NHL Game #0262, Sharks Game #17, Home Game #06

I was not allowed to bring my camera (Canon EOS 20D with an EF 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6 USM lens) into the game. I had to either go back to my car and leave the camera there or I could leave my camera in the event office until after the game. I chose to leave the camera in the event office with the man in the blue coat. I was told that the NHL forbids any camera with an interchangeable lens from being allowed in to the games without a press pass. I have in the past been allowed into the games because they said my lens was less than six inches long. I have been to the NHL web site and I cannot find any such rule.

On Sunday, November 13, 2005, I sent the following email to the Sharks.
"I would like to know the rules regarding the type of camera a fan may bring into a Sharks game for
personal use. I was not permitted to bring in my Canon 20D to yesterdays game when the Sharks played
the Dallas Stars. I was told that the NHL does not allow interchangeable lens cameras in to the
games. I went to the NHL web site and could not find any information about this. Please send me any
information you may have and possibly a list of approved cameras that I may bring to a game.
Thank you"

Monday November 14, 2005
I received an email today from Ken Sweezey, Director of Guest Service, HP Pavilion at San Jose stating
"Still cameras (film or digital) are allowed as long as the lens length in less than six inches so as
not to block other guest's view. No video cameras are permitted."

So beware of the BLUE COATS!

At the January 24, 2006 game, signs were posted on the doors stating that Audio and Video recorders are prohibited and cameras are allowed as long as the lens does not exceed six inches in length.