Hello! I am traveling to Brazil in February for Carnival. I want to take a professional camera. Is this a bad idea?
I don’t want it to be stolen. I will spend time in Rio, Salvador and São Paulo.
I traveled to Brazil in 2013 and I have a digital camera stolen at night. I had it in my hand instead of a backpack and was walking through a park at night with a friend. We got mugged by gun point.
If I take a camera I’ll be more cautious. But I am not sure if it’s even a good idea and if I should just leave my camera at home.
Thank you.
Absolutely not, especially in crowded areas. Maybe in a wilderness area or Iguassu Falls.
Thank you!
Leave it at home. You will be paranoid about it while taking part in the festivities.
Aside from Carnival, will I be fine using it on my other part of the trip?
It's always a risk. There's no way to know if you will be in the wrong place at the wrong time.
That is true
In São Paulo it’s definitely possible. Just make sure you have travel insurance, but it won’t be a problem. The crowded areas that might be more dangerous have lots of police. Overal São Paulo felt safe, I think American cities like Los Angeles are more dangerous as it’s full of mentally ill people.
Good idea, I can try to film near police if I’m in a crowded area.
Yes that was what I did when I wanted to use my camera or phone.
Only if you go with someone else. I used to photograph with a friend, so one of us took photos in Rio while the other would watch out for thieves
I am going with two other people. This is a good tip. Thanks.
When I went to carnival we had these phone cases that connected by chain to your belt...so yeah I'd skip the SLR unless you have a guide and a private spot scouted out
Thank you for that
Try wearing it around your neck/using a camera neck strap so it’s not as easy for it to get snatched from your hands which I have heard thieves do. I’m visiting in a few weeks!
Will do! Have fun! I loved my time in Brazil when I went in 2013. I’m excited to go back and excited for you!