Posts Tagged: craft fair application

instagram vs. “regular” images

For those readers in the craft fair circuit, most of you are probably preparing your applications to the holiday shows. I wrote a post last year regarding craft fair applications for our session at the Summit of Awesome in Baltimore – part 1 and part 2, but I wanted to touch base on a topic that has been rattling through my mind for awhile… Instagram pictures vs. “Regular” pictures.

Instagram is an app where you can choose filtered effects to enhance the photos you take on your mobile devices. I love instagram and use it almost on a daily basis (you can follow me here). However, with the popularity of these apps, I started noticing a few craft fair applications and Etsy shops that started using their own photos that have been filtered.

In my opinion, instagram and other filtered images (even those ones that have been enhanced) do not always truly represent your product.  The app’s goal is to make your “regular” pictures prettier and you have to be careful as this may led to some people accusing you of misrepresenting your product especially for an online shop.

What are your thoughts? Would love to hear your opinion?

summit of awesome 2011

Last summer, Miranda, Robert and I decided to drive down to Portland and attend the Summit of Awesome. We had a few friends that would be speaking at the event plus Miranda had never been to Portland and really, Rob and I didn’t need an excuse to drive down there, so tickets were bought and suitcases were packed. I must admit that I’m not the biggest fan of conferences. I think I struggle with the idea of sitting still and having to listen for long periods of time, but I was wrong. This event changed everything. I had found my people!

Organized by Hello Craft, a non-profit association dedicated to the advancement of independent crafters and the handmade movement. They will be hosting their third annual Summit of Awesome from October 20-22, 2011, in Baltimore, MD and we are pleased to announce that we, along with Rachel Bone from Red Prairie Press, will be presenting two sessions at the event:

  1. Craft Fair Organizing
  2. Craft Fair Application Critique

The Summit of Awesome will bring together over 200 creative types from across the country – from the dabbler to the pro – to learn about the indie craft world, how to jump start their business, and sell their wares in this recovering economy. This 3-day event will include business seminars, craft education, and hands-on workshops. You can see a full line of speakers here including keynote Jay McCarroll, season 1 winner of Project Runway! Register for your tickets here!