Selfie lovers will now be able to snap themselves in the US president's residence, after the White House lifted a decades-old ban on photography.

The rule was literally ripped up on Wednesday by Michelle Obama, who posted a video of herself tearing up a sign.

Visitors will now be able to use smart phones or small cameras on guided tours of the famous Washington landmark.

But serious selfie lovers beware - selfie sticks are still banned, as are larger professional style cameras.

"If you've been on a White House tour, you may have seen this sign," Michelle said in the short video, holding up a sign that reads: "No photos or social media allowed. Your co-operation is appreciated."

"Well, not anymore," she said, before tearing the sign in half.

And many of Wednesday's visitors took full advantage, tweeting pictures of the house and grounds.