Tracy & Matt's Blog is an independent technology blog that started its affair with silicon in 2006. Boasting an experienced team and a passion for anything tech-related, Matt Davis tells us how that experience gives his blog a real-world advantage, as well as his fondness for freeing gadgets from their boxes….

Tell us about your blog, how did you get started? Why did you choose your subject?

I have worked in IT for almost 20 years and built a good relationship with many hardware and software manufacturers. I have a passion for all kinds of technology and having spent time working for a number of high-profile companies as a beta tester, I decided that I would like to write about some of the technology that interested me and to share this with others. I started writing about Windows Mobile for another site and then in 2005 created my own blog so that I could write about much more diverse subjects.

How do you source content for your blog?

Thanks to a close relationship with several manufacturers, we very often have the chance to get our hands on hardware well before it gets released. Other times we simply reach out to one of the PR agencies that we work with and ask for loan equipment. We receive a lot of press releases and are invited to some hands-on style events. I am also part of several partner programmes with a few manufacturers and they provide me with exclusive access to content.

Do you have a favourite post or one that best sums up your blog?

Choosing just one post is difficult. There is a standout unboxing video where Nokia invited me to meet with them but didn’t warn me what for. As I result I was presented with a HUGE box and asked to get on and do an unboxing video live, in front of an audience and with no preparation. I think it worked out okay. My Google Nexus One review is possibly one of my favourite review pieces.

You write reviews?

We have written hundreds of reviews and have a whole category dedicated to them. They are a very popular part of our site.

How did you build a following for your blog?

By writing a lot of content, getting our SEO right and interacting with our followers on Twitter and Facebook, etc. Our videos are popular on YouTube (almost 40 million views) and we endeavour to respond to all comments we receive.

Are you a PR friendly blog? Do you accept contributions and content for your blog?

We are and we do. We always aim to write our own content around a press release as well as including the original copy.

How best do you like to be approached by PRs?

Happy to receive initial contact my email.

What’s on your Christmas list?

It’s time to replace the camera I use for unboxing videos so that’s top of the list along with a new Chromebook!

Matt can be found tweeting @tracyandmatt.