Preparation for the 2005 season continues with the newest addition to my photo arsenol! Arriving in the mail yesterday afternoon was my 4.0 megapixel Canon Powershot A85 Point-and-Shoot camera. This will allow me to quickly fire images to my website from a chase as opposed to going through the time consuming process of film developing. I ran the camera through a series of tests (taking tons of useless pictures) to make sure it was in good working order and am pleased with what I've seen so far. I've also picked up several 256meg CF cards on eBay, paying close to $70 for 3 of them through various sources. The smaller cards will prevent huge loss in case one of the cards dies. They are also cheaper than 1gig cards and store about as many pictures as I'll likely need in a chase trip or two.
I also ran my 35mm SLR (my Canon AE-1) to The Camera Trader to have it cleaned and refoamed. After bouncing around the idea of picking up a digital SLR, I figured it wouldn't be worth the money to but one since I normally only use the AE-1 to shoot lightning. The $200 Canon gives me the flexibility to shoot for my webpage AND take prints of up to 8x10. The 35mm SLR will be used primarily for lightning shots and perhaps the occasional super-photo!
All my equipment is in stow. I'm awaiting the passing of the TESSA meeting this weekend before purchasing the Jotto Desk for the car. Occasionally, Jotto pops in on these conferences and gives good deals for attendees. I'm hoping to see that this weekend. If not, I'll order online and have it installed prior to my Spring Break (late March).
The accessories are still coming in as well. I'm awaiting the last extended Sony battery for my Digital-8 camcorder to arrive, thus giving me 6 hour batteries for both camcorders. I'm also awaiting a few smaller items, including smaller cases for my CF cards that will fit in the aluminum case I got. This case is being called upon to store both my D8 camcorders, my Canon AE-1 and its 300mm lens, the Powershot Digi-cam, my extra lenses for the D8s, the CF cards, and the filters for all the cameras. All-in-all, eBay has seen me spend nearly $300 in goodies, including $150 for an external Sony DVD burner.
The car has also been repaired. Due to the theft of my vehicle last month, I was able to collect an insurance check which covered the replacement of both of my front shocks. I also had the vehicle realigned, the battery replaced, and the fuel system cleaned. As the season approaches, I'll get the general maintanence completed, including changing of most of the fluids, a brake job, and hopefully new tires.
Other things upcoming include the purchase and installation of the Jotto Desk; reinstalling the radio equipment in my car; getting a hands-free cell phone kit; purchasing a blue-tooth mouse (trackball) for use in the car with my laptop.
