Otakon 2009 pre-con – Stronger, Better, Faster, Harder.

Two months ago, I didn’t even think I would be making this post. In November of 2008, I didn’t even think I could AFFORD this. Once again, I fight against the odds and come out on top. Thanks to a decent job and some chess moves in getting time off, I am able to make it to Otakon 2009. This will be my 5th consecutive Otakon and me and my friends will raise the roof.

First off, I managed to book the brand-spanking new Baltimore Hilton. (It actually opened in 2008, but a week later after Otakon took place!) This hotel has it’s very own entrance to the Baltimore convention center and even some of the events will be held there. This is probably considered the “Hotel that Otakon built”, since the convention’s future was contingent on it’s existence in Baltimore (So the rumors say). The max capacity for this event is reaching it’s breaking point. One year, they had to limit attendees. Now, after number crunching, the con staff are able to fit in more bodies. The additon of the nearby hotel not only gives the con more breathing room, but more hotel rooms as well.

Just as in previous years, I am taking pictures. The Nikon D50 has been retired in favor of a more pro-sumer D90. I’m still trying to get the hang of it and even bought a book to go over the fine details. I may stick to some functions I know instead just to get up to speed. Due to work, I don’t really have a lot of time to do “dress rehearsals”. Perhaps I might squeeze in a visit to NYC for some nighttime shots in Times Square.

Right now, I’m still glossing over the schedule. I see that there is a cosplay photography panel, but it’s way early on Friday. Hope I can make it. I’m definitely attending the Evangelion 1.0 movie and looking forward to see stand-up otaku comedian UncleYo. Moar posts on the way.