mooseontheloose
Allowing Ads
To make a long story short:
I used to live in Japan (1999-2005), mostly in Western Chugoku, got serious about photography there, bought my first SLR there, shot a lot of chromes, and was just getting into medium format/black and white when I left.
Now I've been offered a short-term contract there (in Niigata) for July and August and I'll have time beforehand (about two weeks) to revisit some favorite places and hopefully some new ones. I'll be bringing a variety of cameras with me but I hope to use my Bronica SQ system for the majority of my shots.
So my question for those that live there, or who have recently travelled there is: Will I have any problems using the Bronica (that is, a fairly conspicuous MF SLR) in most places? My assumption, based on my experience, is no. That being said, I'm aware that no MF cameras or tripods are allowed at Kinkakuji in Kyoto. Do they check bags? I don't remember. I do remember a "guard" of some sorts watching over everyone, but that's it. I'm assuming I could get away with my Holga -- what about a small TLR? (I'll likely bring my Yashica or Autocord). Also - what about the other temples, shrines, gardens, etc.? Are there any others that have similar policies? I'll be going to Tokyo (never been), Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, and smaller places in between. I've tried finding specific information/policies about MF camera use on the web but have been unable to do so.
I'd appreciate any advice or comments -- it will help me finalize what kind of equipment I will take with me when I go.
I used to live in Japan (1999-2005), mostly in Western Chugoku, got serious about photography there, bought my first SLR there, shot a lot of chromes, and was just getting into medium format/black and white when I left.
Now I've been offered a short-term contract there (in Niigata) for July and August and I'll have time beforehand (about two weeks) to revisit some favorite places and hopefully some new ones. I'll be bringing a variety of cameras with me but I hope to use my Bronica SQ system for the majority of my shots.
So my question for those that live there, or who have recently travelled there is: Will I have any problems using the Bronica (that is, a fairly conspicuous MF SLR) in most places? My assumption, based on my experience, is no. That being said, I'm aware that no MF cameras or tripods are allowed at Kinkakuji in Kyoto. Do they check bags? I don't remember. I do remember a "guard" of some sorts watching over everyone, but that's it. I'm assuming I could get away with my Holga -- what about a small TLR? (I'll likely bring my Yashica or Autocord). Also - what about the other temples, shrines, gardens, etc.? Are there any others that have similar policies? I'll be going to Tokyo (never been), Kyoto, Nara, Hiroshima, and smaller places in between. I've tried finding specific information/policies about MF camera use on the web but have been unable to do so.
I'd appreciate any advice or comments -- it will help me finalize what kind of equipment I will take with me when I go.