I think you're right about being closely observed Joe - certainly if you are using a camera around any 'sensitive' venue or event. There was some very interesting and alarming footage on Panorama the other night about police Forward Intelligence teams following and filming people attending various protests, including the journalists covering the events (and to take it to its absurd conclusion, the people recording the police recording the journalists recording the people ...)
Fortunately the only problems I have had have been easily resolved by a friendly conversation about what I'm doing, but using a conspicuous camera like a 1DsII, on a tripod or not, often draws attention even out in the wilds where I usually work.
'Tripod = commercial photography' - yes, I think you may be right, and also 'bulky camera/lens = professional photographer' seems to hold true as well. This does cut both ways though - on occasion I have been invited onto private estates because I look like the 'real thing', on others alarmed land owners (with guilty consciences?) have asked why I was taking pictures of their livestock or fences (actually landscaping or birding from public paths or roads)- their main concern being if I was from the council!
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