OK, obviously the Security Guard was gung-ho or a complete moron. That being said, Universal has big signs in the concert area saying no photography. When I went there to see Pat Benatar, this older couple using a wheelchair as a shopping cart, barged their way towards the front and began setting up a tripod and a very nice digital camera. A security guard came along and told them it was prohibited and then pointed to the signs. During the concert, tons of people were taking hand held pictures. At one point Pat Benatar said "you can take pictures, I Don't care".
There are two factors here, one is the tripod is a trip hazard and during busier times, it's best to leave it at home. Second, the no photo rule for name acts is from the performer and not Universal. They are copyrighted, this includes the performers appearance, stage set and lighting. You can't take pictures at movies and theatres for the same reason.
Throw in the fact that Universal is a private place, you have to pay to gain entry, they can control everything they want. With digital cameras becoming more and more affordable and sites like flickr etc. the average guest can now become a money making photographer. Unfortunately, Universal and Disney are seeing profits they could be making, now being usurped by self publishing sites. Toyko
Disneyland has Officially banned tripods from the park.
As a photographer this is frustrating but legal. You are allowed to photograph anything that can be seen from the outside. But since the early 90's even architecture has been protected by copyright. If you really just want some good pictures of a favorite band, get there early, bring a handheld camera with a good, fast lens (my little Sony DSC is pretty decent as long as the stage is brightly lit and I focus real close) and don't be obnoxious.
You'll poke your eye out kid!
