I've flown some of the budget airlines and I've often been challenged to put cameras away during taxi, takeoff and landing. If the camera is large and looks heavy I think there is a rule about stowing such items during takeoff and landing in case it flies across the cabin and brains someone when you overshoot the runway and end up in a reservoir.
I'm not sure if this is just a discretionary rule or whether it's supposed to be applied to all movements in the UK. Perhaps someone can clarify.
The strange thing is, the more expensive airlines like Virgin, BA etc don't tend to mind, even if you're taking video out the window. I took some decent video in March flying to LA in Virgin economy.
If you're asked not to use your camera, never argue with them even if you think they're wrong. Smile sweetly and do as you're told.
I remember during the great storm of October 87, we were returning to LGW from Crete late that evening. I was listening to ATC on a Sony Air 7 I had. They didn't bat an eyelid. I wonder how many airlines would allow you to do that now.
That was an approach and landing I'll never forget. LGW was closed soon after we arrived.
Luca