Why Flickr?

I have seen a few stories over the last few days about how the CEO of Yahoo is not really showing much interest in Flickr. It seems that even the Yahoo homepage redesign may be missing a Flickr button.

I keep using flickr mostly because of the existing community of not only photographers but local groups in my Area. As an example, the East Bay Regional Park District uses Flickr as a way for park visitors to share images. My local city has a flickr group as well.

I find it to be an easy place to share images with the non-photography world in a way that is recognized by many as a "safe" photo site. Name recognition goes a long way. Flickr really has helped me to get exposure as I build my photography portfolio. I also like the basic stats they provide to help me track views.

I have thought about opening an account at smugmug.com but I do not see a "community" the way I do on Flickr to help get exposure for my images.

Do I think Flickr is going to go away? No I don't, but I also don't see it changing any time soon.

For now I will keep using Flickr and 500px.

My new HF Triple Unboxing

I have always been a big fan of the products over at Holdfast Gear. They are hand made in America using some of the best quality materials available.  I previously bought the Ruck Strap and I have loved using it every day.  Today my "Triple in Kodiak Leather" arrived. The size is a little smaller then a typical shoebox.

As always the packing shouts quality.

The straps are well made and the rope is a very nice touch. Fully loaded I have packed it with 9 filters (some 77mm), Nikon charger, 18-55 Nikon lens, air blower and I have room for some more odds and ends.

Overall I love this little bag. Honestly I would love it if Holdfast offered the same bag in an even larger size so I could also fit my Macro tripod slide. Maybe Matthew will offer one in the future (hint). Two of these would fit well on my shelf.

Vanguard Monopod Roundup

I was getting pretty tired of dragging around a bulky tripod or skipping the tripod all together, so I ordered a new monopod and head from Vanguard.

The ballhead comes with 2 quick release mounts and the movement is smooth and responsive. It was an  outstanding purchase.

The foot of the monopod includes a rotating bottom that exposes a spike for stability in soil.  The overall size is pretty manageable and easy to hold while hiking.