Take a DSLR to New York?

[shmac]

Hello, I'm new to the forum. Not sure if there's a specific place for questions...but this was my best guess, so forgive me if I'm in the wrong place.

I've recently been invited to go with a friend to New York with a large group. I've been to the Big Apple twice before: once with a disposable camera, and the next with my Sony CyberShot point-and-shoot. This time I'm wondering if it would be worth it to bring my Nikon D3000. Would it be safe to do so in such a big city? How would I carry it?

Just looking for everyone's personal opinion, I guess. To take or not to take? That is the question. (Haha, studying Hamlet in my English class right now. :P)

[Peapod Photo]

I've just spent 3 weeks in Seoul, and I took my dSLR with me everywhere, big heavy lens and everything. If you really want good pics, the size and stuff really shouldn't matter. *Shrug*

[baycruisers]

I would say take it. You might consider carrying your camera and any accessories in a bag that doesn't scream "expensive camera inside." If you traveling with a group you'll be fine in NYC or just about any city if you keep your camera bag at your side.

[shmac]

Well, I suppose I shouldn't worry too much until I actually know if I'm allowed to go. xD (I'm going -- that is, if they approve it -- with another school; they have open spots that they need filled.)
And I'd never dream of carrying it in a bag that looks too...camera-baggy xD. I got my Nikon in a kit with a black and yellow bag that says Nikon on the front. The bag's okay...for sitting in my closet, hehe. Anyone have any suggestions for bags to use? I've also heard of people just slinging the camera over their shoulder and putting a purse/bag over it to conceal it.
And yes, the fact that I'm traveling in a group is definitely reassuring.
I'm not /too/ worried about the size -- though it is a small factor. I'm going to bring my point-and-shoot regardless of if I'm bringing my DSLR or not. If I just want snapshots, my DSLR will sit in the hotel room. Though the schedule of the trip will also help me decide...if we're going to the Top of the Rock at night...the Nikon's coming.

[doubleg]

Check out the Crumpler bags. They cary several sized canvas camera bags that don't look like camera bags. They are also very light weight and depending what size you get you won't need more than one bag. I travelled all over the UK last summer and packed a lot of stuff in it, aside from camera gear. Crumpler | Backpacks, Camera Bags, Messenger Bags & Laptop Bags Good luck and have a great time!

[dalmorloson]

I know in some tourist spots your camera is safer with you than in a hotel room. I've heard countless stories of valuables taken from locked hotel rooms.

[dawnstarau]

I've taken my DSLR twice to New York City twice with no issue. Took it to the top of the Empire State, Top of the Rock, Liberty Isle, Natural History Museum, Wall St and Central Park.

I had no issues taking my relatively large Crumpler bag into any of these places, I did leave my tripod behind at the hotel for some of them (the museum for example is not crazy about you having them there).

As for keeping things safe in a hotel room - I travel with a hard case lockable suitcase which acts as a room safe whilst I'm not in the room.

I would really recommend taking it - you'll get some stunning shots.

[Cow_king]

for sure take it i agree with whats been said you want great pics? bring it :P

[kirbinster]

I walk around the city with my D700 and Nikon 24-70 f/2.8 on one shoulder and my D300 and Nikon 70-200 f/2.8 on the other and never think twice. NYC is not the New York of the 1970's it is a fairly safe place especially if you are in the touristy areas.

[AndyNJ]

There are only a few areas in NYC where you wouldn't be safe with your camera. I doubt you'll be in those places.

I live less than an hour from the city and go all the time with my camera...by myself. It's fine.