GlenBose
Loc: NE Florida, formerly Limerick, PA
Get a Platypod, they do not identify it as a camera support.
And given security concerns, I can almost understand.
String pods work better for me anyway, and fit in my pocket.
I was in DC this last December and saw a few tripods?? I knew that some photographers have had some problems with extremely long or big lenses in the past. They have been stopped and asked about the equipment by security. They just revise the gear and if everything good they let you go away.
They didn't say no tripods in DC...the officer was talking about the grounds of the Capitol...big difference!
ricardo7
Loc: Washington, DC - Santiago, Chile
I live in DC. Tripods are often OK if you plan ahead and follow the rules.
Ask first to see if a permit is needed.
jdub82
Loc: Northern California
There are restrictions on tripods in certain locations in Washington D.C. Some locations, such as the National Mall, do not restrict tripods except for commercial photography. The restrictions at various tourist locations vary. There are restrictions at the monuments. Here is a discussion which covers the rules at many D.C. locations
https://www.flickr.com/groups/35468135754@N01/discuss/72157624758665525/ I have been to D.C. many times, and have never been hindered by taking all my photos handheld. Because you will likely walk many miles around D.C. when touring, I don't recommend carrying a tripod at all.
rehess
Loc: South Bend, Indiana, USA
jdub82 wrote:
I have been to D.C. many times, and have never been hindered by taking all my photos handheld. Because you will likely walk many miles around D.C. when touring, I don't recommend carrying a tripod at all.
With modern stabilization, I'm not sure why an amateur would need a tripod or monopod there.
rehess wrote:
With modern stabilization, I'm not sure why an amateur would need a tripod or monopod there.
The monuments all light up at night. It is a different world at night, and a tripod Is needed then.
I'll keep this in mind when I visit DC again. Thanks for this video. I plan to visit the Capitol Grounds.
srt101fan wrote:
They didn't say no tripods in DC...the officer was talking about the grounds of the Capitol...big difference!
It was pretty clear in the video clip. Only pertains to capital grounds and government property immediately surrounding. Probably also around the White House.
rehess wrote:
With modern stabilization, I'm not sure why an amateur would need a tripod or monopod there.
I would like to see you do a 30-60 second exposure hand held. Again, listen to the video and what the police are referring to is not DC as a whole.
I understand why they would not want anyone to use tripods, mono-pods or other stabilizing devices around the government properties in DC for you would easily be able to get clear photos of Congressmen (and women) and Senators with their hands in the taxpayer's pockets.
Maybe when he asked what the purpose of your visit was and you replied "Just taking a few shots" had a little to do with it ...
I shoot in DC 5 or 6 times a year - mostly dark/twilight and ALWAYS have a tripod. Never had any issues of any kind. Mostly just being polite to all the tourists wanting to know about the equipment. Tripods are restricted in some places. Even then it is usually for safety when crowded. At 3AM at the Lincoln they let you quietly go about your business if you are discreet and properly respectful. And low perspective shots are always available and stable from the floor. I never get tired of shooting DC at night. The WWII memorial is a personal favorite. Shoot through the water spray to the Lincoln at sunset. Walk down the reflecting pool. Korean memorial, FDR, Lincoln, Jefferson, Washington. Shoot from the steps of Lincoln down the reflecting pool past the Washington to the Capital at civil twilight. You might run out of digital film. Very photogenic city. Come often to see where all your tax dollars get folded spindled and mutilated.
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