I want to be real. This post is something I’ve been wanting to do for a few weeks now, because a series of reoccurring events have been pushing me to address it. I’ve been reminded of some really important qualities that I find lacking in “creative individuals” nowadays.
Authenticity
Originality
Honesty
Ownership
@shoes_and_sashimi is not groundbreaking. At all. I’m not the first one to post a photo of a moody portrait or a shot of latte art. I don’t have the biggest following, but you don’t see me buying spam or cheating my numbers. What I post is 100 percent mine. What starts from something in my head inevitably ends up into jpeg. My ideas are executed either by my hand alone and professional shooters Rachel Radcliffe or Julia O. When they aren’t shooting, @Twelfthknight helps fill that gap, and I give him a lot of credit.
Editing is also 100% mine, unless it’s agreed upon by Rachel or Julia, since they are very different shooters. I respect both of them and their work, that’s what a solid working relationship is based upon. Respect. Unfortunately, I can’t say the same for others.
If there is anything that was engrained in our heads (and hands) in design school, it is protect yourself and your work. Protect your ideas. If you’re a creative, entrepreneur, a photographer, whatever you are: Constantly push yourself. Don’t get too comfortable.
I am very transparent on Instagram and SF is a tiny city. The shoes I wear and products I post are all public. The brands I work with, those too are public knowledge. I have had “creators” in the same city whom I have spent some time with go after the same exact products…in the same color…poach the same brands and post shot for shot, pose for pose…. It feels like a big F U. And yea, how could you not take it personally?
It’s a big space. There are plenty of opportunities out there, people aren’t willing to work for it. In order to be successful in anything, you need to be original. Say thank you to those who have helped you (when they didn’t have to) and have some ounce of humility. Authenticity is so important and there is a lack of it.
This rainy day at Home Cafe in SF, I shot with a newly full time photographer named Juila O. She’s quick and she’s hungry. Julia has a beautiful eye for lighting. Home Cafe is the new cool kid on the block, slinging really great coffee concoctions. Have you had a Birthday Cake ombre latte before? I think not. Or a Cookie Monster Latte full of crumbled cookies? I like that they’re different, I like that they’re unique.
I hope you all can find this post somewhat interesting or relatable. If you do or if you don’t, please comment because I’d love to hear your thoughts. And if you’re in the creative field like me, or you’re self employed it’s a good reminder to you all: Be you and only you. Why would you want to be a second string version of someone else?
All photos shot by Julia O Photography
Home Cafe, San Francisco
wow i love this post! so authentic and these pictures are to die for! come check out my blog http://www.poshandspicy.com xx toby
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I hear you! Seeing someone copying your work is just utterly disrespecting and rude! But you know you’re work and in the end you can be proud of what you’re doing!
XoXo,
Tamara – LoveofMode.com
Winter Skincare Routine Video
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I loved reading your post…so real..I totally agree with your thoughts. Authenticity is very rare these days..but you keep up the good work and let success follow!
cheers!
http://www.floridmaven.com/2017/01/8-travel-beauty-essentials-to-carry.html
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Loved this post babe and can totally relate. It’s hard not to take it personally when it seems like someone is copying your authentic self… but that has to mean you’re doing something right. Keep on being you – real, raw, authentic – and good things will come. Love following your blog and growth and will continue to do so!
xx, Amy
http://www.theluxilook.com
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Thanks Amy, it’s a weird but fine line right? Thanks for always keeping it real, it doesn’t go unnoticed :)
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Loving the very real and raw vibes you’ve shared here babe. I definitely agree that it is very important to be real and authentic. For me though, if I find people posting similar photos or using similar poses, visiting similar places, I feel like I’ve maybe inspired them to do those things and I find that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Because my blog is public and people can take what they like from it, It doesn’t really bother me if they do want to replicate what I’m doing. In fact, I’m sharing a post today called 10 photo worthy places to visit in LA so they may replicated what I’ve shared or posted.
I love the photos and how you’ve set this whole post up- I can tell you are a very authentic and creative person. Keep up the good work!
xoxo Rina
http://www.andshedressed.com
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Love this look! That sweater is so cozy xx, Erin – http://www.stylebythepeople.com
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Thank you Erin :)
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