I've read all the official websites and there is some confusion on other web sites regarding what is allowed in Olympic venues. I need a report from someone who has actually been to an event. Are spectators with SLR cameras, the cameras with interchangeable lenses, being allowed into Olympic venues? Are small backpacks also being allowed? Thanks

I've been to three venues now (Fencing Hall, Birds Nest and Water Cube) and I have brought in a Nikon D300 and two lenses - 18-200 and 12-24. Security was extremely strict for the Opening and I had trouble getting these through but did eventually succeed.

Since then, security is more relaxed and I've had no problems. It appears that "professional lenses" are not allowed. I take this to mean lenses that look very long (such as anything covering 300-500mm, or large lesser length lenses that have good apertures as they are generally large).

As for backpacks, again the strictness of the Opening has been relaxed. My advice would be to bring a small backpack - a medium one could be risky. If you are having problems, just empty the pack and carry everything on you - scrunch the bag as small as possible and get through security. Once you are passed this area, put everything back in as nobody else seems to care how big your bag is.

Thanks for the info. I'll be there soon!!!

Update: Just visited the shooting venue with the same equipment - no issues at all. I only had to take a photo of the ground with the camera to show security that it is actually a working piece of photographic equipment. Small backpacks were no problem either.