Photography in Sao Paulo

[Scheelings]

I was wondering if any users here are from that city as I might be moving there - and if they find their photography limited because of the possibility of theft etc

 

[arnulf]

You have to be careful in São Paulo, no doubt about it. I don't live there, but I've been spending the last couple of months in Brazil and mainly in São Paulo. Walking the streets with an M9 there can be quite nerve wrecking at times, but there are many areas that are more than safe enough, at least at daytime. It is however a good idea to do some research on the different areas before waving your camera in public. I was taking pictures in what appeared to be a safe area just by Avenida Paulista and was about to walk down a very interesting and photogenic street, when I was stopped by a guy who said "do NOT go down this street with a camera!!". Turned out that was a very bad street, and quite impossible to tell without knowing.

If you're gonna move there, I'm sure you'll find a way to roam the streets there. It's a huge and very cool city. I'll be following this thread to see if there is any more good advice showing up.

Cheers
Arnulf

 

[Pherdinand]

i would not call it 'theft'. 😱 😱
Depends of course if you mean photography on the street or in your studio or what.🙂

locals are generally (overall in Brazil) helpful in letting you know what is OK to do and what not, and where.

 

[gavface]

thats really good to know, I've visited san paulo a few times only on very quick one day visits but never been out for a walk with my camera ...... I guess best walk with someone i know

 

[tmfabian]

Just use your best common sense. Sao Paulo is no more or less dangerous than any big city. Just keep your bag zipped and in front of you on public transportation and just use plain simple common sense. If you're just there to enjoy taking pictures and not on assignment...there's no glory in poking your nose into unsafe conditions.
I've been to sao paulo many many times, and to be honest...the most dangerous thing there is the traffic.

 

[arnulf]

I've been to sao paulo many many times, and to be honest...the most dangerous thing there is the traffic.

Amen to that! ;-)

 

[arnulf]

...although I have to say that the São Paulo traffic really is nothing compared to Rio de Janeiro. That goes for the crime too, by the way...

 

[tmfabian]

...although I have to say that the São Paulo traffic really is nothing compared to Rio de Janeiro. That goes for the crime too, by the way...

Yeah...rio can be a bit rough...in both regards, but it sure is beautiful.