Studio Notes by Shai Coggins» Gadgets, Gadgets

3 Things I Love About Apple TV

Shai Coggins — Sun, 20 Nov 2011 10:29:43 +0000

Back in September, one of the presents that my husband received for Father’s Day was an Apple TV. Yes, yes… Not quite the gift that a 7-yr-old boy and a 4-yr-old girl would usually buy. But hey, other than the handmade laminated paper tie and a card that they made, I’m pretty sure that the hubby wouldn’t have received much else (not that my husband really cares, to be honest; it’s the kids who would be a bit disappointed if they couldn’t give their dad a nice present).

Well, actually, if our son had his way, I would’ve had to organise purchasing a Microsoft Xbox Kinect instead. Nice try, right?

Anyway, ever since seeing this gadget in action in the home of one of our acquaintances, hubby and I knew that having an Apple TV would be pretty cool. And, after having it in our home for about 3 months now, we’re still quite pleased with it.

So, what’s the big deal with Apple TV?

1. Air Play / Air Display – The fact that just about anything on the iPad, iPhone, or iPod Touch can now be easily displayed on a connected television is such a treat. A connected MacBook or iMac can also show its iTunes contents. So yeah, we can now easily watch a missed TV show, for example, using the ABC iView app. We can easily view photos and videos we took. And yes, even play music. This feature alone makes Apple TV quite useful for us.

2. No more rental woes! – Yes, it would still be cheaper for us to rent movies from our local Blockbuster most of the time (unless we’re getting one of iTunes’ cheap rental specials). But, the fact that we can have a family movie night any time now without having to rush out to the DVD shop is a bit of a bonus for us. Especially since we no longer have to worry about overdue fees and such (a common problem for us two very busy working professionals with 2 young kids who are both doing postgrad degrees!).

3. It’s not tied to just one device – or one platform. – Since we’re quite a “mixed” household (in more ways than one!), it’s really good that Apple TV can play different things from a variety of devices and platforms. The boy can play movies he made from his iTouch – or from within iTunes in the Windows computer he uses. We can listen to music from any of our home computers or devices that are connected to the home WiFi.

So yes, our family is definitely enjoying the Apple TV.

Of course, it’s not perfect. I wish Apple would open it up a bit more and not charge so much for the movie rentals and such. And, I wish we can also purchase movies and TV shows from within Apple TV (this may be done through iTunes only, as far as I know).

But, for its price, we still think it’s worth it.

Best Messaging Apps for iPhone / iPad

Shai Coggins — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 11:58:07 +0000

Whilst I travel for work, video and VOIP calls, as well as text messaging, become my lifeline back to my family. Though they may not always be 100% reliable, I know that I feel heaps closer to home just having access to this technology.

For this purpose, I use the following apps the most:

Skype – I find that this is the most reliable technology for keeping in touch virtually. I think the bet part of it is that even though the other person may not be online, it is possible to call them by phone or send them a text message using Skype. In fact, it’s a decent ‘replacement phone’ whilst travelling.

In fact, I have even used this to connect to conference calls while I’m on the road, without wifi access and just on 3G (only locally, not overseas/roaming).

Skype is even an internal messaging system that we even find extremely useful in the office.

I’ve also had the chance to test drive group video calls using Skype, and I thought it was pretty cool.

FaceTime – The ease of use of calling someone using FaceTime is pretty good. If you’re primarily using Apple-to-Apple products within wifi, then it’s cool.

Of course, the downsides are obvious: No easy way to text message within the app (will need something like iMessage), only works with wifi, and no way of using it as a phone replacement.

iMessage – With the introduction of iOS5, iMessage came in to picture. The main advantage of this messaging app is its ability to share pics and text as a group.

How about you? Other than the usual social networks like Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, etc, what’s your favourite way to keep in touch? Preferably, with video/audio options?

Top 5 “To Do” Apps on iPad and/or iPhone

Shai Coggins — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 12:23:09 +0000

I love lists. Before iPads and iPhones, I used to create my lists in organisers, notebooks, Moleskins, Post Its, and goodness knows where else. I still go analogue every now and then, admittedly. But, my list-making inclinations are now mostly created with the use of my digital devices.

Since I find myself answering a lot of iPad/iPhone questions like: “What are the best ‘To Do’ (task management) apps?” on a regular basis, I think it’s high time that I come up with my second round of recommendations. And, following on my theme of giving recommendations based on how I use the apps, I’d like to share with you five of my favourite task management apps.

Some of these ‘To Do’ apps would be universal apps, while others might be iPad or iPhone-specific. My top rated ones are those that generally work across gadgets. In fact, the more compatible they are with different gadgets and platforms, the higher I rank them. Mind you, once you find a task management app that works well for you, you probably don’t need more than a couple of them in your list.

1. Wunderlist – This is probably the only multi-platform, multi-device, cloud syncing task management app that I am aware of. It has iPad, iPhone, Android, Mac, Windows, and web-based apps. That’s why it’s clearly my current favourite ‘To Do’ app. Wish I found it sooner! And yes, best of all, it’s all free.

What I Love: Able to create several lists; syncs ‘To Do’ lists easily and seamlessly when connected to the web; able to share ‘To Do’ lists with others; multi-device and multi-platform compatible; simple list-making and able to make notes (including add due dates, stars for importance); did I mention it was free!?

What I Wish For: A way to get notified when someone adds or checks off a task in group lists; Ability to email and assign tasks; Give different permissions to group members; Ability to email lists

Wunderlist Site

2. Things – I’ve been a ‘Things’ fan for a few years now. I downloaded and paid for its very first desktop release while they were still in beta and early release. When I bought my iPad, it was one of the first things that I purchased. Yes, even though it wasn’t a cheap app and the sync between iPad and Macbook versions was only through wifi, and therefore, dodgy. When I finally got myself an iPhone, I hesitated to pay for the iPhone version because I already feel a bit ripped off having to pay for Macbook and iPad, then again for iPhone. But, I did it anyway, to show my loyalty. But, after a few dodgy syncs in-between gadgets, and the lack of other features that I need at this time of my life, I finally decided to abandon Things in favour of Wunderlist. It’s a nice app, really. But, with so many other options out there and the lack of proper syncing and Universal app availability, I no longer think it’s worth its price.

What I Love: Ability to create Projects, then Lists within those projects; Great interface and features; Recurring lists/’To Do’s; ability to email tasks

What I Wish For: Multi-device and multi-platform availability (for Win, web-based, Android, etc); Improved syncing capabilities; Group lists; Universal app pricing

Things site

3. Google Tasks – If you’re already a Google app user, then this might work well for you. It’s available on the Google app suite (via mobile device, except it doesn’t seem to work on the iPad + web interface). Tasks sync across platforms and devices via the cloud. Simple and also works with Google Calendar.

What I Love: Works well with different Google apps (Calendar, etc); Multi-platform and multi-device; Simple

What I Wish For: Group lists; Ability to email tasks; Email notifications; iPad integration

Google Tasks Site

4. Notebooks – Seeing as it’s one of my favourite notetaking apps, it’s definitely one that I use a lot. And, it helps that notebooks can easily be transformed in to a task-management app. This is especially useful when I’m brainstorming blog posts or writing topics, so I can start listing them as ‘To Do’ lists and check them off when/if I complete them. Tasks may be given due dates and may be emailed too.

What I Love: Great notetaking app with several features; Syncs with Dropbox and several other platforms; May be integrated with a number of apps like Pages; has an iPad and iPhone version (not Universal – need to pay separately)

What I Wish For: Multi-platform compatibility; Universal app; Group lists/tasks; Desktop version

Notebooks Site

5. Bento – Primarily a database manager, Bento may also be used as a task manager as it comes with ‘To Do’ list templates and features. It has a great interface – and it’s available via desktop and mobile devices. But, admittedly, it’s not my default app of choice for task management. However, its ‘To Do’ list function helps when organising certain data. And yes, unfortunately, it can get expensive to buy in to the system.

What I Love: Templates and some features; ability to add different fields to lists

What I Wish For: Multi-platform compatibility; Need to improve overall list function; inexpensive alternative

Bento Site

I have tried many other task management apps on the iPad and iPhone, including Podio and Errands. I’ve also used ‘To Do’ list functions on other apps like iThoughtsHD, Corkulous, and Daily Notes. Although I like them and I can see some interesting uses of each one, I find that it’s best to keep to a couple of systems.

What about you? What’s your favourite task management app on the iPad and/or the iPhone?

Also see: Top 5 Presentation Apps for the iPad

On The iPad Experience: A 2-Week Perspective

Shai Coggins — Fri, 11 Jun 2010 07:36:41 +0000

aka “All The Different Ways That I Use my iPad”

It has been two weeks since the international launch of the iPad. And yes, two weeks since I’ve been playing with Celebration, my cool new toy – my belated birthday present and my post-prac gift rolled into one.

I’m sure most people would be way over all the iPad talk by now. And, I can’t blame anyone for that. After all, it seems to be dominating the media lately. But, since a few people have been asking me what I thought of my own iPad experience, I thought I’d finally weigh in and share my review.

And yes, I’ve read and heard all the arguments about it. I’ve definitely acquainted myself with all its limitations, which is something I’m sure a number of the “iPad haters” never even bothered to try first hand.

But yeah, I know what the iPad doesn’t have and what it can’t do.

Admittedly, I felt the “missing stuff” for a short while when I first started playing with this gadget. I even felt a pang of disappointment knowing I can’t play DVDs and access Flash-based websites and do direct printing. Or even plug a USB directly in to it. And yes, it does get a bit heavy to hold with one hand while you’re lying down in bed trying to read an interactive book to your li’l one. I’m even one of those people who isn’t overly impressed with its given name. But, hey…

Anyway, the other stuff that some people complain about – the lack of camera, the lack of offerings in the international iBooks store, the on-screen keyboard, the not-up-to-par e-ink technology/ebook reading screen… They don’t bother me all that much.

In fact, the more I use the iPad, the more I find myself not missing the other stuff that I felt bad about initially.

Mind you, I don’t own an iPhone or an iPod touch or a Kindle or a pressure-sensitive tablet or a netbook. So, I can’t exactly know what it’s like for those folks who own those gadgets.

Me… Well, I’m happy to report that I’m one blissful iPad owner so far.

Sure, it’s not perfect. And, if you’re a heavy computer user like I am, it can’t possibly replace an existing computer or laptop. But, the thing is, I don’t think the iPad was ever designed as a replacement computer. That’s why it was never a secret that it’s meant to sync with iTunes on an existing computer. I think that made it pretty clear that the iPad is more of an extension of a current system, rather than a replacement. That’s why the netbook and laptop or desktop computer comparisons never really made much sense to me.

But, isn’t that a bit too frivolous, some of you might ask. What’s the point of buying an iPad then if a netbook is cheaper and maybe more capable in some ways (USB ports, etc)?

Well, my answer to people who asked me these types of questions: It depends on what you want out of your tech set-up.

If you just want a replacement or another portable computer that’s primarily for word-processing, browsing the web, etc, that’s inexpensice and portable, then perhaps a netbook will suit you more than an iPad.

Although I don’t know about you, but I’ve tinkered with a couple of those netbook computers and I’m pretty sure they won’t make great ebook readers… Nor will they be any good in making digital art.

So, why not buy a Kindle instead? Well, if you’re happy with your computer set-up and all you want is a nice ebook reader, then maybe you can forget the iPad. I heard the Kindle screen is kinder on the eyes and lighter to hold while lying in bed.

But, since I don’t usually read lying down (I tend to read in bed either lying on my tummy with elbows propped, or I lie on my side with my arms/hands resting on the bed) — unless I’m reading to my kids in bed — the weight doesn’t usually bother me, even if I don’t exactly have strong biceps. And, seriously, with the kind of delighted looks that my kids have when I’m reading them an iPad children’s ebook… I’d gladly endure the tiny twinges on my arms for a few minutes.

I don’t think you’d get a Guided Reading version of kids’ books on a Kindle. Not to mention, all those colours and interactive learning elements! This type of reading experience is definitely one of the reasons that I wanted an iPad from the start. It’s really exciting stuff, especially considering that we’ve only just started exploring the possibilities. As a geeky mum, educator, and children’s writer, I can’t help but be thrilled.

I believe I will always love “real” books… In fact, even though I’m a gadget girl, and I’ve developed a certain interest in ebooks… I never got excited about them in a big way until now.

So, what about that tablet thing? Aren’t we all better off with a Wacom or something?

If you’re planning to create digital art seriously, then a decent Wacom tablet’s definitely the way to go. Goodness knows how much I’ve been lusting after an Intuos. I just couldn’t justify the expense, as I don’t know how much I’d be using it. That’s why I only managed to buy myself a cheap Wacom Graphire tablet a few years ago. But, I never quite got the hang of it. So, I still didn’t make as much digital art as I’d like.

Besides, even if I did want to try and practise sketching, it isn’t easy to sketch ideas on the go while lugging a laptop and a tablet. Well, that’s what moleskins and pens are for, you might say. And, I would generally agree, as that’s one of the reasons I often have at least a pocket moleskine and a couple of pens in my bag. Not that I take them out that often. And, even when I do take them out, I still have the issue of having to scan them, if I ever want to use those sketches for some purpose.

Just the other day, however, whilst I was on the train… I got inspired to do some life sketching… With no sketchbook or pen or coloured pencils, I just decided to take out my iPad and do a couple of quick sketches of my ideas (in colour!) using a couple of favorite art apps. Afterwards, I could even decide just to email myself a copy of the sketch so that I can work on it more using a more sophisticated art program. No need to scan or take photos to turn my quick sketching session in to digital format.

And yes, I think I’ve done more digital art in 2 weeks than I have done in 5 years since getting my Wacom. It’s just so much more fun and easier on the iPad!

Other than ebook reading and digital art making, I found myself using the iPad more and more for note taking and organising. When I get a writing or blogging idea while I’m on the go, I just take out my iPad and start working on an article, story, or blog post. In fact, the beginnings of this blog post was started while I was on my way home on the train. I’ve continued writing it while I’m lying in bed, unable to fall asleep.

I can even record voice messages on it (my voice or other people’s – for meetings, lectures, interviews, etc) for personal use… Or to send as voice emails.

I also find it so much easier to use the iPad for organizing my calendars (even syncs with Google Calendar!)… And my To Do List… Because the iPad is ALWAYS with me now. Especially since it fits snugly in to my little pink bag inside its fitted purple Belkin soft case. Plus, it turns on and off instantly! I can’t do that with my laptop. I only take my laptop with me when I really have to.

I have also been using my iPad for some reading and writing practice with my kids. I’m even using a couple of handwriting apps as part of a case study that I’m currently working on for uni. So yes, I’d be writing an academic paper with an iPad mention in it. Heh.

I am also able to check and send quick emails while I’m in Wi-Fi hotspot cafés and malls. Like the other day, when my daughter was happily playing in a playground in the mall, I was able to send off a couple of rush emails when I found out that I was able to connect to the internet for free on my iPad while I was watching her play.

And yes, I have even learned to enjoy “letting my hair down” a bit, as I started playing some games again during my down time. Even playing some games with hubby and the kids. Something I haven’t done in a loooonnnggg time.

Some people might say the productivity apps, email checking and games are old news. They’ve been available on smartphones and iPods for a while now. But, as I said, I don’t have an iPhone or an iPod Touch, so the iPad has a place in my set-up.

Although, having said that, even if I did have an iPhone or an iPod Touch, I can’t imagine the experience being the same. Like, when I was playing this 2-player game on the iPad with my family. That experience can’t possibly be done on a small screen. And, since I’ve never been a fan of SMS/Text messaging, the idea of writing and reading emails on small screens just don’t appeal to me.

And yes… probably the boldest thing I’ve done with my iPad to date was to use it as a tool during a work-related presentation (yep, plugged it in to a huge plasma screen with a VGA connector). It was definitely useful to have an iPad while trying to deliver the message that when it comes to online content, mobile devices and apps are key. I think the message wouldn’t have been as clear had I been using a USB stick or a laptop.

So yeah, the iPad can’t take photos or videos. It can’t make calls, print directly, run DVDs, or plug USBs. There are a lot of other gadgets out there that can possibly do things better on an individual app level.

But, for ALL the things that it CAN do, I doubt if there’s anything quite like the iPad right now.

And like any True Love, it’s easier to get past the iniquities because the rest of it is just way too good to pass up.

For me, the iPad’s definitely keeper.

- Blogged from my iPad

5 Kick-Ass Brain Dumping Apps { Web Wednesday #28 }

Shai Coggins — Wed, 24 Mar 2010 12:41:48 +0000

I can’t help it. I’m a geeky app-loving girl. Tell me about a new app or gadget, and I’d be stupidly excited about it. Only time and/or finances will keep me from trying a new app or gadget.

And, as I’ve already confessed, I’m also a nerdy idea-loving girl. I need all the assistance that I can get when it comes to working out and playing with all the ideas that come to me.

So, if you show me apps or gadgets that will aid my idea brain dumps, then I’m easily sold.

But, what do I mean by brain dumping apps? For me, it’s a multi-purpose, catch-all app that enable me to brainstorm, collect and expand ideas, make lists, add images, audio, and/or video, plus more, if possible. Of course, good ol’ pen and paper still work very well for me. But, I’m certainly a fan of the fancy electronic versions too.

Now let me share with you some of my favourite brain dumping apps so far…

> Curio (Mac Only) – In my experience, this is probably THE brain dumping app to beat for me. I’ve only started using it, but I’m already completely addicted. You can do mind maps, make to do lists (or any other kind of lists), create sketches, organise files, manage a project, fill out a dossier, record video and audio, create presentations, and much more. If you have an Evernote account, it works with Curio too! So far, I’m using it to re-plot and re-organise my current novel, plan my projects, create unit or lesson plans, collect notes on courses/workshops I’m taking, and brainstorm ideas. I love it. It does have a few bugs (e.g., it can get quite slow at times, cross-linking pages is not the best, mindmap is okay for simpler stuff, etc). But, regardless of the down parts, I’m still taken with it. In fact, I think it’s the first app that made me stop missing MS OneNote. Currently, Curio 6 Standard costs $99, while the Professional version costs $149 (to me, the pro is so worth it). Students and teachers get a discounted version (I think the Pro is $80). There’s a 15-day trial available (may be extended upon request).

> Microsoft OneNote (Windows Only) – When I switched to Mac, there were only two apps that I missed the most: MS OneNote and Picasa. Thankfully, Picasa eventually became available to Mac users. And, no matter how many other similar Mac apps I’ve tried, nothing came quite close to OneNote. Well, until I found Curio. But, yes, if you’re a Windows user and you’re not using OneNote (and you love brainstorming/brain dumping, then I think you’re missing out. MS OneNote is available to try for 60 days. It’s available at either $79/$99.

> Evernote (Mac, Windows, iPhone, Web) – It was love-at-first sight… this thing I have with Evernote. Ever since I learned about it, I knew it was a keeper app. It’s a wonderful brain dumping app as you can pretty capture everything – images, audio, text, web links, screen shots… You can even make it work online, via email, your iPhone, and on your desktop. I love that it can also recognise text within images (e.g., capture a business card information via your phone, send to your Evernote account, and you can search it later on). You can even organise your notes, files, and records in notebooks or by tags. It’s really great! I know I don’t use it often enough, but I’m hoping to learn how to incorporate its use much better. One of the best things about it is that it’s FREE! But, for more space and versatility, you can upgrade to a Premium account for $5/month or $45/year.

> VoodooPad Pro (Mac Only) – Compared to the first three apps I mentioned, this one seems pretty basic. What I like about VoodooPad, though, is the power in its simplicity. It’s a great little electronic notebook that you can transform in to a mini-Wiki in your computer. You can start a document and link pages within that document fairly easily. You can add all sorts of things to it – like PDF files and images. You can even draw/sketch in to it. And, while they used to charge for VoodooPad Pro, it’s now available for free. However, they still have an upgraded version (VoodooPad 4.2.3) for $39.95 (or $19.95 if upgrading from a previous paid version).

> Google Notes / Google Docs (Web) – This isn’t quite as high-tech or versatile or pretty like the others I’ve mentioned earlier. But, one great thing about Google Notes / Docs is the ability to use these brain dumping apps as collaborative tools. Yes, with the help of Google Notes/Docs, we can brain dump together!

How about you? Do you have any favourite brain dumping apps that you’d like to recommend or share with us? Do you use any of these apps that I’ve shared? If so, how do you use them?

Today is Clean Out Your Computer Day!

Shai Coggins — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 07:54:18 +0000

So, it’s Clean Out Your Computer Day today, 8th Feb. Or, so I’m told.

Before this day arrived, the folks at iolo Technologies contacted me a few months ago to tell me about their product, System Mechanic. Although my main machine is a Mac, our mixed household still has two PC machines – a 5-year-old desktop and a 4-year-old laptop. Both machines have just been sooooooo slow. It’s ridiculous. I really don’t use them anymore, unless I absolutely have to. They’re primarily used by my hubby when he works from home, and occasionally by the kiddos when they do games and homework.

That’s why when iolo’s spokesperson asked me if I want to give System Mechanic a whirl, I thought, why not? Besides, I really wanted to help hubby and the kids with their home computing needs by speeding up their computer a bit.

In a nutshell, System Mechanic is an app for PC users who need to get their computers in tip-top shape. Once installed, you can let it analyse your computer and find the necessary fixes, then let it fix your machine. The general idea is that it will free up some space for your computer – and allow it to function better.

From my experience with System Mechanic, I was impressed with the quick download and installation process. All very intuitive. Of course, once installed, I needed to reboot my system. Then, I let the new app run. From the initial run, I believe it freed up at least 30MB’s worth of space from our desktop PC. And, according to my husband (the desktop’s main user), he said he thought the clean-up got rid of some annoying pop-ups and sped up the reboot/startup process a little bit (not much, but still…).

I don’t think it’s possible to get back to its “brand new state” unless we uninstall a bunch of stuff. But, I do think using the desktop PC has become a bit more bearable. And, combined with Google Chrome, internet browsing has definitely become faster in our old PC.

So, what about you? What are you planning to do today – for Clean Out Your Computer Day? When was the last time you tried to tune your computer?

Anyway, if you decide to try iolo’s System Mechanic, they’re running a special from today (8th Feb) until the 25th Feb. They’re giving out a 50% discount during this promo period. And, if you’re keen, do read their 10 Clean Out Tips for some ideas on how to clean your computer.

Full Disclosure: This is not a sponsored post, but I have been provided with a review copy of the app.

10 Great Things for Creative Geeks (2009 Edition)

Shai Coggins — Sun, 27 Dec 2009 20:12:30 +0000

Well, Christmas has come and gone. But, the festive season doesn’t feel over just yet.

I’ve been meaning to put up my holiday list for our 52WoC #47 task. But, since I’m away on holiday, this has been something on my To Do list that kept getting put to the side.

So now, I’ve tried to make some time to share this wish list of sorts for fellow creative geeky types. Some of them I’ve already purchased for myself. Others, I wish I could get a hold of some time!

Let’s see if you agree…

1. iPhone – Ah, the ultimate item from my gadget wish list at the moment. I’ve been longing for one over the last couple of years. But, since I’m not really a heavy mobile phone user, I’ve found it difficult to justify the expense of getting one of ‘em. I’m slowly caving in, though. Mostly due to some really cool-looking apps that I’ve been coming across. Argh.

2. Kindle (International Edition) – Now that Amazon has finally released an international version of this electronic reader, I’ve decided to give it more thought. It’s certainly something that I’d like to have one day.

3. iPod Nano – If I’m not getting an iPhone any time soon, I definitely would like an iPod Nano with video, please.

4. Diana Deluxe Kit (or at least a Mini Diana!) – Yes, I finally have the Mini Diana. ‘been playing with it over the last month during the Big Trip. I just put my first three films for developing. Not sure yet how it would go. But, this is certainly an interesting gadget to have if you ever wish to explore lomo/low-fi photography. I’ll try to write a full review of the Mini and share some pics when I get the chance.

5. Fuji Cheki Instamax 55 (or 55i) – So, I got one of these cool cameras just before I left for The Big Trip of 2009. And, I’m absolutely loving it. Already ‘been quite a hit with folks too. I think it’s great to be able to do instant photography again. There are other instant cameras around, I know. This one made this list after weeks of research and my own experience with it.

6. Adobe CS4 Suite – I’ve longed to have a full CS4 suite for a while now. And, thanks to my student status, I finally managed to grab a great deal off eBay on a Student Version of Adobe CS4 Premium Collection for Mac. And, although I haven’t been able to explore it fully yet, I must say that for all the times I’ve used it, I’ve fallen in love with the apps. It’s absolutely fab! I can’t wait to learn and use ‘em more.

7. Scrivener (for Macs only) – This is the app that made me want to make the switch from PC to Mac. I finally became an avid Mac Girl almost 3 years ago. Strangely enough, I didn’t purchase this software until this year. And, I’m glad I finally did. It’s the app that helped me to finish my second fiction manuscript! Yes, I’ve completed a novel again this year, some time during NaNoWriMo. Unfortunately, I didn’t meet the 50K target for NaNo. But, I still finished my first draft using Scrivener. So, yay!

8. Moleskine Journals – I love ‘em. I don’t use ‘em often enough, I must say. But, I think all creative geeks must have at least one moleskine journal on the go at any given time.

9. Flip Video – I got my first Flip video about 2 years ago. I bought two back then, and although one has somehow conked out, I’m still using the other one. And, I still love it. I know they’ve upgraded the latest versions somewhat and one day, I’m hoping to get a new one.

10. Nikon D3S DSLR – If I were upgrading my beloved Nikon D40x (now 2 years old!) right now, I’d be turning to this cool-looking Nikon D3S DSLR. But, it’s not the right time yet. And, even if I had some spare cash for photography-related gadgets, I’d probably be looking in to getting other types of gear. So, for now, this is just a dream.

So, which one of these things do you own already? Which ones do you wish to have too? Any other things you’d like to add to this list?

Studio Notes by Shai Coggins» Gadgets, Gadgets

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