ImageCreator Loc: Northern California

Went out last Friday to photo the milky way. Was supposed to be ideal conditions. Had scouted three spots to shoot from. Arrived at the first spot at 12 am. Not ideal at night as the lights from a local lumber mill spilled over into my camera position. Still, I was able to record a decent image. Then, went up to our local vista point. Very dark, with the best conditions. Set up the camera and was shooting images by 12:30 am. Had taken three images when a car pulled up beside me. Dome light went on and I could see a young man with bald hair and numerous tattoos all over his face. The hackles on my neck went up. Creepy guy began rummaging around in his car. That feeling you get when you know something just isn't right began to gnaw at me.

I reached into my camera bag and took hold of my old friend, Mr Smith&Wesson, and slid him into my jacket. I never took my eyes off CreepyGuy. I quickly packed up and left. I came back a half hour later and he was gone so I continued my photo shoot.

The thing is, in our culture you can never be too careful. A word to the wise: when you are out alone, be vigilant. It wouldn't hurt to have someone along for protection.

Attached is an image from the night's milky way images.

(Download)

Longshadow Loc: Audubon, PA, United States

Great image.

Sorry you got the adrenaline rush....

jaymatt Loc: Alexandria, Indiana

--the photo and the vigilance.

Perry Loc: Washington Michigan

That's an awesome shot of the Milky Way. I wish I lived in an area where I could do that. I love astrophotography.

cahale Loc: San Angelo, TX

Should you admit on an international forum that you live in California and have a gun? And, what's bald hair? Nice shot, by the way.

UTMike Loc: South Jordan, UT

A beautiful result to your adventure!

Stardust Loc: Central Illinois

He probably was rummaging around for his Mr Ruger, wondering what that CreepyPerson was doing after midnight in the dark with a camera.

Bill_de Loc: US

Nice image and interesting comment.

It should probably be in either the Photo Gallery or Astronomical section.


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Hip Coyote

Your situational awareness was excellent. Crime is on the up swing nearly everywhere for so many reasons. I will avoid that discussion. And photographers have been targeted for robbery. A sad reality of life is that you responsible for your own protection and you did well.

Nice photo btw.

EJMcD

Very nice image and as a resident of Philadelphia, I certainly echo your advice about being vigilant.

gmontjr2350 Loc: Southern NJ

Wonderful shot, errr,... picture!!!

George

tcthome Loc: NJ

camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.

Yes Sir, nothing like having your good friend inside the camera back, great precaution. Leaving the place as soon as possible was a great choice under the circumstances.
I question if I would have been back.

Mr. B Loc: eastern Connecticut

Great photo. And good sense on your part to have Misters Smith & Wesson along for the ride. I often take them for rides myself. Along with Mr. Walther.

Manglesphoto Loc: 70 miles south of St.Louis

When Sharon and I go out shooting we take turns watching each others back!!