CorsairMan Posted May 9, 2018 Share Posted May 9, 2018 I've been thinking about it for a while. I think this is not only the best opportunity for me to go - but a great opportunity to do and see a lot of things while I am there. I have been to Phoenix a few times but never in the summer. I am really looking forward to it. Any tips for a first time show-goer? Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Spruemeister Posted May 9, 2018 Share Posted May 9, 2018 Comfortable shoes. Lists. Cash. Other than that, here's a couple of thoughts. Beyond the models, the people you will meet are one of the best things about Nationals. The effort you make to talk to people, introduce yourself, ask questions and just generally connect will be what you remember in the years to come. The models will be amazing. That's a given. While you are trying like crazy to photograph every angle of the ones that interest you, put the phone or camera down and just take time to look. Take in everything about a model with your eyes and not a photo. It will help your own building, your memory of what's in front of you, and the experience of seeing something so amazing. Better than any picture ever will. There is no substitute for first person 3D. You'll get it. Cash. Rick L. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
John Tapsell Posted May 9, 2018 Share Posted May 9, 2018 9 hours ago, Spruemeister said: Comfortable shoes. Lists. Cash. Other than that, here's a couple of thoughts. Beyond the models, the people you will meet are one of the best things about Nationals. The effort you make to talk to people, introduce yourself, ask questions and just generally connect will be what you remember in the years to come. The models will be amazing. That's a given. While you are trying like crazy to photograph every angle of the ones that interest you, put the phone or camera down and just take time to look. Take in everything about a model with your eyes and not a photo. It will help your own building, your memory of what's in front of you, and the experience of seeing something so amazing. Better than any picture ever will. There is no substitute for first person 3D. You'll get it. Cash. Rick L. What he said... Any show is about so much much more than just viewing models on the tables. The people, the community, the vibe, the experience. A couple of my own thoughts - no matter how hard you try, you will never see everything. You can guarantee that you'll see photos after the show of models you completely missed. Take the time to kick back occasionally and just absorb the vibe of the show. Don't be intimidated by the quality of the models in the contest. By definition, the National Contest attracts the best that a modeller can build, not what the general standard of the hobby might be. Contest quality models are something to aspire to, not something that should define the benchmark for your own standards. Modelling is fun - never lose sight of that fundamental truth. Regards, John Quote Link to post Share on other sites
okthree Posted May 9, 2018 Share Posted May 9, 2018 (edited) Don’t plan on spending too much time outside. Phoenix in August is hot. Especially for those of us who reside in the Northern climes. Edited May 9, 2018 by okthree Quote Link to post Share on other sites
K2Pete Posted May 9, 2018 Share Posted May 9, 2018 I went to the 2009 NATS in Columbus and ... WOW! But I echo what the other posters have said. It was terrific to meet the guys I just knew online and I've kept up the camaraderie. Plus I won three 3rd places!! There were over 2500 models on the tables and it ... was ... overwhelming! Ask the modellers how they did something ... I did and was not ever disappointed with their attitude. They answered all my questions pleasantly and I've kept all those tips in mind. Attend some seminars and by all means attend the banquet ... the food, well ... nothing special, but the 3 hour presentations were a hoot! You'll never forget the experience! Pete (near Niagara Falls) Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Scott Smith Posted May 9, 2018 Share Posted May 9, 2018 I went to the one in Columbia a couple years back. I regret not bringing more cash. I only had enough to get in the door and pick up a couple items from Eduard. They offer deep show discounts. BRING CASH! MORE THAN YOU EXPECT TO NEED! I was lucky enough to find a couple of dealers/vendors that took either CC or PayPal. I simply PP'd them the funds and showed them my phone where it was sent. I only met a couple of the guys I know from online. It was a great experience. If you are flying in, you might want to have some sort of shipping home to yourself arranged or look into it. Never know what kind of big kits you might luck on to. Quote Link to post Share on other sites
jefropas Posted May 14, 2018 Share Posted May 14, 2018 Last Phoenix Nats was 122 degrees in the day, and 110 at night. Think of lots of cold drinks and deodorant...😂 Jeff Quote Link to post Share on other sites
Johnopfor Posted May 15, 2018 Share Posted May 15, 2018 On 5/8/2018 at 10:14 PM, Spruemeister said: Comfortable shoes. Lists. Cash. Rick L. A good camera phone or camera with plenty of sim cards and batteries..... Quote Link to post Share on other sites
CorsairMan Posted October 27, 2018 Author Share Posted October 27, 2018 It was an excellent experience and I'd go again. I have a writeup with show pictures at ModelAirplaneMaker.com Quote Link to post Share on other sites
P-38 guy Posted October 27, 2018 Share Posted October 27, 2018 Don’t get distracted by all the hot women trying to pick up modelers. Bring cash/list and have fun. Mike Quote Link to post Share on other sites
CorsairMan Posted October 27, 2018 Author Share Posted October 27, 2018 10 minutes ago, P-38 guy said: Don’t get distracted by all the hot women trying to pick up modelers. Yes - that was a huge problem! Haha Quote Link to post Share on other sites
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