You're right.
I think it's safe to say that when these threads start to concern you and answer some of the things you've been thinking about, THEN it's time to make the "FF vs Crop" decision.

What can I say, you been there already and found out that one month is not long enough :-)

I was there from 1947 to 1965 experienced the Berlin Wall over night. We used to go for the excitement to see if anyone escaped and to cheer them on. In those days I had no camera ....years later after coming to Canada, I have returned multiple times (working for the Airlines).

Times have changed but most people are still friendly and like tourists. If you are in Berlin Mitte, well I was raised in Schoeneberg and lived also in Zehlendorf. Always used to go to the busy market in Steglitz.

Even if you are on the smaller streets as you said-if its busy then most people will not pay attention. As you can see the picture below, all I needed is a bit of a zoom and no one would know.

How close do you want to get-LOL-
I say you are pretty safe and don't need to carry any weapons.

My wife could not believe people are taken bottle of Beer on a Bus and drink it, even right in front of a Police Officer.
As long as you keep the peace and behave all is good.
:-)


Only ONE WEEK--ouch I hope its a bussiness trip ;-)

September 2010 I was in Nuremberg, Munich, several other places in Bavaria also several places in Austria........took lots of pictures... nobody seemed to care what I was doing. Took pictures of people in costume, horse drawn wagons, boats, street scenes, etc.
However, I did not specifically single out individuals I did not know and take their picture. I personally think that is rude and an invasion of privacy. I think there is a cetain amount of etiquette and courtesy to observe when taking pictures. If people are part of a street scene or church scene, etc. etc. then I don't think it matters. However, I could be wrong in my thinking. But I never had any problems. All the people I encountered were very polite or just indifferent to what I was doing. Maybe it is different in Berlin or what used
to be East Germany. Also, I speak and understand a little of the German language. Many Germans speak English and American and if you have any doubts about picture taking you can always ask one of the locals working in hotels, business owners, or other appropriate people if specific picture taking is permitted. One added thought....if a total stanger offers to take your picture (with your expensive camera) in a Berlin scene........be careful.......might not see your camera again.
Same caution I would give for New York or Chicago.

I was born in Berlin (1947) and went to visit in 2008

It is a city full of tourists from around the world. Busy at all the usual attractions.

You should have no problems taking pictures.
If you go to the what used to be EAST Berlin section you may have some problems?

Places such as where the famous Berlin Wall used to be, there are people day and night(always busy).

The Brandenburger Tor, Checkpoint Charlie, Siegesseule, The Reichstag and the famous Kurfuersten Damm, are just a few attractions and you should get good shots without being in front of their faces.

I also wore my jacket that said -Canada- on it so they could see I was a tourist and some actually want to talk with me. But that's a different story.....:-)

Just have a good time.

Late this year I will begin a multiyear journey through China, Tibet, Nepal, India, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia, and most of the countries in Africa. Altitudes to 20K feet and heat to 130 in the deserts. This will be my 4th such trip. Previously I used Nikon F3 and FTN with assorted lenses. This journey will require me to purchase new gear.
I am inclined to buy a Nikon D7000, to couple it with my favorite lens, a Nikon 135 mm F/2 DC. Most of my photography is portraiture and this combination gives me sharp pictures at any f stop and at any speed. However several friends believe I should use a Sony a77 with a Zeiss 135 mm f/1.8. They point out that the Sony has better seals and is more durable. I have no experience with the Zeiss lens but it probably is as good as the Nikon. I will also carry about a 18 - 50 mm zoom for non portrait use. Any thoughts or ideas? Thank you.