Soldier Field's Tv Cameras: Where Are They Pointed?

Soldier Field in Chicago has strict rules about what can be brought into the stadium. Professional cameras and video recording devices are not permitted without the user holding proper media credentials. Photos cannot be used for any commercial purpose without express written consent. Cameras with lenses over 6 are not permitted. Cases for cameras and binoculars are also prohibited. All guests entering Soldier Field will be searched and have their belongings scanned.

Camera lenses at Soldier Field

If you're planning to bring a camera to Soldier Field, it's important to know the rules and regulations to ensure a smooth experience. Here are some detailed guidelines regarding camera lenses:

• Camera Lens Restrictions: Soldier Field has specific restrictions on camera lenses for the safety and security of guests and to prevent disruption to events. Camera lenses must not exceed 6 inches when fully extended. This rule applies to both professional and personal cameras.
• Security Measures: All guests entering Soldier Field will undergo a security check, including a scan of their belongings. Security personnel may measure camera lenses to ensure compliance with the 6-inch limit. It is recommended to leave lens hoods in your vehicle, as some security staff may include them in the overall length measurement.
• Prohibited Items: In addition to the lens restriction, it's important to note that camera bags are prohibited. Only certain types and sizes of personal bags are permitted, following the NFL's clear bag policy. Guests are advised to hang their cameras around their necks, and any camera cases will not be allowed inside.
• Professional Equipment: Professional cameras and video recording devices are typically not permitted without proper media credentials. This includes video or movie cameras, which are listed as prohibited items.
• Photography Guidelines: While there are restrictions on camera lenses and equipment, handheld binoculars are allowed inside Soldier Field. This can be a good alternative for those looking to get a closer view of the action.
• Venue Policies: Soldier Field's primary goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for all guests. Guests are expected to follow the Guest Code of Conduct, which includes behaving responsibly and refraining from unruly or inconsiderate behavior. Violation of these rules may result in ejection from the stadium and potential loss of ticket privileges.

Spectator cameras vs. broadcast cameras

Spectator cameras and broadcast cameras differ in several ways, from their design and functionality to the regulations surrounding their use. Spectator cameras are typically designed for personal use, allowing individuals to capture photos or videos of their experiences at events such as sports games or concerts at venues like Soldier Field. On the other hand, broadcast cameras are high-end professional devices used for creating electronic moving images for television broadcasts or other forms of media production.

Spectator Cameras

Spectator cameras can vary widely in terms of their specifications and features. At sports venues like Soldier Field, spectators are usually allowed to bring hand-held binoculars and cameras, but there are restrictions on the length of camera lenses. This restriction is in place to prevent professional-grade equipment from being used by spectators, as it could obstruct the view of other guests or interfere with the official broadcast. Spectator cameras are typically smaller and more compact, making them easier to carry and manoeuvre in crowded spaces.

Broadcast Cameras

Broadcast cameras, on the other hand, are much more sophisticated and specialised. They are designed to capture high-quality footage that can be broadcast live or edited for television, movies, music videos, or other forms of media. These cameras have larger lenses and more advanced features, such as interchangeable lenses, manual focus, and remote control capabilities. Broadcast cameras are often mounted on tripods, dollies, cranes, or robotic dollies to ensure stability and smooth footage. They are also connected to a camera control unit (CCU) that allows for precise control of various functions, including exposure, timing, and video and black levels.

Usage and Regulations

The use of spectator cameras and broadcast cameras is governed by different sets of regulations. Spectator cameras, being intended for personal use, are subject to the rules and regulations of the venue or event organisers. For example, at Soldier Field, spectators are allowed to bring hand-held binoculars and cameras, but professional cameras and video recording devices are prohibited without proper media credentials. Broadcast cameras, on the other hand, are subject to industry standards and broadcasting regulations. They are typically operated by trained professionals and are positioned in designated areas to ensure optimal coverage of the event.

In conclusion, spectator cameras and broadcast cameras serve different purposes and cater to distinct user groups. Spectator cameras offer individuals the ability to capture personal memories and share their experiences, while broadcast cameras are designed for professional media production and distribution to a wider audience. Each type of camera comes with its own set of features, regulations, and considerations, ensuring that events like those held at Soldier Field can be enjoyed and captured in a variety of ways.

Camera bag restrictions

For all events at Soldier Field, the NFL Clear Bag Policy is in place. This means that only certain types and sizes of personal bags or containers are allowed into the stadium. Camera bags are included in the list of prohibited bags, along with purses larger than a small clutch bag, coolers, briefcases, backpacks, fanny packs, cinch bags, luggage of any kind, seat cushions, strollers, computer bags, diaper bags, and any bag larger than the permissible size.

The permissible bags include:

• Clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags that do not exceed 12" x 6" x 12" or 30.5 x 15.25 x 30.5 cm. This includes clear backpacks, clear fanny packs, and clear cinch bags that fit within the permissible dimensions. No buckles, grommets, hardware, or decor can be concealing any part of the bag, and the logo can only be on one side.
• One-gallon clear plastic freezer bags (Ziploc bag or similar).
• Small clutch bags that are 4.5" x 1" x 6.5" with or without a handle or strap. These can be carried into the stadium along with one of the clear bag options.

It is important to note that all bags are subject to search upon entry into Soldier Field, and guests may be asked to open their bags for inspection and remove their contents. Additionally, the stadium strongly encourages fans not to bring any type of bag to the stadium.

Camera restrictions at other NFL venues

Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta

The stadium's camera policy states: "Guests may bring hand-held still-photo or video cameras to capture the special moments from their visit to [the] Stadium. Feel free to ask any stadium staff member to snap a picture of your group. The following items are not permitted inside the stadium: professional cameras with zoom lenses greater than 200mm or larger than six inches in length."

Arizona Cardinals Stadium

Fans are allowed to bring "personal still-photo cameras to capture the special moments from their visit to [the Stadium]. Feel free to ask any stadium staff member to snap a picture of your group." Video cameras (single-purpose), mono/tripods and professional cameras with zoom lenses larger than eight inches in length are prohibited. Video recording by any device is prohibited without prior written consent.

M&T Bank Stadium, Baltimore

Small still photography cameras are permitted, with zoom lenses no longer than 6 inches. Video cameras are strictly prohibited. The league prohibits the video taping of any game unless written authorization has been obtained.

Bank of America Stadium, Carolina

Small still cameras are permitted. Video cameras are not permitted. Tripods or any other similar equipment that could be a tripping hazard are also not allowed.

FirstEnergy Stadium, Cleveland

Cameras and video cameras (camcorders) are allowed, but must not interfere with another fan’s enjoyment of the game. The images reproduced may not be used commercially. Video cameras may not be used to reproduce the game.

NRG Stadium, Houston

A camera policy is determined by each show and varies from event to event. Small, point-and-shoot cameras are allowed for Houston Texans events. No audio or video recorders are allowed for any event.

Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis

The use of cameras and video equipment inside the stadium will be determined by the event promoter. Video cameras are prohibited for all Indianapolis Colts home games. Cameras with lenses longer than four inches are prohibited.

TIAA Bank Field, Jacksonville

Cameras with detachable lenses or lenses longer than six inches are prohibited.

Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City

Video cameras or professional cameras are prohibited. Small still cameras are permitted, as long as they are carried or in a clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bag measuring 12" x 6" x 12" or less. The bag and small still camera are subject to inspection. Tripods, monopods, and camera lenses longer than 6" (detachable or non-detachable) are not permitted.

SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles

Guests may not bring professional photographic equipment into the facility. Guests are also prohibited from engaging in commercial photography of any kind. Cameras with interchangeable lenses and cameras with lenses greater than 3½ inches in length are prohibited. Guests may not bring any types of audio/video recording devices into the facility.

Lumen Field, Seattle

Hand-held digital or film cameras, including Go Pro cameras, are permitted inside the stadium as long as their use does not interfere with other guests' enjoyment of the event. Tripods, monopods, "selfie sticks" and cameras with a lens longer than 6" (detachable or non-detachable) are not permitted. Video cameras and video recording of events with other devices at the stadium are prohibited.

Raymond James Stadium, Tampa Bay

Cameras longer than 12 inches (including body, lens and filter) are not permitted; camera bags and cases are not permitted. Video recorders and GoPros are prohibited. Policies may vary per event without notice.

Nissan Stadium, Tennessee

Still cameras are permitted in the stadium for football games; however, a camera cannot be carried into the stadium in its own bag. Stadium security personnel also reserve the right to confiscate professional-size zoom lenses at their discretion. Video cameras are not permitted at any time (except for working media with credentials at the designated Media Gate).

Soldier Field, Chicago

Hand-held binoculars are permitted. Professional cameras and video recording devices are not permitted in the stadium without the user holding proper media credentials. Photos cannot be used for any commercial purpose without the express written consent. Cameras with lenses over 6" are not permitted. Camera and binocular cases are not permitted.

Cameras vs. binoculars

Cameras and binoculars are both optical devices that can be used to enhance your viewing experience at Soldier Field. However, there are some important differences between the two that you should consider before deciding which one to bring.

Cameras

According to Soldier Field's website, professional cameras and video recording devices are not permitted inside the stadium without proper media credentials. Cameras with lenses over 6 inches are also prohibited. This means that if you want to bring a camera, it should be a basic consumer model rather than a professional DSLR, and it should have a lens that is less than 6 inches long. Keep in mind that security may inspect your camera and they will not allow camera cases inside the stadium.

Binoculars

Hand-held binoculars are permitted inside Soldier Field. If you plan to bring binoculars, make sure they are compact and lightweight, as you will need to carry them and hold them up to your eyes for extended periods. Binoculars with a wide field of view and a magnification of at least 6X are recommended for football games. Waterproof binoculars are also a good idea in case of rain, and a rubber coating will protect them from bumps and falls.

Comparison

Both cameras and binoculars can provide a closer view of the action at Soldier Field. Cameras have the advantage of allowing you to capture memories that you can review and share later. However, they may be more cumbersome to carry and use, and you will need to be careful not to violate any restrictions regarding camera type and lens size. Binoculars, on the other hand, are generally smaller and easier to manage, and they provide a real-time viewing experience without the distraction of taking photos or videos.

Ultimately, the decision of whether to bring a camera or binoculars depends on your personal preferences and how you want to engage with the game. If you want to capture specific moments to look back on later, a camera might be the best choice. But if you want to stay focused on the live action as it unfolds, binoculars could be the better option.

Frequently asked questions