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More Than 1,000 Words: WCSF Talk Notes

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Yesterday at WordCamp San Francisco, I gave a quick lightning talk with some photo tips for WordPress. Here are links to things mentioned:

  • oEmbed allows for images, videos, and other media to be embedded into WordPress posts and pages without using an HTML embed code or a plugin. Here’s how to use it.
  • Plugin: Regenerate Thumbnails – generate new image thumbnails using the media sizes as configured in the Media settings. Useful after changing themes and needing existing images to be resized to match the new theme.
  • Plugin: Featured Image Reminder – warns you if you attempt to publish (or schedule) without choosing a featured image for a post.
  • Plugin: WP Retina 2X – easily generates and displays High DPI (Retina) images to visitors who have devices capable of displaying them.
  • Plugin: My Eyes are Up Here – previously featured on WP Photographers, this plugin allows for WordPress image thumbnails to be cropped to a particular location and also includes facial recognition for easy portrait thumbnails.

Thanks to all who attended my talk in person, and I’ll embed the video once it’s online.

Make the Most of a WordCamp: Tips for Success

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Want to make the most of your upcoming WordCamp experience?

WordCamps are local, volunteer-run events designed to foster WordPress community in an educational setting for all levels of WordPress users. Having been to nearly 20 WordCamp events in various cities, here are some WordCamp tips on what to do (and what not to do) for getting the most from the event whether you’re a first-time attendee or a WordCamp veteran.

  • Do take a look at the event’s schedule to identify which sessions might be of interest. Figure out if there are “must see” presentations, as well as those that have you somewhat curious.
  • Don’t get super-married to your plan; feel free to go with the flow on the day of the event.
  • Do bring some business cards so that you have an easy way for others to follow up after a conversation.
  • Don’t dress up. WordCamps are casual events and while you’ll find some folks wearing business casual attire, you’ll also see lots of T-shirts, jeans, and shorts. If you wear a tie, you’re going to look really out of place (persons named Aaron Jorbin excepted).
  • Do feel free to approach the speakers, organizers, and sponsors. Everyone is at the event because they love WordPress and want to share. They all want to help you with WordPress. Yes, even that internet-famous speaker who gave the keynote talk. She’d love to chat with you!
  • Don’t worry. Be happy. As I mentioned above, everyone is there for a common, helpful purpose. If you have a question, ask. Don’t worry about missing a session, most of them are recorded and eventally shared on WordPress.tv so you can see something you missed.
  • Do go to the after party if there is one. It’s a great way to continue the day’s conversations, ask follow up questions, and meet more WordPress-y folks who you might have not seen during the main event.
  • Don’t eat alone. Lunch can be an excellent opportunity to meet someone new and compare notes about what you’ve both seen and learned so far at the event. More from Chris Lema.
  • Do capture a few photos while you’re at the event. Doesn’t matter if they’re from a smartphone, pocket camera, or a DSLR… wouldn’t you like to have a few images to share on social media or to use along with a blog post recapping the event?

Related: see my Ultimate Guide to Conference Tips & Hacks which isn’t just about WordCamps, but events and conferences in general.

Looking for more WordCamp-specific planning advice? See a couple interesting articles from Carrie Dils or John Hawkins…

Helen Hou-Sandi speaking at WordCamp SF