Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1998/10/01
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Gerry, I have been to Beijing and environs twice, with Leicas and several lenses, hardly inconspicuous. Had no problems photographing public buildings, tourist attractions (Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, great Wall, street vendors etc.). Found that carrying little trinkets to offer street vendors or other candid subjects worked wonders. Was often asked to take pictures of other Chinese in front of notable places, and they offered to do the same for me with my camera. general rule is not to do anything stupid, like aggressively photographing military or police subjects. Other cardinal rule, when in doubt, especially with people, ask or look like you are asking for permission, and do it with a smile. Had no trouble whatsoever eiher bringing in the camera gear or in bringing it out of the country. My outfit consited of 2 Leicaflex SL bodies, and 5 lenses, plus about 15 rolls of film. This is easily defensible as "amateur/serious hobbyist" and does not necessarily put you in the commercial category. In some places "commercial" use of equipment is subject to some customs reporting and duty requirements. Mike Swiek