My first post in this forum, so first of all: Hi everyone! :) DarkPen, just my experience from the other side of the ocean and 20 years ago: If such a situation gets out of control, nobody likes to see photographers and nobody will give you the time to explain that you're a good guy. You can get hurt there (from both sides), so be carefull or better stay out if there isn't a good reason to be there. Some hints: Keep your equipment simple and light. Be aware that a good spurt can prevent you from beeing injured. ;) Personally I would take an old mechanical SLR with a short prime lens (35mm - 50 mm) and a second P&S hidden in a pocket. (very usefull if the SLR or the Film gets confiscate :) ) Don't take anything there, that would be a real loss if it gets broken. You wont have much time to take care of your gear. If you need a flashlight, take the most powerfull you can get and don't mount it to the accessory shoe (!). Take enough films and batteries, and make sure to put some additional films and maybe even a second camera somewhere at a saved place. take care and in doubt stay out! Here's on of my shots from the 80th in Berlin. These kind of pics helped me somehow to pay the rent while I was at the college, so I had a reason to be there. Wouldn't do that "just for fun" ;) cheers Thomas