Like a lot of photogs, I consider myself pretty hyper-aware of my surroundings, but who here hasn’t glazed over and daydreamed as a reporter wrapped up a noon live shot? From now on, I’m keeping my head on a swivel as I throw them an early ‘wrap’. Hard to believe you have to scan the horizon during a live nooner these days, but apparently, you do.
Reports say the thieves – who fled the scene in a Lexus and Mercedes – made off with a six thousand dollar camera. Six thousand? Curious to now what make and model that was? Are smaller, cheaper cameras more susceptible to theft? Does it really matter what kind of glass you’re packin’ when a gang of miscreants starts swingin’ on you?
One of my maxims is "Always Be Rollin’". When things get hinky, look to the red light. But that’s hard to do when a band of hoodlums relieves you of your lens. Do your whip out your iPhone? Memorize license plates? Shield the innocent? Give chase? Call for take-out? Yell "Stop!"? Yell "Stop!" again? I hope I never have to find out.
Sources say all KPIX crews covering stories in Oakland will be accompanied by security guards, day or night. Don’t know if that’s true, but if it is, it certainly changes the live shot dynamic. I’ve done a few with requested police presence but never had my own heavy in tow. Anybody here had much experience with news crew security guards? Do ya hafta tip ’em?
I’m not a gun guy. Hell, I have to look for my Leatherman. But even an unprepared peace-nick like myself can’t help but think twice sometimes… Hey, I’m NOT advocating armament. It’s usually a great way to get fired. But what DO you use to draw the line between professionalism and personal safety? A spray-can of mace?
As many questions as I possess, I have even more empathy for the KPIX crew who got jacked just for doing their job. I hope your station takes your safety seriously. And I can’t help but wonder if mine would…