Olympic committee bans "professional" cameras for visitors

Leonard Goh | Jul 31, 2008

If you're heading to Beijing (or are already there) for the Olympics, take note that the Beijing Organizing Committee for the Games has imposed bans on several items, one of which is "professional camera equipment". Unless you have official press credentials, we suggest you bring just your point-and-shoot along for the Games.

So what constitutes "professional camera equipment"? Are there any measurements or benchmark to compare with? Although it wasn't mentioned on the official Olympic's Web site, some netizens are speculating that it's dSLRs with big lens. Then what about Fujifilm's FinePix S100fs, which is physically bigger than some entry-level dSLRs? Or the Olympus E-420 fitted with the 25mm pancake lens, a combination small enough to look like a bulky point-and-shoot?

If not properly stated, this vague description may trigger some arguments at the security checkpoint, and I don't think spectators will be happy to be rejected at the door just because of the equipment they are carrying. The best way to steer clear of all the trouble and get your seat? Leave your dSLR at home.

Filed under: Digital Cameras
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my2cents

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my2cents says...
Is it still worth going to the Olympics at all?. Unlimited internet access is not allowed (only for "appropriate" sites, whatever that is; certainly not Amnesty International), and now visitors cannot use the camera they have. What about the actual partcipants or VIPs (e.g., top brass of partners like Kodak and Omega)". I now also understand why there are 100 000 security forces of all sorts (33 000 per shift). They have to check if reporters do not use inappropriate site, if spectators have appropriate cameras.
So in case you bought your ticket: sell them, stay at home, and take the digital signal of your TV for the close-ups.

Jul 31, 2008 17:21

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isaac976

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isaac976 says...
darn .. and i just got my 40D and hoping to shoot some people.... i mean photography wise

Aug 02, 2008 02:13

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gohleonard

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gohleonard says...
well, if the VIPs have the proper clearance, i guess they would be able to bring their cameras in. As for internet access, i read that the government is relaxing on the ban on Websites, not 100%, but hopefully within a reasonable limit. When i was in China in June, i had some problems with the internet access as well...couldn't access certain sites.

Aug 03, 2008 01:32

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4real

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4real says...
Just want to quickly update you guys on this topic. I went to the opening ceremony last night here in Beijing with my Nikon D80 with 18-200 VR lens, no problem!!! There is NO camera restriction what so ever. There so many digital SLRs, video recorders and I even saw some people bring in real professional cameras (no tripods though).

If I can take mine to the opening ceremony, you can do it in any other games. ENJOY!!!

Aug 09, 2008 12:28

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