The iPad According to Pie
I hadn't really consider getting an iPad when it was launched earlier this year. I could not see the need for it, between my Mac Book(s), Kindle and iPhone, I was set. I did not think the iPad could do anything, these three devices didn't already do. Then I started reading about photographers like Jeff Singer, using it as a portfolio. Bingo!
There is no question of how beautiful images look on this thing. However it is really the ease of use that is most attractive to me. The ability to show a potential client your newest work at a moments notice in a slick format is big. The search for the perfect portfolio presentation has plagued photographers for decades. Though this may not completely replace a traditional printed book (and I'm not really sure it can't) it definitely makes for a dynamic supplement.
I created a branded home screen image and chose a dynamic favorite for the lock screen. So when I hand it over to an art director this is what they see first. My other apps are hidden on other screens. The built in photo app, though workable, is far from ideal and there is a real need for a good portfolio app that would allow you to customize your presentation. I only found one so far but the reviews are overwhelmingly bad and the website confusing and lacking in information.
My wish list would include; the ability to customize type, headings and background colors, a choice to hide or show thumbnails, to be able to edit portfolios, also a way to email your portfolio or selected images as a slick PDF and the ability to upload a custom button so it can sit on my home screen. I have this option for my website (above), so anyone can add a direct link as a custom button to their own device, love that.
The other thing I have discovered with the iPad is how amazing magazines are on this thing. WOW! Not only do they look great but the ability to easily carry literally stacks of them with you when traveling, while also eliminating the clutter in my house, just makes me extra happy. I also love having access to a range of unique and foreign magazines, like Dish, a cool food magazine from New Zealand, I'd never even seen before. I think there is incredible potential here for that industry, which has had major trouble competing with the internet. Vanity Fair for example included special iPad only features including behind the scenes video and a feature on Emma Watson. This outlet could be a huge boost for the future of printed media.
I really love how Pie looks on it, it formats perfectly.
My Must Have Apps
- Zinio: this is a magazine store app, like Hudson News in an app! free for the app~ content varies
- Ebay: excellent! So easy to search and browse, like it much better than the actual site. free
- Amazon Kindle: Your entire Kindle library at your finger tips (still prefer my Kindle to read on). free
- NPR: So easy to navigate, lots of interesting content. free
- Flickr Stackr: Gives you full access to your Flickr archive also allows you to upload from the iPad. 99¢
- Found: Fun little app with the same content as the online magazine but not the ads. free
All in all, I am very happy with this device and excited about its potential as both a promotional tool and for research and entertainment. It's also sleek, beautiful and easy to use. I have read where some photographers have even dropped them off for creatives, I admit I find that pretty brave. Though an actual printed book can actually cost much more and dropping these off at magazines and ad agencies is a common practice. I also found some good insights on one of my favorite blogs, A Photo Editor, a must read for serious shooters.
Of course, you need the perfect cover/case as well. Have no fear, I have been on the hunt and will be reviewing some interesting options later this month along with another giveaway.
all device photos & content © Lara Rossignol
Vanity Fair Cover: Annie Leibovitz, Emma Watson: Patrick Demarchelier Country Living: Miki Duisterhof
Tuesday, June 8, 2010 at 5:00AM
Reader Comments (7)
I really like this idea and have been considering it as well. You may have convinced me. Your work is very impressive by the way, as is your blog. I have yet to see another photographer's blog to compare.
Great info thanks. Very impressive device the potential is amazing.
Great post. Love the first image and I also like how you did your home screen picture. Great ideal to add the type.
That is awesome Lara! I keep telling myself that I had no need for one but yet I played with one at Best Buy for a while ;-p
Nice review! I've been using the PhotoPad app for my Flickr photos, I really like how I can upload new pics straight to Flickr and instantly have them available for viewing on my iPad. One other app to check out is the Tilt Shift Generator -- so much fun! It's like having a lensbaby that's easier to use LOL. I can't wait to see your case reviews :)
I really like your breakdown and your wish list. I have been thinking about an iPad and you have given me a few more reasons to consider it. I thank you, though my bank account may not! ;)
Fantastic info! I really how you photographed the ipad too. You are amazing.