Honestly used to think people were overreacting about pictures too. Then a security guard followed me out of a library for taking a photo of the cool old stonework. His whole vibe was like I was planning a crime, not admiring architecture. It really showed me how it feels from the other side now.
Guess everyone forgot that half the planet has a camera in their pocket already. Phones, doorbells, dash cams. If someone wants to case a place, they don't need to stand there holding a big obvious one. The jumpiness just feels like theater. Makes people feel like they're doing something, I guess.
Exactly. Next time just tell them you're documenting the building for a history project. Guards usually back off if you sound like you have a legit reason. I keep a note on my phone with a few local historical society names to drop. Works every time.