Tripods Allowed in DC for Fireworks?

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

07/03/2009 10:28:30 PM · #1

We're going tomorrow for the fireworks and know security will be tight. A local said that they won't even let you in with a ball so now I'm concerned about taking the tripod. If I get rejected it would take me 1.5 - 2 hours roundtrip to take it back to the car since we're taking the Metro. Has anybody had experience with this? Any recommended places to take them from? I've heard across the river is great but I have no idea where to go.

citymars

Nikon D700

07/03/2009 11:18:14 PM · #2

Good question, I wish I had an answer for you.

Nikon AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8G ED

07/03/2009 11:22:17 PM · #3

Originally posted by citymars:

Good question, I wish I had an answer for you.

I cannot find anything specifically prohibiting a tripod anywhere, but my gut tells me that I may not get in with it. More calls to try in the morning since there's nobody there before this huge event.

alanfreed

Nikon Z9

07/03/2009 11:32:51 PM · #4

I do believe there are areas where they're prohibited, like around the capitol building. I was there earlier this week, but didn't attempt to bring one along.

07/03/2009 11:49:11 PM · #5

Originally posted by alanfreed:

I do believe there are areas where they're prohibited, like around the capitol building. I was there earlier this week, but didn't attempt to bring one along.

I know they get all excited when you try to use them on steps and such and that they're prohibited in most of the buildings. I should have brought one of my old crappy ones that I wouldn't care getting rid of if they ban 'em for the special event.

MelonMusketeer

Nikon D7000

Nikon MF 50mm f/1.4

07/03/2009 11:52:56 PM · #6

If you take a small tripod or gorilla pod, you can use it on your chest with 2 legs extended and get quite a bit of stability. If you have a monopod, you may be able to slip that in as a walking stick/cane sort of thing.
I can't help with a straight answer about your chances of getting in trouble with having a tripod.
eta; A sand bag may be useful if you have one.

Message edited by author 2009-07-03 23:54:02.

Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5- 5.6G ED DX

07/03/2009 11:56:18 PM · #7

Originally posted by MelonMusketeer:

We actually have the gorillapod here. hmmmmmmm......

JeffryZ

Nikon D80

07/04/2009 12:16:14 AM · #8

A quick search found another forum where they said they generally don't allow tripods at events where large crowds are expected (and this would certainly be one). It also mentioned that they do not allow tripods with rubber feet to be used in areas with marbled floors (it can mark them up). I'd play it safe and leave it at home.

BeeCee

Nikon D40

Nikon AF-S DX Zoom-Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 ED

07/04/2009 12:16:18 AM · #9

Or make one of those string tripod thingies that have been posted a couple times?

danculwell

Sony DSLR-A200

Sony DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Aspherical ED Zoom Lens for Sony Alpha

07/04/2009 12:21:50 AM · #10

$1 Camera Stabilization

JeffryZ

Nikon D80

Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 18-135mm f/3.5- 5.6G ED DX

07/04/2009 12:26:47 AM · #11

Cool idea. Or you could just bring some duct tape and find a light pole and tape your camera to it. Just don't get any on the lens or cover up your buttons.

keriboi

Canon PowerShot G10

Tamron AF 18-200mm f/3.5-6.3 XR Di II for Canon

07/04/2009 12:27:07 AM · #12

wow, cant wait to try a $1 trick :)