Protests

[OsmosisStudios]

There is a rather large protest planned for the very near future. I'd like to go down and take pictures. Does anybody have any thoughts/suggestions/tips, etc?

[Jim Bryant]

I've covered many. Don't get in the no man's land between the riot troops and protesters it they are no more than 10 yards apart, if you do so, stay on the sides. Don't want to get caught out in the middle incase the police happen to move forward.

I covered the WTO here for the Battle of Seattle......my,my,my my what a mess that was!

Also carry a large hankie, or towel and protective glasses to keep from getting pepper sprayed. You'll also need a bottle of water and keep all that stuff in a backpack. If you can get a hard hat (construction type) that'll help too.

[RexK_Cozumel]

Besides what Jim already stated.....

If you dont already have it... insurance for your camera gear.

Some people dont like to be photographed and might get physical with your gear....

[fletch]

A long lens.

Double the benefit as not only can you stay a safe distance from any problems but it also makes it more obvious you are a photographer, not a protester with a camera. (Even if you agree with the protest)

[scubabbl]

Originally Posted by Jim Bryant

I've covered many. Don't get in the no man's land between the riot troops and protesters it they are no more than 10 yards apart, if you do so, stay on the sides. Don't want to get caught out in the middle incase the police happen to move forward.

I covered the WTO here for the Battle of Seattle......my,my,my my what a mess that was!

Also carry a large hankie, or towel and protective glasses to keep from getting pepper sprayed. You'll also need a bottle of water and keep all that stuff in a backpack. If you can get a hard hat (construction type) that'll help too.

I second a helmet. Anytime you are in a crowd swinging signs and pushing, you run the risk of a donk to the noggin. I recommend Pro-Tec (No affiliation, just know they are great). Look at their military line Pro-Tec Military. Excellent helmets giving good protection, including ears without hampering vision or hearing.

[OsmosisStudios]

Thanks to all.

It's an on-going thing for the next few days, but I was able to tear myself away from my (empty) schedule and head down. It's not the kind of protest you all seem to be envisioning: This is Canada, after all. Quite peaceful, with some chanting and flags. A few heated arguments (which I was able to stay clear of) but nothing out of the ordinary. I think there was enough of a police presence to be a deterrent. WIll post pics soon, if you want.

[Jim Bryant]

yea...they are quiet polite up there. But down South, during the WTO.......it was a mess.

[OsmosisStudios]

Well, I figure I'd post a few of my favorites from today. Im not expecting much in the way of Ooohs and Ahhhs but hey.

(keep in mind im no photojournalist, have no training in such things and generally feel pretty blah about most of the images that come out of these endeavors)

Click images for larger versions

All images: Nikon D80, Nikkor 18-70 f/3.5-4.5 IF DX ED. f/8, 1/80s, iso100

[Jim Bryant]

the police line and protestors are pretty tiny...you need to get closer. As I say, "No balls no air medal!:

[OsmosisStudios]

I was in the thick of it for a good portion of time, but I didnt get any really good shots. Sadly.

I'd love to learn more about proper photojournalism. I'll look into what my school is offering in the coming year