This SAVED me from getting robbed for my cameras

Summary

In this gripping story, a filmmaker recounts a tense experience where he almost became the victim of an attempted robbery while filming alone in an abandoned parking lot. After initially deciding not to bring his gun, he had a gut feeling to take it along, which ultimately helped him stay safe. As suspicious individuals returned to the parking lot, the filmmaker's heightened awareness and quick thinking allowed him to avoid danger. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of being vigilant and prepared in uncertain situations, even in seemingly safe environments.

Takeaways

• 😀 Always trust your instincts and be visually aware of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas.
• 😀 Sometimes, carrying protection (like a gun) can be a good decision, especially when you're shooting solo in isolated areas.
• 😀 It’s important to assess any suspicious behavior early and stay prepared for potential threats.
• 😀 Gentrified areas may appear safe, but remnants of previous crime or danger can still exist.
• 😀 Noticing small details (like the return of the same car) can help you spot potential danger before it escalates.
• 😀 Filmmakers, photographers, and solo creators need to be especially cautious when working alone in remote or empty locations.
• 😀 Trust your gut feelings when something feels 'off,' and don’t dismiss them.
• 😀 Even seemingly innocent interactions (like asking about your camera) can be distractions or signs of potential harm.
• 😀 Being in the right place at the wrong time can turn a normal shoot into a dangerous situation quickly.
• 😀 Awareness of your environment is more important than being overconfident in your ability to handle danger.
• 😀 Stories like this aren't just to share a close call but to highlight how important it is to stay vigilant and protect yourself at all times.

Q & A

Why did the speaker consider bringing a gun with them?

The speaker debated bringing a gun for self-protection, considering that they were going out alone and in an area with both gentrified and less safe parts. They eventually decided it was better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.

What was the speaker's reasoning behind choosing the filming location?

The speaker chose a large, abandoned parking lot away from the street to minimize distractions and avoid being noticed by passersby, ensuring better control over the filming environment.

How did the speaker stay aware of their surroundings?

The speaker kept track of every car that entered the parking lot, noting unusual behavior, particularly when a car returned after having left earlier. Their heightened awareness led them to prepare for potential trouble.

What was the significance of the tinted windows on the suspicious car?

The heavily tinted windows of the suspicious car made it difficult for the speaker to see inside, which added to the unease and suspicion. It also indicated that the people in the car were trying to hide their intentions.

How did the speaker respond when they noticed the person getting out of the backseat?

The speaker quickly became alert and pulled out their gun, preparing to defend themselves in case the person approaching had ill intentions or posed a threat.

What made the speaker feel like they were in a dangerous situation?

The speaker felt a sense of danger when the car returned, the odd behavior of the driver, and noticing a figure exiting the backseat of the car. Their instincts, shaped by past experiences, told them they were in a risky situation.

Why did the speaker choose not to leave the area immediately?

The speaker felt they had no choice but to stay put and face whatever was coming. They couldn't quickly escape because of their car's condition, and leaving would have been difficult and dangerous with the equipment they had.

What triggered the situation to de-escalate?

The situation de-escalated when the driver of the suspicious car yelled at their companion to get back in the car, causing the person who had gotten out to re-enter and for them to leave the parking lot.

What lesson does the speaker share at the end of the video?

The speaker emphasizes the importance of being visually aware of one's surroundings, noting that staying alert and noticing small details can help prevent dangerous situations, particularly when out alone or in unfamiliar places.

What is the speaker’s view on the people who almost tried to rob them?

While the speaker does not condone their actions, they express sympathy for people who may feel driven to commit such acts due to their environment or circumstances, acknowledging that they may be misguided or desperate.