I think everyone has certain items that make specific tasks just a bit easier. I'm no different. As a multi-tasking sports editor, I've found that there are several things that make my reporting work more efficient.
Efficiency is important, because when I'm using a hefty digital SLR camera, getting names, game details, and quotations all at the same time can be difficult. But a ballcap and cargo shorts/pants make everything run smoothly. My reporters' notepad can slip down into my left cargo pocket while I take photos, using my left hand to support the camera (and zoom/focus) and the right hand to click the shutter. I get my shot, grab my pen from its spot tucked in my cap, whip out my notepad, jot notes (left-handed), and tuck everything back in place to take more photos. The motion is all rather fluid and a minimal amount of time is wasted.
In cold weather, I've got a small pair of fleece gloves that allow me complete dexterity to write and change camera settings.
The problem is that apparently this work takes a toll on these items. Even now I'm searching for just the right gloves to replace my current pair, which I got on the cheap at Old Navy a few years ago. The ones I have now are threadbare on the fingertips, making them hardly any better than going barehanded. (Which is not an option when the weather is cold and I'm using my metal tripod. As my Dad says, "tripods radiate cold.") I can't find similar gloves anywhere now, including Old Navy. They're simple gloves, but I'm picky; I have to retain enough dexterity to write and manipulate camera buttons.
When it comes to cargo shorts and pants, ink pens are the danger. When I'm done reporting at an event, my pen typically goes in my pocket. To date, I have ruined a pair of shorts and a pair of pants (along with other laundry) by sending ink pens through the washer and dryer in my pockets. Now, before you jump all over me, I must stress that two different sets of hands checked the pockets before the clothes went into the laundry.
At any rate, I've taken delivery of two new pairs of Land's End cargo pants (navy and khaki) to supplement my limited fleet of cargo pants. Now if I can just find the right gloves...
Posted by JRC at February 16, 2005 04:59 PM | TrackBack