The Desk appreciates the support of readers who purchase products or services through links on our website. Learn more...

Smithsonian bans “selfie sticks” in museums, gardens

Photo of author
By:
»

mkeys@thedesk.net

Share:
President Barack Obama takes a "selfie." (Photo: BuzzFeed)
President Barack Obama takes a “selfie.” (Photo: BuzzFeed)

If you plan on visiting any of the Smithsonian’s museums after today, you’ll want to leave your selfie sticks at home.

The Smithsonian announced an update to its policy on Tuesday that bans the vanity cameraphone tool at its 19 museums and gardens.

“This is a preventive measure to protect visitors and objects, especially during crowded conditions,” the Smithsonian said in a press release.

The Smithsonian already prohibits visitors from taking photos using other camera equipment such as monopods and tripods. The organization encourages “museum visitors to take selfies and share their experiences,” but without the use of additional equipment going forward.

Several New York City museums have already banned selfie sticks from their premises, citing similar concerns over the safety of artifacts.

 

Never miss a story

Get free breaking news alerts and twice-weekly digests delivered to your inbox.

We do not share your e-mail address with third parties; you can unsubscribe at any time.

Photo of author

About the Author:

Matthew Keys

Matthew Keys is the award-winning founder and editor of TheDesk.net, an authoritative voice on broadcast and streaming TV, media and tech. With over ten years of experience, he's a recognized expert in broadcast, streaming, and digital media, with work featured in publications such as StreamTV Insider and Digital Content Next, and past roles at Thomson Reuters and Disney-ABC Television Group.
TheDesk.net is free to read — please help keep it that way.

We rely on advertising revenue to support our original journalism and analysis.
Please disable your ad-blocking technology to continue enjoying our content.

Learn how to disable your ad blocker on: Chrome | Firefox | Safari | Microsoft Edge | Opera | AdBlock plugin

Alternatively, add us as a preferred source on Google to unlock access to this website.

If you think this is an error, please contact us.