This probably will offend a lot of so-called purists, but I communicate via wireless broadband while outdoors. I’m frequently thumb-typing away on my cell phone, updating Twitter and sending Qik videos wherever possible. Some might say that this type of activity takes away from the reason why a lot people retreat to trails and other remote areas – to escape the day-to-day grind and the constant distractions that consume our lives.
I admit, I don’t like it too much when people talk a whole bunch on their cell phone while outdoors either. There’s a fine line between keeping people informed on your whereabouts and being annoying. Letting someone know that you are fine and the trip is going well and as planned is one thing, but blabbing on and on to your cousin in Shreveport about when the next Phish concert is or how much beer you drank the night before is a little inconsiderate. We’ve all experienced these people at trail shelters, campsites, or passing by in a canoe, right? Right.
This is what makes services like Qik and Twitter great for updating friends and family while on a long hike or a multi-day adventure. You’ll be hard pressed here in Florida to find a place where you can’t find a decent enough signal to send a text message. Sending live video with Qik allows for others to share a little bit of your adventure, and Twitter messages can provide a discreet way to pass along updates on how your outing is going. Doing this while a bunch of folks are not around or not making a spectacle out of yourself are both good things. Now you can use technology to stay safe, inform others of your location, and share your adventures without being that guy whose phone will probably end up in the campfire.
I’ve submitted the term “Treets” to be added to the Twittonary. It’s derived from Trail Tweets, and can be used to let people know that you are sending a tweet while out hiking, biking, trail running – whatever. Here are some examples:
“Latest treet – just passed the A-B connector. Should be at campsite in two hours.”
Or:
“Holy treet! I think I just saw a Skunk Ape!”
Be on the lookout for interesting treets from me here: twitter.com/kevinmims (and follow me!) and come up with some more outdoor phrases to add to the Twittonary. Now, hit the trail and do some treeting!
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I got a chance to go up to the top of Bok Tower! Now, not every Tom, Dick, and Harry gets to go up there, you have to be somebody to gain access to this incredible structure. That said, I’m not too sure how I got in…
Visit www.boktowergardens.org for more information on this amazing [...]
So I was stingy and never shared this video here with you, my loyal fans. It’s been sitting on my YouTube channel, but for some reason I didn’t post it here. Sorry, homeboys and homegirls, hopefully you will be nice and give me a pass this time, it won’t happen again.
We all know and faithfully [...]
December 16th, 2008 at 10:03 am
I agree Kevin. Proper tweeting can be unobtrusive and useful. I’m new to twitter, but I am already enjoying its benefits. Friendfeed is great too.
Be sure to tweet right away if you spot an ivory-billed woodpecker!
December 18th, 2008 at 7:56 am
I’ve done a few Twitter updates with my phone - I wish I could do photos, but I can’t use a camera phone at work, so I’m kind of stuck in the dark ages, at the moment. What are you using to make the videos? They are really sharp!
December 18th, 2008 at 9:32 am
Thanks Roy!
The camera I mainly use is a Sony HDR-SR11. It has been fantastic, and takes decent 10 megapixel photos too. You can get good results on other HD camcorders, I also carry one of those little $100 Aiptek cameras sometimes too.
I’m actually thinking of revamping my video style somewhat. I love journal-style video and the way it can show the place for what it really is. I’m not a big believer in too much spit-and-polish on video, it can be misleading. But, I think in the future I may use some better intros, voiceovers, etc to make the videos a little more helpful.
December 18th, 2008 at 3:44 pm
Great site. Love the integration of twitter and video. I think you may have inspired me to start twittering.. I will not do it (i say this now.. hah) twitter or post while camping..
Eric
December 18th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
oops.. my email address is all messed up. Thought you’d like to see my ugly mugg
Eric