Question about Washington DC Trip - Monuments

[byarger]

I'm going to DC in a few weeks (lived there for several years at one point, but it was over twenty years ago) and will be shooting pics of my dad at the WW II memorial (he will be on an "Honor Flight" from Ohio). I wanted to find out from anyone who has been there recently how the "tolerance" of photogs around the monuments is currently - post 911.

Any places that are off limits to so-called professional looking photographers around the national mall? I'm going to spend an extra day or so up there and try to see some other sights. Any other concerns?


Thanks,


Bob Y

[picman]

I was there during the summer two years ago. Folks with all types of cameras shooting all over - no problems anywhere. However, I don't think a tripod would be a good idea - just too many people milling about.

As a FYI, if you do one of the monument tours, check to see if they spend enough time at each one for you. We did the night tour - very scenic, however, felt rushed.

[carrbowl]

we were just there this summer. There were people with tripods there....Didn't see anyone with lights set up, but they have guards and such everywhere. I doubt you will have a problem.

[gvaughn]

The only issues we had two summers ago were that we couldn't use tripods inside the monuments, and the guards asked (told) me not to use the tripod on the Capitol grounds. It was ok to walk across the street towards the Lawn and use it though. I will say the guards were very courteous in each case.

[lfmerrell]

DC an alternative monument: Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is a United States National Historical Park located in the District of Columbia and the states of Maryland and West Virginia. The park was established as a National Monument in 1961 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in order to preserve the neglected remains of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal along the Potomac River along with many of the original canal structures. The canal and towpath trail extends from Georgetown, Washington, D.C. to Cumberland, Maryland, a distance of 184.5 miles (296.9*km).

My daughters and a then eleven year old grandson did the tourist experience history thing which included riding on a "original" canal barge towed by two mules walking the towpath. *Truly enjoyed by all.*
As usual YMMV

[byarger]

Thanks, everyone. I figured tripods would be an issue, but I'm packing light this trip. And thanks for reminding me about the Canal. I used to shoot along there when I lived in Maryland. I might try again this trip.

[revjvegas]

Looking forward to seeing your pictures.

The wife and I are going there in November to spend a few days.

[Fishshooter]

Make sure to visit Arlington National Cemetary. I worked alot of ceremonies there when I was in the USAF. Most beautiful and special place in the DC area.

[Jim Boyd]

I was there this spring, and had no problems. When I was inside he Lincoln memorial, I asked the guards if I could use a tripod, and they had no problem with it at all. The WWII memorial is great, but you need to shoot it at dusk. When it gets too dark it's more difficult.

When I was there in April they were tearing up the mall area, but they may have completed that work by now. They drained the reflective pond. Good luck.

[lfmerrell]

Lived in the DC/Baltimore area 1969-71. Fascinating place.
While located 65-70 miles from DC, Harpers Ferry is the one location I felt the history most palpable and not touristy. Been a long time since visiting there. YMMV.

[carrbowl]

I'm sorry I didn't make it clear...yes the tripods were literally in the monument area...in fact one guy seemed to be taking photos of people as they were walking by. He was not taking monument photos...I watched for a long time. No one said a word to him.

[revjvegas]

Technically I believe the rule is, from what I've read recently in prep for my upcoming trip, is that tripods are not allowed in the monument area beginning on the marble steps.

Of course it all depends on the mood of the guard that is there really. Density of people will probably also play a role in what they'll let you get away with. When in doubt, I'd opt to ask the attending guard.

What I've also seen mentioned a lot is that a table top tripod is recommended over a full size because it will get less noticed....not to mention easier to lug around too.

Just fyi.