Equipment: as stated in the previous thread, whatever you're comfortable using. I prefer my M3 most of the time, but I've also used a Canon F1 and Pentax 645.(posted 8121 days ago)Hiding behind bushes is a good way to make people very suspicious and possibly hostile. If you act like you're doing something wrong, people will probably think that you're doing something wrong. Sometimes I'll shoot from the hip (though I'm not as adept at it as Jeff) in order to get a different perspective or to insure a candid expression, but I don't look guilty when I'm doing it. : )
Why would I tip my subjects? Seriously, what's the basis for this question?
And why would people try to hit you? I've had people ask me about this a few times, and I've always found it a somewhat puzzling. Of course, there are some people out there who are always looking for trouble, but I figure they'll be less likely to go after the guy with the big metal brick in his hand.
Grant gives the most essential advice: just do it! You'll never find out what works for you if you don't try things out.