Grab a snappy friend

“Stop tolerating cynicism and doubt from your so-called friends. Tell them straight up:

This is the new me. I am a creator on a mission. I will fall down and make mistakes along my path, but I’m going to get back up again and again and again until I’ve made my vision a reality. And when I’m done doing that, I’ll be on to the next one. I have room in my life for supporters and cheerleaders and believers. If you can play that role, great, grab your pom-poms. Wet blankets can go back into the drawer and grow mildew.”

If they don’t get the picture, make new friends.”

• Chase Jarvis, Creative Calling

I’ve got a confession to make.

I take crappy photos.

I’d easily throw myself in the bottom 10th percentile. Possibly even lower.

Yet good photography is one of the driving forces of the web.

A striking image can make all the difference as to whether someone wants to click and learn more about what you’re offering, or simply disappear into another comedian video rabbit hole never to be seen again.

You need good photos.

At worst a professional headshot showing who you are and that you’re not a ghost.

Even better a library of ever-changing shots that continually refresh your web presence and help you look amazing.

If you’re no good with taking photos either there is hope.

One of the benefits of smart phone technology and Instagram is that there are literal armies of your friends who can take a healthy number of snaps for you.

Some key things to consider:

• Great light
• Smiles, and
• Ensuring you’re telling a story with each shot it might be highlighting a product being used, someone benefiting from you showing them what to do, or a zoomed in shot of your run-sheet as a dance instructor

Also explain to your friend that volume is key here, you’re going to want more than they’re used to taking to play with. This is so you can include them in various social posts, offers, and anything else you market with and keep the variety high (before you need to tap another friend).

It’s good practice to reward your friend with a dinner, chocolates, bottle of wine whatever your friend likes.

When I did this with my friend Scootie we went out for KFC.

Whatever it takes to get those snaps right?