Not meaning to hijack the thread, but...
How's the light in Rio during their winter (June–July)? I'm thinking of going next year to document the favelas that will be undergoing changes in preparation for the 2016 Olympics.
I'd like to shoot a little bit of ISO 100 film there, but I'm not sure how late into the evening it'll last.
I don't remember how late the light lasts - and i don't often visit during this time of the year.... But, re: visiting the favelas - i'd recommend you have a local arrange a personal tour by a resident. When i went, my Brazilian friend who is a driver took us to the foot of the favela where we hired two motorcycle guides to take us up. It's a bit hairy on the back of a little motorcycle, winding around the narrow streets with buses coming down at you.... But, it was pretty cool.
I was hoping/expecting to see the storied 'kids with AK-47s,' but found none at that time.... I shot with an M7 and Mamiya 6 at the time.
BTW: In the favelas, i'm told there is a particular 'honor code,' in that there is no real crime within those borders. If you're inside, you're supposed to be protected, as part of the community - or something like that.
Back to David -
I still recommend, if you have the luggage space, that you take another/additional camera. Yes, the stories may be daunting, but once you're there, you may feel more confident and might want something else. The thing is, you can use ANY camera down there. So long as you do it smartly.
And, if you visit Sugar Loaf and Corcovado and such, there are scads of tourists around, and no real threat. Just be careful on the mosaic walkway in Copa, and on the non-beachfront streets. Don't walk around with a camera on a strap around your neck or on your shoulder. Keep it in a cheap, worn bag/nylon backpack, and no one will think you have anything more than a sandwich or gym clothes in there. Buy the bag once you get there - just get whatever kind you see most often, and cushion it with a small hotel towel.
