I'm all for CCW and self defense but honestly your best defense is to NOT travel alone or stay in a very public place. Learning self defense takes time and is great advice., join a class. In the mean time take a friend (big one) with you.
Seriously?
A dog?
Maybe while jogging, yes. But during a photo shoot?
I've got enough to worry about just working my gear and paying attention to my subject. A dog will just complicate matters.
"Let's see..... RAW+Jpeg Normal. ISO 100. F/8. Shutter to 1/125. Camera level. Zoom to 105mm. Fill flash to.............. Fido, get back here!......... Fill flash to 1/4th. Oh, sun just went behind the clou........... Dammit, Fido.......why did you have to poop right there?"
On the strobist website (Strobist) ...
It's unfortunate that you are a young female, because as you pointed out, that is who most cowardly attackers are going to target.
It may sound simple and finding yourself in dangerous situations sometimes just happens, being aware of what is going on, watching to see if it is likely to escalate and use your gut feelings, walk away before things really get out of hand. All the other suggestions as "special" as they are will get you dead very quick, deciding to add a gun to your camera bag makes common sense go out the window. You can't have a dog following you around, too distracting. If you are really concerned that it will happen again, travel with a friend you trust to watch your back, and be smart.
A firearm is great if you have the skill and balls to use it .......otherwise use caution and stay aware of your surroundings.
Yup, a firearm is great. You don't use it in a difficult situation and you end up dead. You do use and you end up in prison. Great options!:lmao: