Michael Ou
Well-known member
There seems to be a considerable upsurge in the use of Nato/Picatinny rails for mounting camera accessories (due to low cost, simplicity and availability), and I thought I'd post a little counterpoint for those that may find themselves shooting on smaller productions, in potentially unfriendly locations. This of course, is not for the seasoned veteran who has a lifetime of experience under their belt and have earned some common sense that the newbie may not have the opportunity to have suffered to earn yet.
For years, I have wondered why in the world large Canon zooms are painted bright white, then I realized a benefit to this color. Whether or not it was the intended purpose, I'm not certain, but nevertheless, offers a huge benefit that may, in the least, save a few hours of detention/questioning, at most save the photographer's life. The benefit is basically, it's LESS likely to be mistaken as a weapon, especially from a distance.
Of course, for most of us thankfully, we will never worry about a situation where our cameras will be mistaken for weapons. But for the few who may end up at a random check point, in a country where the security forces may not be up to date with the latest camera trends, it may be important to know. Your RED, or any other camera may be unfamiliar to them and if you also do not speak their language, explaining the instantly recognizable Nato rails mounted to your solid black metal device, may take awhile.
Just some food for thought. (Please no photoshopped Epics in neon green or safety orange please). Safe shooting everyone!
For years, I have wondered why in the world large Canon zooms are painted bright white, then I realized a benefit to this color. Whether or not it was the intended purpose, I'm not certain, but nevertheless, offers a huge benefit that may, in the least, save a few hours of detention/questioning, at most save the photographer's life. The benefit is basically, it's LESS likely to be mistaken as a weapon, especially from a distance.
Of course, for most of us thankfully, we will never worry about a situation where our cameras will be mistaken for weapons. But for the few who may end up at a random check point, in a country where the security forces may not be up to date with the latest camera trends, it may be important to know. Your RED, or any other camera may be unfamiliar to them and if you also do not speak their language, explaining the instantly recognizable Nato rails mounted to your solid black metal device, may take awhile.
Just some food for thought. (Please no photoshopped Epics in neon green or safety orange please). Safe shooting everyone!
