traveling with expensive gear to a dangerous place. tips? ideas? thoughts?

mjkshots · Aug 19, 2014

I am leaving on a trip to a pretty sketchy place that is known for thievery, robbery, hold-ups hostage situations and has sent tourists home with horror stories. It is a beautiful place and has lots of potential for great photos. I know other people have used high end long lenses there and not been robbed so I plan to give it a go and bring a 300mm f2.8l non IS lens, also a 1.4x and a t.c. 2x I do need to have a long lens for the subjects I am going to shoot. I will also take with me a 28-200mm usm lens as well.

I have traveled to similar locations with the same hazards and pulled it off in the past, I am taking as much precaution to prevent any issues. I am learning the language better, I am not a flashy person and I am quite and respectful I tend to get along with most people and any studying the area a little bit here and there to get some local knowledge and know some history of the places I will be staying. But as for my camera and lenses they say money... I have made a new hood that is a bit smaller and lighter I attached camo tape and will do the same with my lens and maybe the camera body as well. I am hoping to make the gear look a bit more worthless, less attractive or appealing to anyone. In the past I have thrown a shirt over the camera/lens to keep in unexposed, this seems to work but when shooting it's obvious I am using a camera, anyone have any good travel tips. I have contemplated only taking a smaller less expensive lens but I really don't want to sacrifice I.Q. as I might never go back to this location and want to get the best shots I can.

do you have some good tips to stay behind my lens and out of harms way?

Thanks a bunch!

-mike
mjkshots.com

KENTGA · Aug 19, 2014

Mike,

Is this for real? You need to be more specific about where you'll be going and whether you're in an area with lots of people or in the boonies. Will you be with a group? With a person or guide from the area? Can that person speak the language if it's not native to yours? Will you be sleeping in a secure location?

Kent

Schroedingers_cat · Aug 19, 2014

mjkshots said:
I am leaving on a trip to a pretty sketchy place that is known for thievery, robbery, hold-ups hostage situations and has sent tourists home with horror stories.

Sounds like Dallas

The subject comes up from time to time in the Nikon FX forum. Might try searching for old threads there.

I suspect that if you were to provide more specific information regarding the trip it might enable some more specific responses.

--
http://www.nightstreets.com
-
"Sick cultures show a complex of symptoms such as you have named...but a dying culture invariable exhibits personal rudeness. Bad manners. Lack of consideration for others in minor matters. A loss of politeness, of gentle manners is more significant than a riot."
This symptom is especially serious in that an individual displaying it never thinks of it as a sign of ill health but as proof of his/her strength. ...Friday, it is too late to save this culture--this worldwide culture... Therefore we must now prepare the monasteries for the coming Dark Age. Electronic records are too fragile..."
--Robert A. Heinlein in "Friday"

mjkshots · Aug 19, 2014

yup very much real, I will be traveling through heavily populated areas to get to a base camp where I will be set up in a room with a locking door I do have a eXomesh pac-safe so i can lock my bag to something and they wont be able to grab anything from within the pack without having to work extra hard. I suppose I should be ok but am looking for any good ideas as to shooting with a long lens without it being to noticeable, I will check the nikon forums and I appreciate the response

-mike
mjkshots.com

KENTGA · Aug 19, 2014

Mike,
Are you going to Africa, India or some other remote area? You don't have to tell us your exact trip, but more info would be great. I know I've read about one country, Cuba, say its impossible for stolen photo to get sold. We would appreciate a little more info about your trip and maybe we can offer more suggestions.

Kent

mjkshots · Aug 19, 2014

heading to south America . anyone got any ideas on making camera gear look like its worthless without causing permanent damage, maybe someone else that has experience in shooting in similar settings with a big lens can give me advice? :-|

FrankB2 · Aug 19, 2014

You mentioned you were taking a 300 f/2.8. I shoot with one almost every weekend. Good luck making that seem inconspicuous, no matter how much you try to cover it.

Actually, I have found way to make it disappear. Stand next to someone with a bigger lens. As I mentioned, I use my 300 almost every weekend, a Nikon (so it's black, with black neoprene LensCoat sleeves, on a monopod). I shoot at the San Diego Zoo, often with a few friends who also have big lenses. If I'm by myself people always notice the camera/lens, and often either comment or ask questions. When my friend Robert, who shoots with a Nikon 600 f/4.0 on a monopod stands next to me, I become invisible. Seriously. This has happened many times, if Robert is standing next to me, people will stand on the other side of me, and ask him questions as if I'm not even there.

I would say that I hope this helps, but I guess it probably won't.

Have a good trip, and try to stay safe.

mjkshots · Aug 19, 2014

lol thanks, funny stuff

I will look for fellow photogs and hopefully there will be someone with a 1200 5.6L lens around the area that would draw attention far from me :-D

its my life I care about more than the lenses, really just don't want to be a standout/target. Im pretty sure I will be just fine, just looking for some tips and ideas cant hurt. thiking life insurance is a good idea

Dheorl · Aug 20, 2014

Make sure every things insured and never worry about loosing gear to save your skin. Maybe try and swap memory cards out regularly/not keep them in the camera when not shooting so at least if you loose your gear you won't loose your shots.

KENTGA · Aug 20, 2014

Would you consider giving up some IQ for a smaller lens like Sigma, Tamron or Nikon super zoom? I've used one when trying to shoot people on streets or in public squares and don't get near the attention of my white Canon teles. Another thought is to get a slightly larger than a P & S super zoom camera like Panasonic FZ 200. Or at least use the above in the inner city. Does the hotel in the city have a safe?

Kent

MVDH · Aug 20, 2014

mjkshots said:
heading to south America . anyone got any ideas on making camera gear look like its worthless without causing permanent damage, maybe someone else that has experience in shooting in similar settings with a big lens can give me advice? :-|

Osvaldo Cristo · Aug 20, 2014

mjkshots said:
I am leaving on a trip to a pretty sketchy place that is known for thievery, robbery, hold-ups hostage situations and has sent tourists home with horror stories. [...]

do you have some good tips to stay behind my lens and out of harms way?

When travelling in those not-so-secure places, firstly I avoid to assume an appearance of a rich tourist (key words: rich and tourist). Low profile is a must IMO. Bring also a P&S just for the higher risk places - not for the equipment, but for your own personal security.

I also hire a local person as guide and bodyguard. It is not necessarily an armed gorilla (although it is not a bad idea at all). I hire taxi drivers to spend the day with me and to accompany myself at everyplace, included into churches and sanctuaries (the devil is everywhere ;-) ).

Another trick I used a few times, (at Marrakesh it made my day) is to be reasonably stationary in front of a police station - just be careful to avoid pictures from the police and their station as at some countries it is offensive... and there will be nobody to protect you against the police... :-(

Enjoy your trip!

Regards,

--
O.Cristo - An Amateur Photographer
Opinions of men are almost as various as their faces - so many men so many minds. B. Franklin

Sutherland · Aug 20, 2014

I agree with the suggestion to hire a local for the day, such as a taxi driver who should have a good knowledge of what is safe and what is not. The other obvious suggestion is to insure all your stuff.

FrankB2 · Aug 20, 2014

MVDH said:
mjkshots said:

heading to south America . anyone got any ideas on making camera gear look like its worthless without causing permanent damage, maybe someone else that has experience in shooting in similar settings with a big lens can give me advice? :-|

--
-mike
mjkshots.com

Click to expand...

Some time ago I saw an instructional video on the Kelbyone website where Scott Kelby gives some advise on this.

He advises to use black tape to cover the brand/type on the camera/lens.

Furthermore he advises to use a camera strap which does not show the camera brand CANON / NIKON / SONY...

He also advises to avoid using a camera bag: travel with one camera and one lens only. If a camera bag is needed use a camera bag which does not look like a camera bag and does not have brand on it that shouts out loud "I'm a camera bag"..

These all make perfect sense to me and don't need to cost much...

The video I mentioned is called "Shooting Travel Photos Like a Pro, Lesson 2: Gear Guide" on the Kelbyone website. http://kelbyone.com/player/skelby_travelphotography/#/gear-guide

Think you need to become a member to view these (you can get a one week free membership).

All good advice . . . until he puts that 300 f/2.8 on the camera. No way to hide that thing.

mjkshots · Aug 20, 2014

Dheorl said:
Make sure every things insured and never worry about loosing gear to save your skin. Maybe try and swap memory cards out regularly/not keep them in the camera when not shooting so at least if you loose your gear you won't loose your shots.

great tips thanks for that! taking multiple smaller capacity cards and mailing them home if its possible seems good but i dont think I will be going to a post office regularly haha ... but maybe just storing them somewhere in a low cost item like a hat or shirt? , I actually did insured my gear earlier in the year so I should be covered. THANSK Dheorl for the tips!

mjkshots · Aug 20, 2014

KENTGA said:
Would you consider giving up some IQ for a smaller lens like Sigma, Tamron or Nikon super zoom? I've used one when trying to shoot people on streets or in public squares and don't get near the attention of my white Canon teles. Another thought is to get a slightly larger than a P & S super zoom camera like Panasonic FZ 200. Or at least use the above in the inner city. Does the hotel in the city have a safe?

Kent

Hey Kent thanks for the advice on the superzooms I have considered taking only a cheaper zoom lens and also considered taking my 400mm 5.6l as it is lighter/smaller but is actually longer it is my usual standard travel tele lens, but I have decided I will be taking the 300mm and a 28-200mm canon usm lens that has decent IQ and great range also I can carry this lens attached to my body inside of my jacket pocket

I know if I bring only a lesser quality lens and come home without any hassles I will be kicking my self for being paranoid and not getting as good as shots as some of my gear will allow. I would like to get a new p&s with a huge zoom and range but my wallet is saying not gonna happen, some of the new ones that are coming out are looking pretty dang good I looked at I think a FUJI that had a 1200mm equivalent lens, bam!

thanks for the ideas Kent!

enlightphoto · Aug 20, 2014

Be 100% sure your photo gear is protected on International travel. For my business, that's an optional coverage rider. Also, is your insurance business or personal items.

IMO, if you're going to an area where your concern level is that noteworthy, then it's not worth the risk of attention for the IQ of the lens. You can rent a smaller 300 f4 and a teleconverter. Bump the ISO a stop if needed. I also use a regular old worn shoddy day pack, like kids use for school, and wrap my lenses in shirts. Don't carry a big tripod either. Look like a tourist, not a professional photographer. Previous commenter is correct, you carry that lens, no matter what you do or where you go, you'll be attracting attention (for better or worse). Yes, also if you're traveling with a laptop, carry an extra external USB HD and keep away from camera or computer bags.

Good luck.

mjkshots said:
Dheorl said:

Make sure every things insured and never worry about loosing gear to save your skin. Maybe try and swap memory cards out regularly/not keep them in the camera when not shooting so at least if you loose your gear you won't loose your shots.

Click to expand...

great tips thanks for that! taking multiple smaller capacity cards and mailing them home if its possible seems good but i dont think I will be going to a post office regularly haha ... but maybe just storing them somewhere in a low cost item like a hat or shirt? , I actually did insured my gear earlier in the year so I should be covered. THANSK Dheorl for the tips!

mjkshots · Aug 20, 2014

MVDH said:
mjkshots said:

heading to south America . anyone got any ideas on making camera gear look like its worthless without causing permanent damage, maybe someone else that has experience in shooting in similar settings with a big lens can give me advice? :-|

--
-mike
mjkshots.com

Click to expand...

Some time ago I saw an instructional video on the Kelbyone website where Scott Kelby gives some advise on this.

He advises to use black tape to cover the brand/type on the camera/lens.

Furthermore he advises to use a camera strap which does not show the camera brand CANON / NIKON / SONY...

He also advises to avoid using a camera bag: travel with one camera and one lens only. If a camera bag is needed use a camera bag which does not look like a camera bag and does not have brand on it that shouts out loud "I'm a camera bag"..

These all make perfect sense to me and don't need to cost much...

The video I mentioned is called "Shooting Travel Photos Like a Pro, Lesson 2: Gear Guide" on the Kelbyone website. http://kelbyone.com/player/skelby_travelphotography/#/gear-guide

Think you need to become a member to view these (you can get a one week free membership).

Thats what I am talking about! thanks for this link I will watch it for sure! I have taken lots of the same measures to hide logs from view, no camera straps or bags will come with me and my backpack is falling apart and I have to tie a buckle together on a side pocket(screams "I am broke!")

Its about as ugly as I could make it look, but for some reason It still looks so good! is that because its a canon

DIY canon 300 f2.8 hood, cap, lens coat, rain gear, camo duct tape, velcro blue tape, plastic container, sticky felt and super glue!

hood is collapsible, rain jacket sleeve with some padding some plastic (very strong) to protect the element, and some velcro made this cap come together, any additions?

--
-mike
mjkshots.com

mjkshots · Aug 20, 2014

Osvaldo Cristo said:
mjkshots said:

I am leaving on a trip to a pretty sketchy place that is known for thievery, robbery, hold-ups hostage situations and has sent tourists home with horror stories. [...]

do you have some good tips to stay behind my lens and out of harms way?

Click to expand...

When travelling in those not-so-secure places, firstly I avoid to assume an appearance of a rich tourist (key words: rich and tourist). Low profile is a must IMO. Bring also a P&S just for the higher risk places - not for the equipment, but for your own personal security.

I also hire a local person as guide and bodyguard. It is not necessarily an armed gorilla (although it is not a bad idea at all). I hire taxi drivers to spend the day with me and to accompany myself at everyplace, included into churches and sanctuaries (the devil is everywhere ;-) ).

Another trick I used a few times, (at Marrakesh it made my day) is to be reasonably stationary in front of a police station - just be careful to avoid pictures from the police and their station as at some countries it is offensive... and there will be nobody to protect you against the police... :-(

Enjoy your trip!

Regards,

mjkshots · Aug 20, 2014

enlightphoto said:
Be 100% sure your photo gear is protected on International travel. For my business, that's an optional coverage rider. Also, is your insurance business or personal items.
IMO, if you're going to an area where your concern level is that noteworthy, then it's not worth the risk of attention for the IQ of the lens. You can rent a smaller 300 f4 and a teleconverter. Bump the ISO a stop if needed. I also use a regular old worn shoddy day pack, like kids use for school, and wrap my lenses in shirts. Don't carry a big tripod either. Look like a tourist, not a professional photographer. Previous commenter is correct, you carry that lens, no matter what you do or where you go, you'll be attracting attention (for better or worse). Yes, also if you're traveling with a laptop, carry an extra external USB HD and keep away from camera or computer bags.
Good luck.

mjkshots said:

Dheorl said:

Make sure every things insured and never worry about loosing gear to save your skin. Maybe try and swap memory cards out regularly/not keep them in the camera when not shooting so at least if you loose your gear you won't loose your shots.

Click to expand...

great tips thanks for that! taking multiple smaller capacity cards and mailing them home if its possible seems good but i dont think I will be going to a post office regularly haha ... but maybe just storing them somewhere in a low cost item like a hat or shirt? , I actually did insured my gear earlier in the year so I should be covered. THANSK Dheorl for the tips!

Click to expand...

traveling with expensive gear to a dangerous place. tips? ideas? thoughts?

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