I can’t believe that it’s been over nine years since my first Apple store grand opening. Along the way I’ve been posting stories, photos and videos of the events—it’s amazing how that’s evolved. Seems like the stone ages back in 2001, when photos were 640×480, on-line videos were the size of postage stamps, and it took me a day to post a meaningful story (WordPress). Now technology and I have a standard process of using Twitter for at-the-scene reports, with text, photos (Twitpic) and video (TwitVid). I also post full stories and photos from in front of the store, and then later more stories and photos (MobileMe galleries). As for the rest, here’s the list:
- Timbuk2 rolling suitcase – Small to get through a subway turnstile, but roomy enough for gear. I have the 25″ but they also make a 22″ carry-on version. I check non-critical gear and clothes, and carry critical gear in the messenger bag with me onto the airplane.
- Timbuk2 messenger bag – I have to carry every thing all the time, and this accommodates still and video cameras, tripod, chargers, umbrella, batteries, etc.
- Cocoon Grid-It Organizer – neat elastic thingy to keep my chargers and cords in one place
- Canon T1i, 16-35mm and 18-135 lens – need both wide-angle for stores and tele for storefront details
- Panasonic LX-2, 16:9 aspect ratio – I love the 16:9, which matches the aspect ratio of the stores, and it handles subtle colors well
- Sony WX-1, 170-degree panoramic photos – for capturing really wide views
- Macbook Pro 13″ – Can’t beat the size and portability, without giving up great screen and speed
- Gorillapod – I carry two sizes, and they work anywhere.
- Canon HF-S10 HD camcorder with .7x wide-angle adapter – Compact, records to SD cards and is sturdy
- Various AC plug adapter – I have two sets of Apple’s travel adapters
- iPhone 4 with Mophie battery – The ultimate (waiting for the 4 version of the battery)
- Ecophone app – There are lots of Twitter apps for the iPhone. This is just one of many good ones.
- Bose QC-2 headphones – Required for 10 to 12-hour flights to international stores.
- Umbrella/raincoat/rainpants – I have to be prepared to stand in the rain for 24 hours…at least
- Fleece / snow gloves / wool cap – Again, weather protection is critical
- Rockport shoes – Nothing worse than bad shoes. These have served me well, while still looking good.
Wow, this site, and all the activities described on it, are the biggest waste of time I’ve seen in years. What a retarded bunch of fanbois you all are. Unless it’s just one of you, in your mom’s basement.
Just… ewww.
I’m sorry that I haven’t explained all the activities on this site well enough for you to make a fair evaluation. Back to work…