Nimble Store Update

I've been so happy with the response to the Nimble Store. Everyone has been quite enthusiastic. (I like enthusiasm...)

All in all, the mechanics of the store have been working pretty darn well. As you may have guessed, I tested every aspect of this operation before going live. The first batch of orders will be shipped today via USPS. I'm still trying to smooth out that process a bit. If you have any questions about your order, you can use the contact form on the site, and I'll respond as quickly as possible.

I also noticed that a bug surfaced last night in how the Store software generates the invoice that is sent to you, the nimble customer. The total is correct, but it's listing multiple items from just a single order. I checked with Squarespace right away when this issue surfaced, and they said they're already working on it. The good news is that we can process the orders normally with the correct amounts. Just look at the bottom line on your invoice. If it's correct, we're gold.

And so far, knock on wood, that' it. So the gist is that the orders start shipping today, and they are correct. We'll continue to smooth out the other few rough spots in the meantime.

Thanks so much for being a charter member of our nimble photography community. This is going to be a blast!

-Derrick

The Bag Room

Anyone who has ever seen my podcasting set up at the studio knows about the Bag Room. It's a crazy man cave sort of place that includes a worktable, recording equipment, printers, storage, and yes, a wall of Lowepro bags. 

As the Photography Evangelist for Lowepro, I test and keep a wide variety of bags on hand. This helps me answer questions from users and allows me to experiment with all sorts of different configurations. 

I have my favorites, of course: the Urban Reporter 150, DSLR Video Fastpack 150 AW, and our own Nimble Photographer shoulder bag. But I use many different carrying solutions depending on the assignment at hand. 

One of the terrific side benefits, in addition to having an outstanding bag collection, is that they help dampen the sound while recording podcasts. It's really quiet in the Bag Room... And you just thought I had a good radio voice.

-Derrick

Mr. SizzlPix

Before my technology gathering tonight at the Metreon in SF, I'm going to meet with Don Sherman. To many of us, he is Mr. SizzlPix.

I ordered three new SizzlPix from Don to hang in the TDS gallery for my upcoming Fall Photography Workshop. I like rotating the pictures so participants always have something new to see. Don suggested that we meet in the City to catch up instead of shipping the pictures. Since I was going to be in town anyway, I thought that was a great idea.

I still remember the first time Don showed me his new product. He drove all the way to Santa Rosa from Cupertino. His sample SizzlPix were wrapped in a blanket. As he proudly unveiled them, he said, "I'm really too old to be starting yet another career, but I'm just so darn excited about this process."

That was many years and SizzlPix ago (that are now hanging in my gallery.)"

The number one comment that I get when people gaze upon the images hanging in my gallery is... "Did you take those?"

Not sure if that's a complement or not.

-Derrick

Say Hey

One of the things that I like about our photography community is that we're friendly. Feels like the neighbor next door who always says hi when passing by.

Today was the launch of The Nimble Photographer site.  And very much in character, many folks stopped by to say hey during their busy day. I thought you might like to read a few of their remarks.

"I, too, am keen to travel light. At the moment that means a Fujifilm X100 and an Olympus Trip so I get the best of both worlds, film and digital. All the best for your online shop," -FotoMarg

"Congrats on the new site. I really like the Journal section as well as the Fit Kits. I would definitely like to contribute mine some time. Good luck and I will be sure to recommend it to some of my friends..." -Mike B.

"Looking forward to this feature. Good luck," -Anthony F.

"Vision+Creativity+Commitment=Reality! Great job, Derrick for making it happen. Love the site and the Nimble branding," -Janet G.

"I know what I am going to order soon! Very cool Derrick, and congrats on the launch of a COOL brand," -Mark H.

"Congrats on launching the venture! The site looks great, and a great addition to the TDS community," -Rohith T. 

"Oh to be nimble once again!" -Harry M.

"Sweet!" -Kristofor L. 

"Congrats Derrick -- looks like a terrific project!!" -Kelli R.

"Had a look. Nice. Couple of items in my cart but trigger as yet unpulled," -Les R.

"Congratulations Derrick… wishing you much success…!" -James H.

"Well done. Great idea. It never ceases to amaze me that some of the best ideas in different fields emerge from the desire for simplicity. Simple, direct pursuits: uncomplicated, single focus," -Alan M.

 "Just ordered the messenger bag…can’t wait to get it. Also saw a response to my photo help desk question today. Woot!" -Victoria D.

And thank you, everyone, for making today's debut a memorable experience.  

I'll be in SF tomorrow, look for photos and/or a report from the City. 

-Derrick

Open for Business

Nimble photography has been my lifelong journey. And finally, I've created a base camp for others who share my passion for traveling light.

So what is going on here?

Well, you already know about the Journal. Think of this as the virtual leather-bound notebook that I carry in my bag to jote down ideas and experiences. It's a record of my journey moving forward. And I'm hoping it will provide both entertainment and insights. I want to share some of your stories too.

What the Journal is to words, Walkabout will be to pictures. As I explore this world, I photograph it. Sometimes I use my iPhone and post to Instagram. Other times I use a dedicated camera and share on Flickr. Walkabout is where the latest of those images will appear.

And there's a place there for you. If you have a fit kit that you want to show off, send me a link to the photo via our Contact page. You're not sure what a fit kit is? Then you're in for a treat. I've assembled some fun examples on our very own Fit Kit page.

And what decent nimble photographer would saunter out into the world without a respectable hat, comfortable T-Shirt, or stylish messenger bag? Welcome to the Nimble Store where you can browse items that are truly unique and available only here. And more items are on the way.

This is only the beginning. Our community here will take on the character of those who participate. So please share your thoughts and images via the Contact page, and let's take this journey together.

-Derrick