Balance Point

It's all about balance.
Surveillance is as much an art as it is a craft. You have to develop a feel for it. You have to know when to draw close and when to back away. You have to sense how close is close enough and how far back is far enough. You have to be able to see your subject without looking at him. You have to be able to see your subject without him seeing you.

It's all about balance.
In every surveillance situation the balance point shifts constantly. Sometimes the proper balance is to be 150 yards away with binoculars; sometimes you need to ride in the same elevator. Sometimes you can follow from behind; sometimes from the side; occasionally from the front. The very notion of being able to follow from in front demonstrates the essentially zen-like quality of surveillance.

It's all about balance.
Before enlightenment, chop wood and carry water. After enlightenment, chop wood and carry water. During surveillance, chop wood, carry water, and find the balance point.