I first learned about the concept of content creation the summer before my sophomore year of college. Of course, I knew what content creation was but I didn’t realize that anybody could just create content and become a “content creator”. To become a content creator, I thought you had to have a lot of followers, own all sorts of technological gadgets, and perhaps, and already have money to receive PR, create content, and land partnerships. However, that summer, I learned that you really don’t. You just need some sort of camera, like the one on your phone, and the willingness to begin creating. Thus, after seeing that post come up on my FYP about creating content as a “microinfluencer”, with products I already used at home, I decided to give it a try.
I made videos of me making breakfast, using my favorite brand of pancake mix. I recorded my skincare routine at the time, with my favorite cleanser and facial serums. I even did some “casual outfit inspo” type of posts. When I first began, my goal was to document parts of my life to look back on, as well as to receive some sort of PR. Little did I know I would receive more than PR packages through content creation.
On the scale of introvert to extrovert, I am definitely more on the introverted side. I feel like I suck at maintaining conversation or small talk, and I love having moments to myself. If you truly know me, then you also know that I am self conscious about my self-image. I wouldn’t say I hated myself and what I looked like but I definitely wasn’t comfortable in my own skin. Honestly the start of content creation for me was awkward and super uncomfortable. I mean, recording myself in public? Or posing for a picture while people drove by? Ah, there were so many times where I remember scrapping an idea for another day or taking pictures and hating every single one of them. But what no one really tells you is just how supportive other content creators are. I have so many mutuals from the beginning of my journey who would comment on my posts, DM me thoughtful messages, and share opportunities for landing both gifted and paid partnerships. The little circle of friends that I made through content creation is what kept me going. I was so inspired by them.
If they could film in public and land a partnership with a restaurant, then I could too! It truly helped me adopt a “who cares what they think” mentality, that helped me continue through the awkward stages of filming and posting, which of course led me to paid opportunities. This further validated my abilities to be a content creator. I wanted to take videos and edit them, inspire people the way others inspired me, and continue growing as a person.
Through content creation, yes, I received PR packages and even secured brand partnerships, but I learned more about the world of content creation, developed my professional skills, and built confidence in myself and my ability. I also made friends in different places and learned about their interests and lifestyle. To me, even with the stressors that come with content creation, becoming a “microinfluencer” and embracing who I am on social media has been such a worthwhile endeavor. If you ever want to know more about my experiences, feel free to reach out to me! Lol, just DM me on Instagram @SerenaLozandi.