Capturing Memories at MetLife Stadium: Your Ultimate Camera Guide ️
Heading to MetLife Stadium for an epic game, a mind-blowing concert, or a thrilling event? Naturally, you'll want to capture those unforgettable moments! But before you pack your entire photography kit, let's dive into MetLife Stadium's camera policy. It can be a bit tricky, but with this detailed guide, you'll be snapping away without a hitch.
Step 1: Get Ready to Dive In!
Hey there, future stadium photographer! Are you excited about your upcoming event at MetLife Stadium? Whether it's a roaring Jets or Giants game, a sold-out concert, or another exciting spectacle, getting your photos just right is part of the experience. But first, let's make sure you can actually bring your camera in. Ready to find out what's allowed and what's not? Let's get started!
Step 2: Understanding the Core Camera Policy
MetLife Stadium has a clear and consistent camera policy that primarily focuses on lens size and the type of camera. The general rule of thumb is: if it looks professional or has a long lens, it's likely a no-go. The goal is to ensure spectator safety, prevent obstruction of views, and manage commercial photography.
2.1: The 6-Inch Lens Rule: Your Best Friend
The most crucial detail to remember is the 6-inch lens limit. Still-photography cameras are generally permitted if their lens is 6 inches (or less) in length. This applies whether the lens is detachable or non-detachable.
2.2: Professional Cameras: A Firm No
Professional cameras are typically not allowed. This usually includes:
Cameras with detachable lenses that are longer than 6 inches.
Any camera equipment that stadium management deems "professional" or that could interfere with other guests' enjoyment.
2.3: Video Cameras: Strictly Prohibited
This is an important one: single-purpose video cameras and video recording of events with other devices at MetLife Stadium are prohibited. While your phone's video function is usually fine for personal use, dedicated video cameras are not.
Step 3: Beyond the Camera Itself: Tripods, Monopods, and "Selfie Sticks"
Even if your camera meets the lens requirement, other accessories can get you into trouble.
3.1: No Stability, Please!
Tripods, monopods, and "selfie sticks" are NOT permitted inside MetLife Stadium. These items can obstruct views, pose safety risks, and are generally seen as equipment for professional-level photography, which is not allowed for general admission.
3.2: Keeping it Handheld
Your photography should be handheld. This means no elaborate setups or extensions that could bother other fans or create a hazard.
Step 4: The Bag Policy and Your Camera
MetLife Stadium has a strict Clear Bag Policy that impacts how you carry your camera. This policy is in place for expedited entry and enhanced security.
4.1: Clear Bags Are a Must
All bags brought into the stadium must adhere to the clear bag policy. This means:
Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that are no larger than 12" x 6" x 12".
A one-gallon clear plastic freezer bag (like a Ziploc bag) is also permitted.
4.2: Clutch Purses: The Exception
You can also bring a small clutch purse (non-clear) that is no larger than 4.5" x 6.5". This is essentially for your essentials like a phone, wallet, and keys.
4.3: Camera Bags: Not Permitted
Crucially, camera bags are explicitly listed as prohibited items. This means you cannot bring your camera in its dedicated camera bag, even if the camera itself is allowed. You'll need to place your permissible camera (and any other items) into an approved clear bag or a small clutch.
Step 5: Event-Specific Considerations
While the general policy remains constant, it's always wise to double-check for specific events.
5.1: "Know Before You Go"
MetLife Stadium often publishes a "Know Before You Go" guide for individual events (especially concerts or major sporting events like the Super Bowl or FIFA World Cup matches). This guide will outline any event-specific variations to the camera policy. Always check this section on the official MetLife Stadium website before you head out.
5.2: Concerts vs. Games
Sometimes, concert promoters might have even stricter rules than the general stadium policy regarding cameras. While NFL games usually stick to the 6-inch lens rule for still photography, concerts occasionally prohibit any cameras beyond cell phones. So, for concerts, pay extra attention to those "Know Before You Go" emails or website updates!
Step 6: Security Screening and Entry
Expect thorough security screening upon entry.
6.1: Bag Inspection
All bags, including your clear bag, will be inspected by security personnel. Be prepared to open your bag and potentially remove contents for inspection.
6.2: Metal Detectors
Guests will also go through a walk-through metal detector. You'll need to place items like your cell phone, camera, and keys on a security table before walking through.
Step 7: Using Your Camera Responsibly
Even when your camera is permitted, remember to use it respectfully.
7.1: Don't Be That Person
Ensure your photography does not interfere with other guests' enjoyment of the event. This means:
Don't block views.
Avoid using flash photography, especially during live events or performances, as it can be distracting and rude.
Be mindful of those around you.
7.2: Personal Use Only
The permission to bring a camera is for personal, non-commercial use only. If you're looking to capture content for commercial purposes, you'll need official media credentials.
Conclusion: Snap Away (Responsibly)!
Bringing a camera to MetLife Stadium is possible, but it requires adherence to specific rules, particularly regarding lens length and bag policy. By following these guidelines, you can capture fantastic memories of your experience without any unwelcome surprises at the gates. Enjoy the event!
FAQs: How to Navigate MetLife Stadium's Camera Rules
How to know if my camera lens is 6 inches or less?
Simply measure your camera lens from the front of the lens to the camera body (when fully retracted for zoom lenses). If it's 6 inches or shorter, it generally meets the criteria.
How to bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera to MetLife Stadium?
You can bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera only if the lens attached is 6 inches or less in length. Remember, no professional cameras with longer or interchangeable lenses beyond this limit, and no separate camera bags.
How to carry my permitted camera into the stadium?
Your permitted camera must be carried in an approved clear bag (12" x 6" x 12" or smaller) or a small clutch purse (4.5" x 6.5" or smaller). You cannot bring a dedicated camera bag.
How to check for event-specific camera policies?
Always visit the official MetLife Stadium website and look for the specific event you're attending. They usually have a "Know Before You Go" or Guest Policies section that will highlight any special restrictions.
How to avoid issues at security with my camera?
Measure your lens beforehand, ensure it's in an approved clear bag, and be prepared to remove it for inspection at the security checkpoint.
How to tell if a camera is considered "professional" by MetLife Stadium?
While not always explicitly defined, "professional" generally refers to large cameras with interchangeable lenses significantly longer than 6 inches, and equipment like tripods or monopods. If it looks like something a media photographer would use, it's likely prohibited.
How to bring a GoPro camera to MetLife Stadium?
Handheld digital or film cameras, including GoPros, are permitted as long as their use doesn't interfere with others. However, accessories like "selfie sticks" and tripods are not allowed with GoPros.
How to handle battery-operated clothing or accessories with cameras?
While not directly camera-related, MetLife Stadium does allow battery-operated clothing if the battery is no larger than a cell phone (3"x6"x1"). For any electronic device, batteries must be disconnected from the clothing/device and placed on the security table during entry screening.
How to get media credentials for professional photography?
If you intend to take photos for commercial or media purposes, you'll need to apply for official media credentials through the event organizer or the teams involved well in advance. This is a separate process from general admission.
How to take photos and videos with my phone at MetLife Stadium?
Yes, cell phones are generally permitted for still photography and short video clips for personal use. Just be mindful of those around you and avoid blocking views or using excessive flash.
