I've decided i fancy a bash at photography for a hobby and was basically wondering what the rules were. This would be purely a hobby rather than to sell images or whatever but i know problems can arise from taking a camera into a family event. Can anyone help with this such as Mr Belly and others?

Can't speak for the HJ, but a mate of mine tried to take some pictures at the LSV but was told he wasn't allowed to use his camera as it was "professional". When he asked the steward to define what a professional camera is, he replied it has "twisty bits on"...

Been meaning to use my SLR at the rugby for a while but never got round to it. Might ask someone tomorrow what the rules are whilst it is on my mind.

I don't think they like you using a DSLR without permission. You are not allowed to photograph children at all - ask all the parents and grandparents that are not allowed to photograph the school teams!

Yeah thats what concerned me, im purely interested in the action shots i can get (like fatbellys i suppose) but i realise you have to be careful.

Is it worth seeing how much it would cost you to get accreditation as a photographer? Maybe that would ease the problems of access to the sports pitches?

Like i say its just a hobby, haven't even purchased my own camera yet but knowing the rules and regs with regards to this would help me with the equipment i was to get.

I'd ask Fatbelly like you say, maybe send him a pm.

Cameras are supposedly banned in the stands at all professional games whether that be a slimline or and slr of some kind.

The only way that you can take pictures is if you get rfl accreditation.

At junior rugby, you need to be CRB checked by the club you are involved with and up to under 13s have the permission of both teams to take them.

any ideas on where to get a link for this google does not seem to be helping atm.

How is me taking a picture on my SLR any different top someone else standing there with a compact?

I have been stopped from taking photos at quite a few grounds, the reason being as you said I had a "proffesional camera" At each ground they said it was ok to use a compact camera or a camera phone. The grounds that stopped me include, Wigan, St.Helens, Huddersfield, Warrington and Leigh.

I have taken photos before for a nightschool project of Latchford Albion v Wigan St Judes (1st teams, not kids). I simply asked one of the Latchford officials beforehand who OK'd it. You would probably find it easier to photograph the amateur game rather than the pros anyway as you have far more ability to move round the pitch. Great technique practice.

I really enjoyed the experience, but for one reason or another I never repeated it. Maybe I should have another go sometime.

My daughter was stopped taking photos at the HJ with a small digital camera. Guess it was just a steward being tough on a young girl.

Funny you mention this...
These from today. Was lucky to tag along with a wbc led group learning Sports Photography...Foundation too


Was interesting having a go and without the pressure of learning at a first team game, where the situation isn't ideal (action all over pitch).
Think that's the important part, lots of practise no pressure, but all photography can be fun.

Majority of amateur teams will be more than happy to accommodate you and take photos for them.