The outbreak of the corona virus is causing concern around the world, affecting businesses of all sizes – from multinational corporations to local corner shops. The impact on the global stock markets and, above all, on everyday life has been felt by everyone. Present circumstances are forcing people to adapt as best as possible – but for many that is easier said than done.
Within the broad spectrum of the creative community some tasks are more suitable for remote work than others. However, creative professionals involved in any kind of production are facing numerous problems. In most countries around the world, film studios have closed, art, music and theatre stages have cancelled their shows and photographers are threatened by even smaller budgets and cancelled events. Freelancers may be used to seasonal fluctuations or the occasional cancellation of events, but the uncertainty about the extent and duration of this outbreak has resulted in frustration, anger and anxiety.
The future is now !
The good news? Creatives have always had to be flexible. While full-time employees may enjoy greater job security, freelancers are often better versed in adapting to and managing in times of uncertainty.
Moreover, not all sectors of the creative industries have been equally affected by the crisis. One social media app in particular is thriving thanks to corona – TikTok. And it is perfectly suited for self-marketing by photographers. In the beginning, the platform was often seen merely as a passing fad, another app among Instagram’s many competitors.
For those not in the know: TikTok is essentially a platform for small video productions where creators edit their videos to the max to create truly mesmerizing content. Accordingly, TikTok videos can be uniquely integrated to supplement the traditional work of photographers and creative professionals.
Producing a TikTok video is similar to creating an Instagram Story, but with more heart. In recent years, Instagram users have had many questions about Instagram’s ever-changing algorithms, which change the way content is displayed in the app. Since TikTok is a relatively new app, it is not (yet) saturated with advertising or sponsored posts. A perfect time to show off your own photographic work.
How to stay productive and positive while at home
To mitigate the effects of the recession, investing in your own small “business” can help you get ready now while we wait for the economy to recover.
– Update your stock portfolios & websites
– Refine your craft – continue to take pictures & try new techniques
– Find a community you trust and exchange ideas
– Improve the ranking of your website through SEO
– Refresh your current skills and knowledge through online courses
– Earn money from home – e.g. by post licensing stolen images
No matter how everyone feels about COVID-19, the impact on the industry cannot be ignored. However, the best thing to do in this situation is to remain calm and use the time to prepare for the time after.
