Haha! How can you really add value as a camera store employee without thoroughly researching and testing the various products and services? I don't want to walk into a store and just have someone read the back of the box, I want to talk to someone who hid the product in their jacket and ran out like the place was on fire.
I've done a few shoots with friends over the years, and it really is so much harder. I'm usually pretty good at generally making people feel comfortable, but as soon as that camera rises up people just stiffen... or go into their smiley pose.
AND that's why we always have champagne in the fridge! (and y'know for all the other reasons).
HA! Yes that was always my argument! Let us take the gear home! Most of the manufacturers we actually pretty generous with demo models etc for us to take and try, especially when we were doing a YouTube channel about gear. Good times!
AH YES the ol' liquid courage! I agree, that was a huge help. Although there was a delicate balance between loosening them up and causing droopy eyes hahahaha