V8 Vantage (2008) Front bumper removal

[peterzoom]

I was hoping that someone could kindly advise me on the best method to rmove the clips that are the final holding points on the front bumber of an '08 vantage?
There are a few videos online that show masking tape and either scredrivers or trim tools be use to force the release of the centrally positioned clips.
Seems a bit brutal and loaded with risk to the paint finish in a very prominent area. Is this really the way to go?
Thanks in advance