Lowepro, which has received dozens of requests for advice on what you can and can’t take in to the London Summer Games, has provided some guidelines on what’s allowed. Emphasising the importance of checking the rules for the specific event you are going to, Lowepro advises that photographers take one soft-sided bag (max 25 litre capacity) which must fit within the maximum dimensions of 30cm x 20cm x 20cm. They also mention that according to the Restricted Items list from the officials for the Olympics, no ‘large photographic or broadcast equipment over 30cm in length’ is allowed. The reason given by organisers is that long lenses, tripods and umbrellas could all interfere with others’ viewing experiences. DSLRs and compact cameras are permitted but do note that tripods and monopods must also fit within the size restrictions.

Lowepro Press Release

PHOTOGRAPHERS BEWARE: When 30cm is not just 30cm this summer!

If you’re heading to any of the sporting events this summer make sure you double check the rules regarding what you can and can’t take in to the events – to avoid the risk of having valuable photographic equipment confiscated!

Lowepro, the UK’s leading camera bag brand, has received dozens of requests for advice on what you can and can’t carry and has kindly provided some guidelines on what’s allowed.  Its important to check the rules for the specific event you are going to though – it seems the guidelines vary immensely!

The general rule is one soft-sided bag (max 25 litre capacity) which must fit ‘under your seat’. The maximum dimensions for bags is 30cm x 20cm x 20cm (kit may fit within these regulations, but check your bag does) – and allow space for any other personal items you need to carry

According to the Restricted Items list from the officials for the Olympics, no ‘large photographic or broadcast equipment over 30cm in length’ is allowed
The 30cm rule includes tripods and monopods which are specifically mentioned
There may be some events where photography equipment is banned completely – so DO CHECK
And even if the weather continues – you can’t take large golf-style umbrellas to events either
At the time of writing, organisers have stated that DSLRs and compact cameras are permitted so long as they fit within the size restrictions

It should also be noted that, like at many other sporting events, images or footage shot at any of the games cannot be used for any commercial purpose.
The reason given by organisers for the above restrictions are that long lenses, tripods and brollies could all interfere with others’ viewing experiences.

So to be safe here are a few suggestions of the Lowepro bags which fit within the 30 x 20 x 20cm rules:
Any Lowepro pouches – there does not seem to be any restrictions on taking compact cameras to events
Lowepro Event Messenger 100
The Lowepro Adventura range – up to 160 model
The Lowepro Nova range – up to 140 model
Lowepro Rezo range – up to 140 model
Lowepro Photo Traveller 150
Lowepro Passport Sling

It should be reiterated, similar to when flying, ensure you check the rules for your specific event to ensure you’re not stuck outside. 
In a previous document, event organisers have stated that equipment ‘may be confiscated and may not be returned to you’!

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