Posted by & filed under How-To, Volume #1, Issue #2 - January 2007.

by James E. Travers

It’s easy to get lost in your surroundings while you’re enjoying the photographic opportunities and beauty of a place you’re seeing for the first time.  Unfortunately, there are those who are always on the lookout for unsuspecting travelers with cameras.  These tips should help protect your priceless images.

1. If you use a digital camera, don’t leave the recording media in the camera when it’s not in use.  Likewise, if you use film, remove it promptly when the roll is finished.  Remember, you can replace a camera, but your images are gone forever if they are lost.

2. Avoid using an obvious camera bag.  However, if you use a camera bag, try to use one with a carrying strap.  That way, when you sit in places such as airports or hotel lobbies, you can loop the strap around your leg or ankle.  This makes it virtually impossible for someone to carry it off.

3. When you’re not using a tripod, use a securely tied camera neck strap.  A neck strap has the same advantages as a carrying strap.

4. When you’re traveling alone, avoid isolated places for your photo shoots.  This applies especially when traveling alone in a foreign country.

5. Always be aware of your surroundings.  When concentrating on getting the shot, it’s easy to lose sight of where you are and who might be watching.

6. When traveling by air, carry your camera equipment on board.  There are too many horror stories about checked camera bags being lost and never found.

7. Determine if your camera equipment is covered by your insurance policy.  Many carriers won’t cover camera equipment outside of the studio or home without additional cost.

 

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