MetLife Stadium, a premier sports and entertainment venue, has specific policies regarding what you can and cannot bring inside. If you're planning to attend an event and want to capture the moments, understanding their digital camera policy is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to ensure a smooth entry with your camera. ️
Step 1: Let's Get Started! Are You Planning to Attend an Event at MetLife Stadium Soon?
Before we dive into the specifics, tell me: What kind of event are you attending? Knowing this can sometimes help clarify certain nuances, although the general camera policy remains consistent for most events. Whether it's a concert, a Giants game, a Jets game, or another special event, understanding the rules will save you time and hassle at the gate.
Step 2: Understanding MetLife Stadium's Bag Policy – A Crucial Precursor to Camera Entry
MetLife Stadium, like many large venues, operates under a strict bag policy to enhance safety and speed up entry for all guests. This policy directly impacts how you'll carry your digital camera.
The Clear Bag Policy: What You Need to Know
MetLife Stadium strongly encourages guests not to bring any bags into the stadium. However, if you must, they must adhere to the following guidelines:
Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12". These are the most common type of bags allowed.
One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag or similar).
Small clutch bags (with or without a strap) that are no larger than 4.5" x 6.5" are permitted alongside one of the clear bags.
What does this mean for your camera? If your digital camera and its accessories can fit comfortably within one of these approved bags, you're off to a good start.
Prohibited Bags
Backpacks
Fanny packs
Luggage
Computer bags
Camera bags (unless they are clear and meet the size requirements)
Binocular cases
Briefcases
Coolers
Large purses
Step 3: Digital Camera Policy Specifics – What Kind of Camera Can You Bring?
Now, let's get to the heart of the matter: your digital camera. MetLife Stadium's policy on cameras is generally quite accommodating for casual photographers, but there are important restrictions for professional-grade equipment.
Allowed Digital Cameras
In general, small, non-professional digital cameras are permitted. This typically includes:
Point-and-shoot digital cameras: These are the most common type of personal digital camera and are almost always allowed. They are compact and usually have fixed lenses or small zoom capabilities.
Cell phone cameras: Of course, your smartphone's camera is always welcome.
Cameras with fixed lenses: If your digital camera has a lens that cannot be removed or interchanged, it's generally fine.
Prohibited Camera Equipment
Here's where it gets tricky for more serious photographers. MetLife Stadium prohibits professional photographic equipment and accessories. This includes:
Cameras with detachable lenses: This is the key restriction. If your camera allows you to change lenses (e.g., DSLR or mirrorless cameras), it will likely be denied entry.
Lenses exceeding 6 inches (from the camera body): Even if you have a camera with a detachable lens that somehow slips through, any lens longer than 6 inches is a definite no-go.
Monopods, tripods, and selfie sticks: These items are universally prohibited due to safety and obstruction concerns.
Flash photography equipment: External flashes, light stands, and similar professional lighting equipment are not allowed.
Drones: Absolutely no drones are permitted inside or around the stadium.
Why these restrictions? The primary reasons are safety, ensuring clear sightlines for all attendees, and preventing professional-level photography that might conflict with official event photographers or broadcast rights.
Step 4: Security Screening – Be Prepared for Inspection
Regardless of your camera type, all bags and personal items are subject to inspection upon entry. Security personnel have the final say on what is allowed into the stadium.
Tips for a Smooth Security Check
Have your camera easily accessible: If it's in a clear bag, fantastic. If not, be ready to take it out for inspection.
Do not argue with security: Their decision is final. If an item is deemed prohibited, you will either need to return it to your vehicle or dispose of it. There are no lockers or storage facilities available at MetLife Stadium for prohibited items.
Arrive early: Especially if you have any concerns about your bag or camera, arriving well before the event starts gives you ample time to sort things out.
Step 5: Etiquette for Photographers Inside the Stadium
Even with an approved camera, there are still some rules of etiquette to follow once you're inside:
Respect others' views: Do not block anyone's view while taking photos. Be mindful of your surroundings.
No flash photography during play/performance: This can be distracting to athletes and performers, and to other fans.
Personal use only: Photos taken inside MetLife Stadium are generally for personal, non-commercial use only. You cannot use them for professional gain or resale without explicit permission from the venue or event organizers.
Be aware of event-specific rules: For certain concerts or special events, artists or promoters may have additional restrictions on photography. Always check the event-specific guidelines if available.
Step 6: What If My Camera Is Denied Entry?
If your camera or bag is deemed prohibited, you have limited options:
Return to your vehicle: If you drove, your best bet is to return the item to your car.
Dispose of the item: For items that cannot be returned to a vehicle, you may be forced to dispose of them. MetLife Stadium does not provide storage.
Do not attempt to hide prohibited items: This could lead to further complications, including denial of entry without refund.
FAQ: Your Quick Answers to Common Camera Questions
How to know if my camera has a detachable lens?
A camera has a detachable lens if the lens can be twisted off the camera body and replaced with another lens. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras typically have detachable lenses.
How to bring a small digital camera into MetLife Stadium?
Place your small, non-professional digital camera (like a point-and-shoot) in a clear bag that meets the stadium's 12" x 6" x 12" policy, or a small clutch bag (4.5" x 6.5").
How to identify a "professional" camera for MetLife Stadium?
MetLife Stadium generally considers cameras with interchangeable lenses or lenses longer than 6 inches from the camera body as "professional" and thus prohibited.
How to avoid issues with camera entry at MetLife Stadium?
Stick to small point-and-shoot digital cameras or your smartphone camera, and ensure any bag carrying it adheres to the clear bag policy.
How to check event-specific camera rules for MetLife Stadium?
Always check the official MetLife Stadium website or the specific event's website/ticket information for any additional camera restrictions that may apply to your event.
How to store prohibited camera equipment if I accidentally bring it?
MetLife Stadium does not offer storage for prohibited items. You'll need to return it to your vehicle or dispose of it.
How to use a phone camera responsibly at MetLife Stadium?
Be mindful of others' views, avoid flash photography during play/performance, and only take photos for personal, non-commercial use.
How to tell if my camera lens is over 6 inches?
Measure the length of the lens from the camera body when it's attached. If it extends more than 6 inches, it's likely prohibited.
How to get the best photos at MetLife Stadium with an allowed camera?
Focus on capturing the atmosphere, wide shots of the stadium, and moments of celebration. Utilize your phone's zoom if allowed, but avoid relying on excessive digital zoom.
How to find MetLife Stadium's official bag and camera policy?
Always refer to the official MetLife Stadium website (
