We finally got our hands on the first production samples of the Lightscoop. They're going to require a bit more tweeking, as it turns out. Fitting those tricky little feet into the hot shoes on the different camera models has been no easy feat!

But it does appear that early- to mid-June delivery to our fulfillment partner is really going to happen. And that means we'll be able to take orders then. I just haven't felt comfortable accepting orders until I KNOW when the Lightscoops will be in hand.

As frustrating as the wait has been, I'm fascinated at how much is involved in bringing out such a simple product. I can't even imagine manufacturing something complex. Manufacturing is so very different from teaching, shooting, or writing — an entirely new exercise for the brain. Everyday issues for businesses everywhere are new challenges for us: How many Lightscoops to order without ordering too many; how to set inventory alerts; paying for the whole process without going broke IN the process.

Meanwhile, I'm revising my textbook for its 6th edition and trying to figure out how to prepare students to work in and survive the groundswell of changes rippling throughout the field of photojournalism. My new chapters include recording audio and shooting video, for example. New challenges on all fronts.

On a completely different note, if you haven't subscribed to Photojojo, you're missing out on a lot of  informative, often quirky, bits and pieces of photo gear, ideas, projects. Photojojo pointed its subscribers to commercial photographer George Lang's clever flipbook a couple of months ago. Definitely worth a look.

Now Photojojo has created a tutorial showing how you can make your own.

Enjoy.