Agustin 69 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 Please tell me if I am being overly paranoid. I am packing and debating taking my DSLR with me, it's a moderately pricey body with a nice fast lens, so it essentially draws attention whenever and wherever I use it due to its size. I dont have any other camera to take aside from the one attached to my cell phone. I will be in Manila, Boracay, Cebu and Bohol. Am I asking for trouble as it pertains to possible theft or robbery? Here in the US I am so used to it carrying it openly, even in the depths of South Central Los Angeles but the Philippines, I am not to familiar with and I don't know what to expect at least when it comes to carrying around a pricey camera. So, take it with me or leave it behind? What say you all? Link to post Share on other sites
Paul 55,116 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 So, take it with me or leave it behind? What say you all? Just take care of it and look after your stuff, as you would anywhere else while traveling. Do NOT fall asleep with your bag beside you on a bus or in a van. 6 Link to post Share on other sites
Alfred E. Neuman 5,792 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 Be aware of your surroundings, dont appear dorky.. Youll be safe. Link to post Share on other sites
Davaoeno 38,588 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 (edited) We went to many places in the Phil carrying a Nikon DSLR. never had a problem once. Many Iphones and Samsung 6 etc are worth more than my used Nikon was . Edited October 7, 2015 by Davaoeno 5 Link to post Share on other sites
Hy H 1,987 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 (edited) Been carrying one to areas you mentioned...no issues what so ever. Heaps of other tourists do the same. Just be aware of your surroundings and do not leave it as an easy snatch. You could lose it in any country u go if leave things unattended. Many opportunists around everywhere. Edit: I should add. Your risk increases when the sun goes down..... and off course certain style of photographing will bring it`s own risks. Edited October 7, 2015 by Hy H 1 Link to post Share on other sites
rizla 1,760 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 I had my camera stolen from my hotel room in Calgary, so lets not assume that the Philippines is any worse than anywhere else! Just be careful and vigilant, as you would being a tourist in ANY country. 2 Link to post Share on other sites
+RogerDuMond 15,783 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 It is much safer if you are not alone. If you are going to be with a Filipina, she will help watch over you. 2 Link to post Share on other sites
Jawny 4,677 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 I used to have a larger camera but rarely took it on trips. I found that the less expensive pocket sized cameras were adequate and had the advantage of fitting into a pocket, of of sight, out of mind. These can be bought fairly cheaply here if your travel budget allows the extra cost. I did like the features my larger camera had, but while traveling, most of my images were of the snapshot variety. Hence the smaller digital was adequate. 2 Link to post Share on other sites
miles-high 3,918 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 (edited) I quite often carry a camera backpack containing about $10k worth of a Canon 5D Mk III, 3 L lenses, strobe and a GPS recorder for the pics... Although airlines are only public transportation I take in the Philippines, I have not notice anyone particularly interested in my gadets... Now my wife just bought a SONY 4K video/still GPS cam (similar in size to GoCam), that is the only one we are taking today to Manila and see if it's any good... Edited October 7, 2015 by miles-high Link to post Share on other sites
Chas 381 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 I have carried a DSLR extensively in the places you mentioned without problem with the exception of Boracay. Never been to Boracay and no wish to go. I carry it out of sight in a shabby non branded rucksack when not in use. Have it insured and if it goes get another. I also carry a small netbook and upload photos so if belongings go I still have the memories. Relax, enjoy, be sensible and take some great photos. If kids shout at you to take their photo, don't!!!! Link to post Share on other sites
Raptor 319 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 I am so used to it carrying it openly, even in the depths of South Central Los Angeles That's the real jungle, Philippines won't give your camera any problems, as long as it's attached to you... Link to post Share on other sites
Irenicus 8,553 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 I quite often carry a camera backpack containing about $10k worth of a Canon 5D Mk III, 3 L lenses, strobe and a GPS recorder for the pics.. You must be really rich. OP - photography is very popular amongst Filipinos, and you will often see them walking around taking photos themselves. Like someone mentioned, though - I would get it insured. It's not that much, and it provides some peace of mind. Link to post Share on other sites
RogerDat 3,484 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 Does insurance work in Philippines as in theft of gadgets? Link to post Share on other sites
contraman 29,048 Posted October 7, 2015 Share Posted October 7, 2015 (edited) I am packing and debating taking my DSLR with me Sorry, it must be an age thing But I first read your post as SLR Edited October 7, 2015 by contraman 4 Link to post Share on other sites
Administrator +Salty Dog 82,321 Posted October 7, 2015 Administrator Share Posted October 7, 2015 I guess you havn't seen many Asian tourist yet in the Philippines... 3 Link to post Share on other sites
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