Sorry, You Can’t Be An Influencer

I don’t mean to crush your dreams.

It’s not that I have anything against influencers or am slighting their talents. The problem that I have is that people are attracted to their job because it seems glamorous.

You mean I can take beautiful, curated photos and companies will pay me thousands of dollars? You mean I can work whenever and however I want, and show off my creative side? Where’s the dotted line that you want me to sign?

Let’s dissect the role of an influencer on Instagram. What’s their actual job?

• Find the perfect location/backdrop for the photo (that sometimes entails traveling if that means the advertisement will make more sense)
• Rent or purchase the right equipment
• Purchase clothes and/or accessories that aligns with the theme of the photo
• Write excellent copy that summarizes the features of the product, while maintaining authentic to their readers.
• Edit the shit out of the photo in post-production to make sure it looks flawless
• Negotiate pricing and terms with PR companies

Out of all the influencers on Instagram, I only follow one. Although I recognize that he gets paid to create phenomenal advertisements, I don’t mind seeing his content because…