Mar
Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous
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I used to want to be a rockstar. I’ll settle for being a microcelebrity in the photo industry. Still get the attention, the swag and the notoriety without the paparazzi and the booze-fueled tours. Wait, on second thought… just kidding.
“Microcelebrity is the phenomenon of being extremely well known not to millions but to a small group — a thousand people, or maybe only a few dozen. As DIY media reach ever deeper into our lives, it’s happening to more and more of us. Got a Facebook account? A whackload of pictures on Flickr? Odds are there are complete strangers who know about you — and maybe even talk about you.” By Clive Thompson on The Age of Microcelebrity
I love having a Twitter and Facebook and getting to know our clients and potential new clients through them – what I didn’t realize I was doing was building my own little fan club. A small support group of interested strangers who encourage and support me and offer amazing advice. While no where near the fame of Jasmine Star or Jessica Claire – I appreciate my small amount of microcelebrity.
Microcelebrity can be a powerful thing – as the two aforementioned women have shown. They have used their adorable personalities and photographic talent to boost their businesses and create their personal brands. I haven’t quite found the niche for how to use my microcelebrity yet – but I know that someday it will play into marketing in a way I haven’t yet thought of.
How are you building and using your microcelebrity? Are you using it as the powerful marketing tool that it is?
“Make no mistake about it, when it comes to social media, authenticity and personal branding matter. I’m also a big believer in the concept of microcelebrity. And when we’re more concerned about being on the social media superhighway than we are about being authentic to the people in our virtual community, people will notice.” FC Expert Blogger Shawn Graham on Social Media & Authenticity
Image of Katie above courtesy of AltF.com 2008
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2 Responses to “Lifestyles of the Rich & Famous”
I wonder if we could trade in micro-celebrity for plain ol’ leadership.
When I think of Jasmine or Jessica, that’s what strikes me most about what they do for our industry. Their longevity as influencers won’t be about being adorable and talented. Those things are true but any flavor of the week can pull that off.
The thing they do that lasts is they lead.
Being known I think is overrated. What you’re known for is the litmus test.
Take Katie for example.
You’re growing in being known for remarkable customer service. Remarkable! That’s a foundation worth standing on. I hope you become more known for it. That’s something everyone will appreciate regardless of household-name-ness.
Good point, Dane! I think you’re right – it really is all about leadership. I remember talking to Jasmine Star about her latest workshop and thinking “It’s not about her images – because so many people have amazing images – it’s about her willingness and ability to share with others her passion.” I often make the same mental note when watching your AskDane.com videos – you are fun and entertaining to watch – but the important thing is you steer my mind in a positive direction – you’re motivating, educational and so good at sharing your knowledge with others.
One of the things I’m most grateful for about the particular industry I work in ( surrounded by professional photographers) is that amongst all of you, there is a general feeling of support. People are quick to share locations, tips, new product ideas, etc… and the sticklers who refuse to share their knowledge – I see them being left behind more and more as the industry moves forward.