Can I bring a camera to the concert? Key Arena (Seattle)

[karma_gypsy]

I'm going to a concert being held at Key Arena in Seattle on July 3, so I have a newb question for those who have been to big concerts before ....


I was looking over their "rules" on their website, and it says they don't allow camcorders and audio recording devices. Cameras are on a case-by-case basis... And also it mentions that they search everyone ... so I guess no sneaking in a disposable camera ....?

I'm wanting to bring camera, but I don't want it taken away, or, like my husband said, having to leave the line (which I guess is a pain in the ass). I have a digital camera and a SLR 35mm camera (no flash), would they perhaps let any one of those in?

Does anyone have any experience in this area? Or am I best just to leave the camera at home?

[Shpepper]

It's usually best to leave the cameras at home. That way you don't have to worry about it. The one thing that I did find was that they did not bother with cell phones. So if you have a camera on your cell that might do what you want. Or if you really want film or better pics, take a cheap disposable that if they give you a hassle about it, it's not going to break the bank to leave it behind and you won't have to get in line again either.

[AdminAssistant]

I've never been to a big concert, but in theatres we ban cameras/recording devices for two reasons: copyright law (which I have a feeling is the case here) and safety. Yes, stage lights are bright, but they're not OMGINMYEYES the way a flash is.

[karma_gypsy]

Oh, I didn't even think of copyright laws ... Yeah, ya'll are right ... it's probably best to leave the camera at home, that way I don't have to worry about it getting stolen/broken/lost/dropped either.

[Broomjockey]

I'd say the most likely thing would be they'd let a disposable with no flash in. It'd be a low enough image quality that they'd not care. However, I'm not sure that you can find them without flashes anymore.

[karma_gypsy]

True, I used a disposable once for a party and I was able to turn the flash on or off. I was rather impressed by the image quality even .... even on a cloudy day, the pictures were clear and had good exposure. I believe the disposable was a generic brand even. I don't know how well one would do in a large area like a concert arena ...


Come to think of it, I think my digital sucks when it comes to taking faraway shots like that ... like it's usually a hit or miss when it comes to decent shots. I remember I took it to Medieval Times and used it, and that was a really small arena with me sitting up front ... and the shots came out pretty badly .... I'm sure the low-lighting didn't help either though. Well, anyway, listen to me ramble .... But then again, it made me realize that my digital would probably be useless in an event like that ...

[karma_gypsy]

In closing ...

I e-mailed Key Arena and inquired about bringing a camera to the concert and I was surprised to get an e-mail back (rather quickly too).

In a nutshell, the rep said that small, non-professional point-and-shoot cameras are o.k. No flash photography. So, that's cool.

[sarasquirrel]

every concert i go to i bring a point and shoot. id love to bring my dslr but alas, i cannot

concert tomorrow night!!

[LionMan]

Even though its been resolved, as a rule its up to the promoter of the event as to whether cameras are allowed or not. Professional cameras (usually defined as lens with length 6 inches or longer) are generally not allowed unless you talk with the promoter beforehand. Many times one will have to deal with releases and contracts to do that. Also, cameras with flash are usually not allowed since they get quite annoying having the flashes going off all the time. The nice thing some shows do is allow flashes during the first couple songs so people can get their pictures in, but then end them so people can actually watch the show. I have been to a few shows that were actually no cameras and security would send people back to their cars if they did have cameras. Here, though, a small camera or cell phone could be snuck by, although you won't get great pictures. These are quite annoying, but in one case, there definately was a good reason behind that (the show got quite rowdy).