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Michelle Obama shares some 'big news' on Instagram

First lady Michelle Obama just used Instagram to announce an end to the ban on photos during White House tours.
U.S. first lady Michelle Obama enters the East Room for a session of a Fashion Education Workshop at the White House on Oct. 8, 2014 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Alex Wong/Getty)
U.S. first lady Michelle Obama enters the East Room for a session of a Fashion Education Workshop at the White House on Oct. 8, 2014 in Washington, D.C.

First lady Michelle Obama shared some news about the White House on Wednesday.

"Starting today, we’re lifting the ban on cameras and photos on the @WhiteHouse public tour," the first lady announced on Instagram. "Visitors are now able to take photos and keep those memories for a lifetime!"

The announcement ends a 40-year ban on photos, and visitors touring the White House can now use social media and take pictures with cell phones and still cameras.

In two hours, Michelle Obama's Instagram post has garnered more than 23,300 "likes" and more than 1,500 comments. 

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But before rushing to polish up that selfie stick for an epic post at the White House, it should be noted that not all camera prohibitions have been lifted. Tablets are still banned, as are video cameras (including action camcorders), cameras with detachable lenses, tripods, monopods and camera sticks. Flash photography and live-streaming also remain prohibited.