Phil Scroggs has been Gigwalking in the Seattle area and quickly developed a reputation with our client as the “Leonardo da Vinci” of business panoramas.  It turns out the artful nature of his Gigs comes naturally; Phil is an accomplished illustrator and professional multimedia designer.  

Why did you start Gigwalking and what does it mean to you?

I started Gigwalking just to try out an interesting new app that I had read about. I kept Gigwalking because it was a great way to earn extra money while getting some exercise and exploring parts of Seattle that I don’t usually get to see. 

Besides combing the streets for Gigs, what else do you do? 

By day, I’m a multimedia designer for a healthcare company. I design print materials, presentations, videos and web graphics. When not doing that, I’m usually out shooting photos. The iPhone is just one of several cameras I use. I also make/show/sell acrylic paintings, illustrations and linocut prints as “Phillustrations.” 

How has Gigwalk made a difference for you? 

The main benefit is that my Gigwalk earnings let me say “yes” to things more often. I used to be more cautious when it came to small expenses like stopping for coffee on my way to work or going out to dinner. Now, I don’t think twice about it. With the money I’ve made doing this, I purchased the new iPhone and some accessories that I can use both on and off the job. 

What are your two best tips for new Gigwalkers?

#1 Read the FAQ in Gigwalk Talk and ask questions when you need help.   

#2 Plan your day before getting started. Pick a spot with lots of clustered gigs. If you’re shooting a lot of restaurant gigs, catch them right when they open so there will be fewer customers in your way. If you know of several closed businesses on your map, save those for when the open restaurants will be most crowded.

What was your best Gigwalking experience so far?  

One restaurant owner bought me a coffee of my choice before I got started. Another nice couple of owners boxed up some Chinese food for me to take, insisting that I try it even after I had declined the offer. 

Besides Gigwalk, what is your favorite iPhone Application?

 I love Instagram. It’s fun to shoot with and share your images.

I also like checking out the photo feed to see what other people are posting. 

Which current event would you be discussing at the Gigwalk Watercooler?

I’d probably be talking about the new iPhone and the future of Apple without Steve Jobs. 

What would be your theme song while Gigwalking? Why this song?

I’m going to pick something corny like “Secret Agent Man” by Johnny Rivers.  Although I usually get the business owner’s permission first, I still try to move fast and be as invisible as possible while I’m working. If I can blend into the background during my gigs, I have a better chance of staying out of the way, getting great photos and moving on to the next gig quickly! 

Besides your phone, what accessories do you pack in your bag for the job? 
(Asked by  Fernando Navales last week’s Featured Gigwalker): 

I pack sunscreen, headphones, and my charging cable - in case I stop for lunch somewhere that I can plug in. I also have a Mophie Juice Pack for recharging on the go.

What question do you want to ask the next featured Gigwalker?

Have you ever encountered another Gigwalker in the wild?

I have. Michael S. was trying to work the same restaurant I had just started and couldn’t figure out why the pin had disappeared on him. Great guy - we had a nice conversation about doing Gigs around Seattle.