Fear and loathing in Cuba

Stefan,

Thanks! You're quite accurate. I did enjoy the trip just the same, besides, now I have another story to add to the many experiences. Not sure where my next stock trip, but I'll certainly keep you all in the loop.

Francois

Thats what i was wondering also stefgo. I leave my xha1 at home during such trips just because it will draw attention.
I think looking like a tourist with a tripod and a ex1 is kinda hard

Eddie,

I suppose it probably is, but I did my best to "look" like a tourist, it worked. That said, there's nothing inherently illiegal about videotaping anywhere on public property or public domain, however in a communist country, nothing appears as it should. In Cuba, I used common sense and a smile. I had more problems shooting in New York City summer, with some "security guards" advising me I could take picture even though I was clearly on publi property. I asked him to send his boss and/or police to advise. They never showed up. Overzealous indivduals and paranoia can make for awkward scenes, but common sense shoudl always prevail.

cheers,
Francois

Maybe it´s also because Francois feels like a tourist as soon as he leaves one piece of his equipment at home :-). I am wondering what part of the HV30 I could drop? Maybe a battery...

Completely agree. Common sense should always prevail. Avoid too much attention, don´t go after anything you can´t shoot without possibly getting yourself into trouble, and leave your better equipment at home if that makes shooting more feasible, esp. at places where you have to deal with more than just authorities. 50 clips with a small cam are always better than 10 with a big one...

Cheers,
Stefan

Stefan,

Thanks, very flattered. Perhaps I take a few chances, I have a an amazing guardian angel. I look forward to meeting every one here some day. What an interesting bunch.

Francois

Offcourse its not illegal but people can be very annoying or irritated.

You´re of course very welcome Francois if you should decide one day to come to Buenos Aires! I´ll do the translation thing and take some shooting lessons - that would sound like a good deal to me. Until then, I might however have to increase my own frequency in order to make some money before this place will undoubtedly be covered :)...

Cheers,
Stefan

I think we all need to meet up at NAB next year, or plan some sort trip sometime. There are many cool people on here that have inspired me to do better and work hard. Especially you Francios.

I was thinking about NAB seriously this year, but decided Cuba would be a nicer break for my wife. Sigh. She's pretty good about it though. I'm going to make it up to her, we'll spenda long weekend in Banff or Waterton or something.

Maybe next year at NAB would be cool. I suppose I could drive down and turn into a into a stock trip, probably a couple of subject matters along the way. I'm planning a lone summer of stock trips, mostly in Western Canada. Let's start thinking about a gathering. Doesn't matter to me where it is, within reason.

And Thanks Stefan, should I find myself in your part of the world, I'll definetly look you up.


cheers,
Francois

Too bad most of you guys are in the states or canada. Will be a pretty expensive meeting for me