White House Ends Photography Ban for Tourists

The White House ended restrictions on having visitors take photographs while on a tour of the presidential mansion last week and is taking active steps to encourage photography and the sharing of photos taken there.

The ban was put in place less for security reasons than for fear of the damage that flash photography could do to artwork and that tours could be delayed as visitors stopped for pictures.

Some restrictions remain, however.  Visitors may take photographs using smartphones with built-in cameras as well as with cameras with lenses no larger than 3” in length.  Video cameras, tablets, tripods, selfie sticks, as well as flash photography are still prohibited.

Signs reading “Photography is encouraged” and “Use the hashtag #WhiteHouseTour to share your experience” greet visitors upon arrival.

(Photo: Accura Media Group)