Nightclub Photography

[ex_reven]

Just wondering if anyone has had any experiences in taking their DSLR into nightclubs?

Has anyone been rejected entry because of the DSLR?
Spilt drinks etc.

[gstark]

Define "nightclub". Most of the places I go to are more of the pub, rather than nightclub variety.

I'm somewhat well known on the Sydney jazz and blues scenes, and I'm usually able to take my D300 with battery grip into most venues I attend.

I've only had problems once, at The Basement, where I was actually attending as a guest of the performer and her promoters. The basement's management were the ones who were objecting, I suspect at the prodding of the ABC TV crew.

Other places have never presented me any issues, but you should always be prepared to be nice and cooperative: you are on their (private) property and they have the right to ask you to cease and desist, and/or kick you out.

Also, be aware of what you have with you, and where you are keeping it. In dark clubs and pubs, and especially if the venue is not known to you, all manner of problems might arise if you're not careful.

[ex_reven]

Define "nightclub". Most of the places I go to are more of the pub, rather than nightclub variety.

I'm somewhat well known on the Sydney jazz and blues scenes, and I'm usually able to take my D300 with battery grip into most venues I attend.

I've only had problems once, at The Basement, where I was actually attending as a guest of the performer and her promoters. The basement's management were the ones who were objecting, I suspect at the prodding of the ABC TV crew.

Other places have never presented me any issues, but you should always be prepared to be nice and cooperative: you are on their (private) property and they have the right to ask you to cease and desist, and/or kick you out.

Also, be aware of what you have with you, and where you are keeping it. In dark clubs and pubs, and especially if the venue is not known to you, all manner of problems might arise if you're not careful.

Nightclubs. Kings Cross sort of clubs/lounges packed thickly of people. Enough light to see by but not enough to photograph in without high ISO or bounce flash. Generally in crowds i tuck the camera under my arm with the shoulder strap on, and keep my jacket over that, as usually theres little need for getting it out quickly and it keeps it covered. Never tried taking it to a REAL club though, stuff like Chinese Laundry, La Favela, World Bar, SOHO bar.

[Nnnnsic]

I've taken the D60 into a few clubs & bars before in the Cross, but I doubt I'd get in with anything larger. I think, to be honest, that sexism is still well and truly alive and that if you happen to be a girl, you've got more chance of getting in with a "pro-looking camera" than a guy... but perhaps that's just the paranoia kicking in.

[dviv]

Chinese Laundry, La Favela, World Bar, SOHO bar.

I've taken my 40D with grip into the Chinese Laundry a few times and not had a problem.

Each time I've made sure to get there early - before it gets busy (ie the cover charge starts) and walked in with the camera in it's bag to be as subtle as possible.

Agree with Gary about keeping an eye on your equipment - some clubs can get... interesting when you're carrying a camera.