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White House lifts ban on photos during public tours

July 2, 2015

For the first time in four decades, visitors can take pictures in the White House in the US capital. Scores of photos were posted on social media the day after the ban was lifted.

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USA - Fotografieren ist im Weißen Haus nun erlaubt
Image: picture-alliance/dpa

Visitors to the White House are free to take pictures and record videos for the first time in 40 years. First Lady Michelle Obama made the announcement on Wednesday via Instagram. In fact, visitors are now being greeted by a sign that states "Photography is Encouraged."

The no-photo rule was instituted to protect valuable art work from potential damage caused by flashing lights. But now pictures may be taken with smartphones, and compact cameras that have lenses no longer than 8 cm. Large cameras, tripods and selfie-sticks, however, are still verboten.

And while the White House has relaxed its policy with regard to picture-taking, the fence surrounding the grounds has been modified to deter intruders. In 2014 a man managed to climb over the fence and run into the building.

ak/ks/mj (AP, Reuters)