Keeping Camera Gear Safe
If you’re like us and lug around a fair amount of camera equipment, it can cause concern. The last thing you want to do is make yourself a target for theft, but unfortunately every time you pull out an expensive DSLR and a costly lens it can draw attention.
The first thing I do when I purchase a new camera is get rid of the strap with the giant Canon or Nikon advertisement on it. I find those straps extremely uncomfortable anyways. I attach a stretchy plain black strap, it saves a lot of strain on the back of your neck.
After trying out several different camera backpacks in various brands we went with a LowPro. We also removed all markings of LowPro from the bag. It now looks like a plain black backpack, no one is the wiser that it may contain expensive camera equipment. Another reason we chose this bag was the handy slot that fits our 14 inch laptop. Consider scuffing up the bag a bit to give it a worn look. A shiny new bag of any sort can attract attention. You can view our backpack and equipment in Our Camera Gear post.
For those times when it just doesn’t feel safe to pull out our DSLR we use a compact digital camera. You can get some descent photos from these cameras. They are slim and small enough to keep in a pocket. If you decide you don’t want to lug around heavy camera equipment but still want a higher quality, there are alternatives. See our post on mirrorless cameras.
- Be alert while taking photos. We have each others back while traveling as a couple. If you are alone it is easy to get caught up in your subject and forget about your surroundings. Be aware of your bags, purse or anything else you are carrying while using your camera, especially in a crowded area.
- If you have to, wear your bag on your front. Or consider a sling back bag that can easily be brought to your front when necessary.
- Another good trick while shooting is to use your viewfinder as way to see what’s behind you.
For more information see our post on Digital Photo Storage