Periscoping Tools

As a broadcaster, I'm always looking for ways to give my viewers the best experience possible. From lenses to tripods to microphones, there are things I've tested, things I look forward to trying out, and tips and tricks I've picked up along the way.

I'll keep you updated as we go along.

Since I mainly broadcast landscape scenery while hiking and adventuring in the mountains or while relaxing at the beach, I needed a phone case with a wrist strap and/or one that would protect my phone whether I dropped it in sand or water, or halfway down the mountain (heaven forbid!). I also needed a microphone that would reduce ambient noise and wind.

Here's what I currently use for broadcasting on Periscope.

The hitcase waterproof and shockproof case allows me to scope with complete peace of mind. By itself, the case has a strap that I can secure to my wrist. With the shootR pole, the case slides on and locks into place. Compared to a selfie stick, in which the phone could possibly be knocked out of the clamp, your hitcase protected phone isn't going anywhere.

hitcase pro+ action pack for iphone 6/6s includes:

100% waterproof/shockproof case

trueLUX super wide angle lens

shootR pole

stickR mount

railslide mount

(hitcase for iphone 5/5s here)

TYLT 2-pack portable battery charger

While I hate to admit that I use a selfie stick, I received one for Christmas from my secret santa, and it comes in handy in one situation: when I use the lapel mic. The plug for the mic is too big and doesn't fit with the Hitcase on (or any case)...and without the Hitcase, there is no shootR pole. Thus, the selfie stick.

lavalier lapel clip-on microphone

selfie stick

apple earpods with mic

(not shown)

Oh...and the most important periscoping gear? the aloha hat + ray-bans.

Do you use any special gear for broadcasting?

What's your essential tool?

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you might like these:

additional hitcase accessories:

Manoa Falls Trail | Honolulu, O'ahu

If you want a quick and easy hike, take the family to manoa falls trail. In less than a mile, you'll be rewarded with a waterfall with an impressive height of 150 ft. While there is a pool, it has been cabled off due to recent rockslides. Along the way, though, the tall canopied trees of the lush manoa valley are a sight to see...you'll even spot a bamboo forest.

most of the trail is covered.

the stream along the way.

if you hike after rain, the trail can get muddy and slippery. 

iced coffee while we wait for our pho.

Have you been to Manoa Falls?

Do you go chasing waterfalls?

see my periscope video of manoa falls on katch.

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must see: yes

entrance fee: no

parking: yes, $5

bathrooms: yes (at snack shop)

good for kids: yes because it's fairly short, under 1 mile

(you know your child best)

concession: rainbow's end snack shop near parking lot

approximate time needed: 45 min - 1 hr round-trip,

depending on trail condition and time spent at the falls

suggested items to bring: insect repellent

tip 1: for a more challenging workout,

park on the street in the neighborhood and walk to the trail head for a little more distance. you'll also save $5 on parking.

tip 2: check out the lyon arboretum while you're there. there's a more challenging trail there. closed sundays.

what to do after: breakfast at morning glass coffee (busy on weekends) or lunch at pho viet restaurant.

37 Manoa Road | Honolulu, HI | 98622

Diamond Head Crater | Honolulu, O'ahu

Are you ready to hike Hawaii's most recognized landmark? Diamond Head Crater is the result of a volcanic explosion and has become a popular hiking trail. The top of the crater, with an elevation of about 760 ft, overlooks the southern shores, east oahu, a peek inside the crater, and more.

In my opinion, this is a fairly quick and easy hike at approximately 1.5 miles round trip; we have made it to the top in under 30 minutes. However, the trail is narrow and the crowds can slow you down. In addition, most of the trail is uncovered, and the dry terrain will only amplify the heat. Make sure to drink water or avoid peak sun.

you can see the trail/switchbacks here if you look closely.

we made it for the sunrise!

(along with a gazillion other people.)

stairs, stairs, and more stairs!

beyond the crater: kaimuki town.

south shores + koko head crater in the distance.

stairs going down.

beautiful view of the big blue.

looking into the crater.

Have you hiked Diamond Head Crater?

Was the inside of the crater what you expected?

see my periscope video of diamond head crater on katch.

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must see: yes

hours: 6am-6pm daily (last entrance at 4:30pm)

entrance fee: walk-in is $1/person or $5/car (cash only)

parking: yes, $5/car at main lot,

limited free parking along the drive up.

bathrooms: yes

good for kids: yes because it's fairly short, but there are a couple of steep areas/stairways and uneven ground.

(you know your child best)

concession: a couple of food trucks selling shave ice, etc.

approximate time needed: 1.5-2 hrs round-trip,

depending on crowds

suggested items to bring: sunscreen, hat, water, camera

tip 1: for a more challenging workout,

park on the street around the neighborhood and

walk up to the trail head.

tip 2: it can get hot, stay hydrated.

hike early or later in the day.

what to do after: check out the KCC farmer's market or have lunch at diamond head grill

Diamond Head Road | Honolulu, HI | 96815