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Although not what I expected PMA 2010 turned out to be a lot of fun. It was a real trade show with bikini wearing models and everything.

It was clearly for business, for the mom and pap camera store in Somewhere, CA. Several booths were there solely to show off equipment that someone without a reseller’s license could not use.

I had an opportunity to meet the host of The Candid Frame, Ibarionex Perillo. He was a real pleasure to speak with and was happy to hear that people are listening to his show. The Candid Frame interviews lots of successful photographers with several different styles. Recently interviewing Jay Maisel and Greg Gorman, his show is great to see a little about the styles and workflow of photographers.

Sony’s booth was somewhat of a cave, being fairly dark and lots of paths through it. But it had a really appealing feel about it, like you were entering a darkroom. And across the way Nikon’s booth was looking very nice and clean. You can’t go wrong with setting up 4 500mm lenses. And there was of course an undercover big guy watching the cameras closely. I can’t say I liked their presentation space which seemed to be in the way of everything.

I was certainly sold for Pelican Cases. They are made in the right material with military precision. And the padding material can be shaped however you want. They’re air tight, waterproof and have a decompression valve. You can chain this to the seat when you’re sleeping at the airport.

The Hiti P11os Pocket Studio looked like a great way to make some money at events. Its a little 4×6 printer that is portable and costs about $250. Each print is under $1.00 and I immediately thought of the river rafting in Three Rivers and rodeos. I think I might seriously do this… then (because I’m making money) I’ll finally be a professional photographer (which is ridiculous, but true).

There so many exhibitors there including Lowepro, Tamrac, Ilford, Freestyle Photography, on and on and on. Many of the larger companies had conference rooms that they would meet with potential clients.

Freebees – 10% off Borrow Lenses and 50 business cards from Moo.

PMA 2010 – A great show.