Tina Turner!!

Back in February I bought my Pentax and a Sigma long zoom in readiness for a TT live concert at the O2 Arena, beginning of March. As I entered the Arena, the usual security check was examining all bags including my photo kit.

They found my camera and asked, "is the lens on this camera detachable?" I of course said it was so I was banned from taking it in as I "could be a professional photographer". I protested saying that millions of amateur photographers worldwide had cameras with detachable lenses but to no avail, it was locked away.

TT was fantastic (at nearly 70) but I did have my little pocket camera hidden away Anyone else had this problem at live concerts?

I've never taken a camera to a concert but have seen security guards confiscating all types of cameras when at the doors, especially at the MEN arena.

I wouldn't risk taking a DSLR to a gig (or at least one of that significance at an Arena- type venue). Situations like that are what the x70 were made for, no?

...Been interested in getting one of those maybe...

I don't have an X70 but do have a Fuji S8000. Almost as good and you can't detach the lens

I personally don't know what the problem is with security guards

You could walk in with a compact with quite a powerful built in flash and no one would bat an eye lid about it.

You use your intiative and actually take a camera that you can get decent pitures from and they take it off you.

I would never use flash at such an event, in fact not keen on flash at any time. The annoying thing was I did see other cameras with "detachable lenses" in use at the concert but I suppose with 20,000 fans to check, some are bound to get through!

I did, however, capture some quite good shots (and movies) on my Panasonic FX35 as was quite close to the stage

When I go to a concert, and I primarily go to small venues, I call them the day before to ask them if it is allowed to take pictures.
I didn't have a problem with it yet, but I don't use a flash to keep a low profile.
But I have found a downside and that is that I am busier taking pictures then enjoying the concert so lately I have been leaving it home.

I too phoned the venue before I went, to be told that I could take photos but no mention was made as to how sophisticated or otherwise the camera should be!! Many people were using flash that would just about light up the back of the head of the person in front of them

I agree, taking photos can interfere with one's own enjoyment!

I never take a camera - I have seen too many thrown in a bin before the owners were admitted. In this day and age with phone cameras flashing all around me it does get frustrating, but I would not risk it. Just be grateful they locked your camera away safely and you got it back again.