Gaffer on Camera Body?

This is the weirdest I have heard lately on "mummifying" a camera body.

A friend's bro who's a pro photographer has spent days on a project, using yards and yards of Gaffer tapes - wrapping up lenses and also the body.


Well, I found out he's not alone.

I was able to dig out some supporting reasons online for such tedious project:

1. Prevent the peeling of paint on the camera body / lens
2. Protect the camera equipment from chipping caused by accidental knocks
3. Enhance grip
4. Make metallic parts easier to hold in cold weather
5. Conceal expensive equipment (e.g. L lenses with red rings / white bodies) from prying eyes and unwanted attention
6. Minimize usage marks on lens hoods

His reasoning revolves around adding a character and personality to the otherwise boring piece of equipment. And the biggest agenda out of all would have to be the ability to preserve the resale value of his equipment - keeping them in good cosmetic condition.

When asked when he will ever sell his equipments - never!

Photographers all have something in common - they possess a certain perspective, which explains why they can shoot objects from a different angle, don't you agree?