There is a pervasive myth within the photography community: the correlation between Instagram followers and financial success. This topic is especially pertinent for emerging photographers who may fall into the trap of equating social media popularity with career achievement, overlooking the multifaceted nature of building a sustainable photography business. This fantastic and important video tackles the topic.
Coming to you from Prince Meyson, this insightful video challenges the widespread belief that a large Instagram following is indicative of a photographer's financial well-being. Meyson shares his personal experiences and observations, pointing out that many photographers with significant online presences are not necessarily the ones landing lucrative commercial projects. He emphasizes that some of the most financially successful photographers often have minimal social media activity, suggesting that the key to substantial earnings lies beyond the realm of likes and follows. This perspective is crucial for photographers starting out in the professional realm, urging them to consider a broader strategy for their careers that goes beyond digital popularity.
Meyson further elaborates on the importance of diversifying income streams and not relying solely on social media metrics as a measure of success. He provides examples of how photographers can monetize their audience through selling products like retouching actions and presets, while also highlighting the importance of pursuing commercial gigs that may not always come from online visibility. This advice is invaluable for anyone looking to bridge the gap between online influence and tangible financial success. Meyson's candid discussion serves as a reminder that a successful photography career is built on more than just a digital following—it requires business acumen, networking, and a diversified approach to income. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Meyson.
The only place that myth is "pervasive" is on Instacrap and youbube. Actual paying clients don't care about your social media presence. They care about how you can improve their social media following.