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Whether we like it or not, marketing works. It works on us, it works on nerds, it works on everybody.
\\n\\nIn fact, the whole capitalist society and system we have is based on aspirational modes of thought.
\\n\\nFor example with cameras, the aspiration is that we will become more creative, make better images, and become more inspired.\\ufffc\\ufffc\\ufffc\\ufffc
\\n\\nWith cars, the aspiration is that we will live a happier life, a more sexy life, and a more adventurous life.\\ufffc
\\n\\nSo how should we apply this to photography?
\\n\\nThe first thought I have is that when it comes to marketing, it is an aspirational thing. To become more.
\\n\\nFor example, if you are a photography teacher, the emphasis should be on helping people become more inspired, more created, more motivated.
\\n\\nIf you\\u2019re a portrait photographer, wedding photographer commercial photographer, etc., then the focus is this; become more beautiful, look more professional in order to close more deals, gain more followers and likes, become the envy of your friends, etc.\\ufffc\\ufffc\\ufffc\\ufffc\\ufffc\\ufffc
\\n\\nPerhaps it is easier to just shop online, read the marketing copy, and if the marketing copy accords with your core values, just buy it. For example, I got these Lululemon license to train shorts, and I got drawn into it because the marketing copy said that it was abrasion resistant. In accordance with my value of wanting some shorts, that were insanely durable, which could maybe last me at least 10 years.
\\n\\nIf you\\u2019re a photographer, and photography is your passion, I assume that your end goal is to go out and make more photos. To become more inspired, to see more photo opportunities, and to shoot more photos that you are proud of.\\ufffc
\\n\\nAnd then if this is your actual goal, what you should be doing is traveling more, going on more embodied reality adventures, attending more workshops, attending classes, buying photography books.
\\n\\nOften the problem is that we feel unmotivated in our photography, and we mindlessly scroll through these camera equipment websites, gear review websites, and camera rumor websites, looking for that new perfect camera that will satisfy our every single desire.\\ufffc
\\n\\nI know personally speaking, the one camera one lens to have is the Ricoh GR 3IIIx. Why? Is the newest digital RICOH GR camera, and it could always fit in your front right pocket. Now you have no excuse to never shoot. Beyond this, I find all camera equipment superfluous.\\ufffc\\ufffc\\ufffc
\\n\\n\\ufffcI say don\\u2019t sell yourself short. Better to over emphasize and over exaggerate yourself, than make yourself too small.\\ufffc
\\n\\nSome thoughts:
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