance or safety issue for the people sitting in front of you.
2. Very large lenses could be used to carry significant amounts of explosive material; it's the Cav's job to provide as secure environment as possible.

As I indicated in the OP, I had attended Cavs games in the past and used my 70-300 lens - certainly there was enough room in the seating area. Interference with the row in front was never even a question. Even then, why deny my stubby little 17-55?

The security concern could be a more valid issue. Other venues have simply asked me to take the lens cap off so they could peer inside. I offered this action to the entrance supervisor, but he declined, saying it was a size thing. When I get my response from the Cavs management, I'll suggest this as an alternative to a total ban, assuming security is the reason they provide.

I'm not whining about this nor did I make a scene at the security entrance. The supervisor was just doing his job enforcing what he believed to be management's policies. I am, though, concerned about this becoming a trend at all sporting events. I hope not!

Somewhat interesting side note: I'm responsible for a business providing security systems to large global customers, so I know a thing or two about security. I'll bet the true answer is they are balancing:
1. risk of danger to patrons (explosives)
2. entrance throughput (good inspections take time)
3. employee skills (knowing what to look for when peering into a lens)
4. brand protection (what if something DID happen - attendance drops to zero)
5. Customer satisfaction / enjoyment

In today's world, the priorities are as listed.

The SOP in this situation is to try a different gate. Unfortunately, this can be a bit subjective. I've had one security dude say "no" and then gone to another gate and had a different one let me in (and this was with a Sigma 120-300).

Dennis

More than once. It has become the norm here in Los Angeles. Nothing longer than three inches at Staples Center and Home Depot Center.

Big Hands wrote in post #2771681
More than once. It has become the norm here in Los Angeles. Nothing longer than three inches at Staples Center and Home Depot Center.

I did receive a response from PR at the Quicken Loans Arena - the Cavs allow fans to enter with lenses no longer than 6" and no more than 4" across. Anything more is considered 'professional' and required Press credentials.

Last week's security guard must have guessed a bit on the generous side when he rejected my 6.0" 70-300mm and 4.5" 17-55mm lenses. I'll throw a small ruler in the camera bag to help them estimate the next time...

I never knew the size of your lens determined how professional you are.

When confronted with this situation I politely ask the security guard where i can ask formy money back since it isn't printed anywhere on my ticket or at the door where they searcehd me and let me in with no complaints.

I said maybe we have to get the person responsible for searching patrons here to see why he let me in.

I was told to sit and enjoy my seat and to not be a nuisance to anyone behind me.

Boston Bruins/TD Banknrth Garden last year refused to allow me in DESPITE their posted photo policy that clearly allowed it. They claimed my bad was too big, meanwhile dozens of women entered with bigger bags while I debated with the morons at the gate. Then, they had no place for me to check my bag & equipment and suggested I have a bartender or 7-11 clerk across the street hold it for me. And I bet they wonder why BC Hockey draws a bigger crowd....

Big Hands wrote in post #2771681
More than once. It has become the norm here in Los Angeles. Nothing longer than three inches at Staples Center and Home Depot Center.

From the Staples site:
Photography
No commercial or flash photography of any kind is permitted. Camcorders or any other audio/visual equipment is prohibited unless authorized by team/promoter or performer. Specifically, the use of the following equipment is not permitted:

• Lenses greater than three-and-one-half inches in length
  
• Telephoto or zoom lenses of any kind
  
• Interchangeable lenses of any kind
  
• Monopods or tripods
  
• Flash equipment of any kind

Meanwhile my 70-200mm F2.8 gets me into any college or other sports event without question. I can get into any highschool event without a ticket (but pay because it is often fundraising...

I was kicked out of a PGA event 20 years ago for taking picture of Arnold palmer walking up the fairway about 100FT from me. Policy was no pictures of the pros once they approached the green by photogs without press credentials. The clicking must break their concentration especially once they are so close...

Brice

I belive it, Staples center is Los Angles has a lens rule of 3" or less. (for a Kings hockey game)

Only lens i could use that day was my 50mm 1.8 when i owned it. I got told off for using me 10-22.