Which lens for Rome?

[Barb King]

When I go to photograph European cities, I take a 24mm prime and an 85mm prime. I have never felt I needed anything closer than an 85mm, but I would probably worry that 70mm was not close enough, especially when you are touring the giant outdoor sites like the Forum. I'd recommend if possible taking your wide angle zoom + a close prime. It would at least be light and small.

As for crime in Rome, I spent 8 days there walking everywhere, daytime and nighttime, and I never felt unsafe except for right around the bus station (Roma Termini). I'd definitely put my camera away in that area. And don't forget to explore Trastavere--so beautiful.

Hope you have a wonderful trip! Your portfolio is gorgeous; I'm sure you'll get some great shots.

-Barb

 

[Barb King]

Rome isn't as bad as Naples, no.

But yes, pick-pocketing is very prevalent in Rome; tons of tourists who are easy targets.

There are a lot of "Travelers" and local kids who plague Italy during tourist season -- they tend to stick to train terminals and the overcrowded buses, but they will do @Strodav mentioned, distract you to take your belongs. Don't put your camera bag on the ground if your at a cafe drink an Aperol Spritz, there's a good possibility someone will sneak up and snatch it.

They take advantage of the crowds and really don't even have to work that hard to hide their actions. They are usually very young and unsuspecting, but can stand around in a crowd and just go-to-town on all the tourists throwing coins into trevi fountain.

Just gotta be smart about it. Don't keep your wallet in your back pocket, never put anything you don't want to lose on the ground, be cautious of everyone -- especially those getting very close to use or offering/asking for help, don't fall for traps.

Agree with all of this! I usually wrap my camera bag around my leg when I stop for an Aperol Spritz.

 

[nmoody]

Agree with all of this! I usually wrap my camera bag around my leg when I stop for an Aperol Spritz.

I use the strap around my leg method a lot when eating when on a trip. Also try and place my bag between my partner and myself since I will be facing them most of the time talking. Floors may be grungy sometimes by bags can be cleaned.

 

[Braineack]

if you youtube "rome pickpockets" or similar, you can find a lot of video on how these pregnant 12yo girls run their business.

 

[SquarePeg]

It’s a shame but as long as the tourists continue to flock to Rome and Paris the government won’t bother to do anything about it. When crime starts to affect tourism, like Times Sq back in the 80’s, they will have to address it.

 

[SquarePeg]

I should add that I want to visit both but have held off for these reasons. Not fear, but the stress of having to worry about that would really kill my enjoyment of the trip.

 

[dunfly]

Rome is no more dangerous than any big city and as far as physical danger, probably less so. You do have to be careful of pick pockets though. The problem is primarily with the Roma. They tend to work in teams and try to distract you, but if you are aware of what is going on around you, they are easy to spot. The only precaution I took was getting a security strap for my shoulder bag (the kind with the stainless steel wire imbedded in them). I would use a shoulder bag instead of a backpack because they are easier to keep an eye on. I would not let this keep me from taking any equipment I wanted too. Also, the hotels are safe, particularly if you keep your valuables in the safe. This being said, I was almost mugged outside of our hotel but the mugger got the worst of it. It was really more of him trying to lift my wallet and getting caught. This is the exception though. If you are going to travel, just be aware of your surroundings and don't let your fears ruin your trip.

 

[D7K]

I spent a few days in Naples and a few in Rome, same as all big cities, just keep your wits about you and you’ll become. I had no trouble in either city and was constantly with my camera strapped to my hand. Be safe, be wary but it’s the same advice I’d give for any city, enjoy it..


Sent from my mobile device because I’m either outside or too lazy to get my MacBook..