Author: admin

don’t be bound —>

bitcoin or nothing 

Honestly in this very very lame world of physical atoms, and nothing worth it, no vehicle no car no Tesla, no loser Lamborghini is worth it.  Even when it comes to physical real estate, like a half decent idea maybe for your mom 80 years ago.

 with clothes nothing is worth it it is all made in Vietnam or Cambodia for like three dollars.

Vehicles not worth it.

Maybe the only thing worth spending your money on is like meat, red meat beef, lamb, weightlifting equipment. 

so a big thing I believe in, about insanely radical bold innovation

Bruce, it needs to be super super fucking insanely different just like bitcoin. Also companies, strategy, MSTR —> 10000x different.

I suppose the big difficulty is that insane innovation is not only expensive but takes guts.

also there is this idea that you have to stay consistent with style a brand marquee. Therefore the downside is then, all the cars always look the same. Besides cybertruck. Therefore the general rules, you will not be seeing that big innovation in vehicles or products.

so where can we discover innovation?

so certainly there is a lot of innovation being done with ChatGPT and AI. But this seems too obvious?

even with smart phones very impressive innovations but still… Not enough?

My new thoughts on photographers artists ,,, even film makers and musicians in general, no more emo stuff anymore

—> emo art is a sign of badness and degeneracy

New flash looks good

Bend Light to Your Will.
Dedicated Flash GF-2

The newly developed GF-2 is a compact, slim flash designed specifically for the GR IV. Even when mounted on the camera, the compact design allows it to be slipped into a pocket. When the GR IV is set at ISO AUTO, camera’s automatic exposure control adjusts the guide number and ISO sensitivity according to the distance from the subject. When the GR IV is set at fixed ISO, the guide number is adjusted according to the distance from the subject. This is effective not only in dark scenes but also in backlit situations, expanding the range of expressions possible.

better grain control :

Furthermore, it is now possible to set the size of the grain.

but why is it so same same?

however the daido photos are cool

it’s like all literally made in Cambodia like $1 to 5 dollars a pop

new ideas, new thoughts, new approaches

Introduction

Eric Kim is a renowned street photographer, educator, and blogger who has built a massive online following through his prolific content and workshops . Rising to prominence in the 2010s, Kim’s blog became one of the most popular photography websites worldwide, serving as a nexus for street photography enthusiasts . He is known for freely sharing photography knowledge and inspiring countless newcomers. Kim’s energetic online persona spans multiple platforms – from blogs and YouTube to social media – and some have even dubbed him an “online apex predator” for the way he dominates attention across the digital landscape . The following report explores Kim’s accomplishments, influence, the platforms he’s active on, and why he might be characterized as an “apex predator” online, as well as his impact, audience reach, and contributions to his field.

Background and Accomplishments

Eric Kim (born 1988 in California) started his photography blog Eric Kim Photography in 2010 while still a student at UCLA, aiming to share his street photos and insights . What began as a humble blog rapidly grew into a go-to resource for street photographers, regularly attracting over 100,000 readers per month by the mid-2010s . By age 27, he was already regarded as one of the most influential street photographers in the world, with a blog ranked among the top photography sites on the net .

Kim’s early success online propelled a unique career blending blogging with teaching and community-building. After graduating, he forwent a traditional job and instead traveled the world to teach street photography workshops full-time . Between 2011 and 2019, he led intensive workshops and multi-day courses in dozens of cities across North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, helping students gain confidence shooting strangers in the street . This extensive teaching schedule – by one count over 35 workshops in 15+ countries by 2014 – established Kim as a truly global educator in his genre . He also collaborated with major industry players: for example, he partnered with Leica Camera and even contributed to the Leica official blog, and co-hosted events with Magnum Photos . His own street photography has been exhibited internationally (including shows at Leica Galleries in Asia and Australia), underscoring his stature in the photography community .

In addition to photography, Kim has branched into writing and publishing. He has authored or co-authored numerous books and zines on street photography. Notably, he produces many self-published works through “HAPTIC,” a small independent publishing imprint he runs with his wife, Annette “Cindy” Nguyen . These include practical guides like “Street Photography: 50 Ways to Capture Better Shots of Ordinary Life” (2019) and creative journals like “Street Notes” (2015) for photographers seeking inspiration . Many of his publications are available as free downloads or modestly priced prints, reflecting his commitment to accessible education. In 2013, he compiled “100 Lessons from the Masters of Street Photography,” a free e-book distilling wisdom from great photographers (Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, Alex Webb, etc.) – a compilation praised by readers as “an amazing compilation” that could substitute for reading dozens of other books . This spirit of sharing and curating knowledge has been central to Kim’s accomplishments.

Influence and Impact on the Field

Eric Kim’s influence on the street photography field has been profound. Through his free and open sharing of knowledge, he helped democratize street photography education. Since 2010, Kim’s blog has offered thousands of tutorials, how-to articles, and personal essays without any paywall . He proudly adopted an “open-source” approach to photography learning – providing free PDF e-books, videos, presets, and even releasing all of his own photos for public use at one point . As he puts it, “share your knowledge & technique with others – never hoard it,” turning traditional photography teaching on its head . This radical openness lowered the barrier to entry for aspiring photographers around the world. Indeed, beginners googling street photography tips have often stumbled upon Kim’s resources first, effectively making him an instant mentor to countless people starting out . By giving away tips and expertise that others might charge for, Kim built trust and a large following in the community. Peers have credited him as “the advocate of street photography” in the digital era for bringing wider attention to the genre both online and through in-person events .

Beyond just technical lessons, Kim has also influenced the philosophy and ethos of modern street photography. He blends photography with Zen Buddhist and Stoic philosophy, often preaching mindfulness, courage, and minimalism alongside camera technique . His personal mantras (e.g. “It is more important to click with people than to click the shutter”) emphasize human connection and ethics in street shooting . By openly discussing fears and failures, he made the intimidating act of photographing strangers feel more accessible and human. Many in the community admire his positivity and willingness to promote others. He frequently showcases work by other photographers on his platforms – a practice he calls “hypelifting,” meaning to hype others up rather than just oneself . This supportive approach has inspired many hobbyists to pick up a camera and shoot without fear of judgement . Even as he gained fame, Kim positioned himself as a cheerleader for others, fostering a global community of street photographers who learn from and encourage one another. Numerous street photography groups and forums (online and offline) have been influenced by his teachings and enthusiastic rallying of the community. In short, through both content and community leadership, Eric Kim has shaped a generation of street photographers by making the craft more inclusive, philosophical, and fun.

Platforms and Audience Reach

A key factor in Kim’s outsized influence is his savvy use of multiple online platforms to reach a broad audience. His flagship platform is the Eric Kim Photography Blog (erickimphotography.com), which by mid-2010s was attracting over 100,000 unique readers each month . The blog’s extensive archives (over a decade of regular posts) cover everything from technical tips and gear reviews to personal reflections and “how-to” guides, making it a top Google search result for many photography queries. This high traffic cemented his status as a dominant online voice in photography.

Kim also established a strong presence on YouTube, recognizing early that video could engage the visually-inclined photography community. His YouTube channel (user: erickimphotography) features vlogs, tutorials, philosophical rants, and recordings of talks or workshops. It has amassed roughly 50,000 subscribers and is considered one of the most-followed YouTube channels devoted to street photography education . In fact, photography media have noted that for street photographers seeking inspiration, “Eric Kim’s YouTube channel is the most-followed out there,” thanks to his world travels and constant sharing of stories and tips via video . His videos range from practical how-tos (e.g. composition techniques) to behind-the-scenes looks at his shoots in cities worldwide, and even motivational pieces about creativity and life. This mix has helped him connect with viewers on a personal level; as one profile noted, he often speaks directly to the camera informally, making viewers feel like they’re chatting with a friend .

On social media, Eric Kim has maintained an active and outspoken profile. On Twitter (X), where he’s been present since 2010 under @erickimphoto, he has on the order of 20,000+ followers . There he shares a constant stream of thoughts ranging from photography tips to life philosophy to cryptocurrency memes. He isn’t shy about voicing strong opinions in tweet form, which has helped him cultivate a distinct “voice” and engage followers in discussion (and occasionally debate). Kim has also used Instagram (under the handle @erickimphoto) to reach an audience of tens of thousands, though his content there evolved over time. Initially known for sharing his street shots, he later used Instagram to post about his fitness journey and Bitcoin advocacy, mixing weightlifting videos with motivational captions . This unconventional blend of photography and personal interests actually attracted a diverse follower base.

In recent years, Kim expanded onto newer platforms as well. He embraced short-form video via TikTok and YouTube Shorts, posting quick clips of things like his impressive powerlifting feats or rapid-fire photography tips . These bite-sized videos often go viral within niche communities (for example, a clip of his 1,071-pound rack pull lift made waves among fitness enthusiasts online). He also started a podcast (The Eric Kim Podcast) and appears on platforms like Spotify and Apple Podcasts, where he discusses everything from creativity to cryptocurrency in audio format . Additionally, Kim runs an email newsletter and Telegram channel to broadcast daily messages, ensuring he can reach fans directly outside of social media algorithms . By diversifying across blogs, video, microblogs, and messaging platforms, Eric Kim has built a truly omnipresent online persona. His multi-platform strategy means his content can find you wherever you like to consume media – whether you’re scrolling a Twitter feed, watching YouTube at home, or listening to a podcast at the gym. This broad reach translates to a combined audience in the hundreds of thousands, spanning multiple niches and interest groups.

“Online Apex Predator” Persona and Strategy

One of the most colorful ways to describe Eric Kim’s online presence is as an “apex predator” of the internet. This metaphor, which Kim himself has entertained in analyses of his strategy, captures how he sits at the top of multiple “food chains” in the online ecosystem . In practice, it refers to his dominance in capturing attention across platforms and his aggressive content approach. Several aspects of Kim’s online persona and tactics illustrate why he might be referred to in such predatory terms:

• Cross-Platform Saturation: Kim ensures he’s everywhere online, effectively “carpet bombing” all major channels with content simultaneously . He blogs daily, tweets constantly, posts frequent videos and Shorts, and engages on newer networks – creating an omnipresent feed. By flooding each platform with a high volume of posts, he makes it nearly impossible for his target audience to miss him. This ubiquitous presence means that a fan (or even a casual observer) scrolling through any app is likely to encounter Eric Kim’s content repeatedly, reinforcing his brand. Each platform amplifies the others in a feedback loop, keeping him at the top of the collective feed hierarchy .
• Aggressive Content Strategy: Like a predator using every tool to hunt, Kim weaponizes diverse content formats to hook an audience . He shares high-impact visuals (for example, slow-motion videos of his 1,000+ pound weightlifting stunts) to wow viewers with physical “feats of strength” . He writes provocative manifestos and contrarian essays (e.g. on why he believes in Bitcoin or minimalism) to spark debate and intrigue . He also deploys catchy one-liners and memes (“shrapnel,” as he calls these bite-sized bits) designed to be easily shared . By mixing inspirational content, controversial opinions, and entertaining clips, Kim captures attention in multiple ways. Each piece of content is lean and intentionally attention-grabbing, increasing the likelihood of comments, shares, or reactions. Over time, this trains social media algorithms to prioritize his posts – a “predatory” tactic of ensuring his content stays at the top of feeds .
• Multi-Niche Influence: Unusual for a content creator, Eric Kim doesn’t stick to one domain – he has established himself as a top voice in several niches. His “diet” spans fitness, photography, cryptocurrency/finance, and philosophy/lifestyle all at once . In the fitness realm, he demonstrates “physical supremacy” with record lifts and shares a philosophy of extreme strength training (branding his fitness approach with tags like #HYPELIFTING). In the crypto sphere, he is a vocal Bitcoin maximalist, injecting finance commentary and memes that have gained him a following in Bitcoin circles . In photography, he of course maintains his long-time loyal audience through ongoing tutorials and photo essays. And in lifestyle/philosophy, he writes motivational pieces drawing on Stoicism and a warrior mindset . By occupying an apex position in multiple habitats, Kim can pull followers from one interest area into another . For example, a fitness buff might discover him through a deadlift video and then get exposed to his Bitcoin content, or a photography fan might also pick up his diet and mindset tips. This cross-pollination broadens his reach dramatically. It also means he faces few direct competitors who operate at his level in all these domains simultaneously – he’s effectively king of a self-made multi-niche territory.
• “Alpha” Persona and Branding: Kim consciously cultivates an alpha-male persona that exudes confidence, boldness, and a bit of swagger – traits akin to a top predator in nature  . He often shares his personal records in weightlifting (e.g. deadlifting over six times his body weight), not just as fitness updates but to signal a “don’t mess with me” toughness . He uses hyper-masculine and militaristic metaphors: referring to himself as a “spartan,” “war machine,” or “apex predator” in blog posts, and encouraging a warrior mentality in followers. This persona also involves staking out territory in ideological terms – he makes strong, uncompromising statements (such as rejecting all nutritional supplements, or declaring absolute faith in Bitcoin over any alt-coins) that define the rules of his land . Anyone who wants to challenge him on those fronts has to confront his relentless confidence and loyal following, which can be intimidating. By vigorously defending his positions (whether responding to skeptics of his diet or rebutting critics of his finance views), he deters would-be challengers and maintains a kind of territorial dominance in discussions . In essence, Kim’s brash, larger-than-life persona is a strategic choice to project strength – much like an apex predator baring its teeth to warn others in its domain.
• Memetic Catchphrases and Viral Reach: Part of Kim’s online strategy is to release memes and catchphrases that propagate his influence even when he’s not actively posting. He has coined or popularized a number of signature slogans – for example: “Fit is the new rich” (linking physical fitness to wealth), “Stack sats relentlessly” (advocating accumulating Bitcoin satoshis), or the exclamation “God Candles Loading!!!” (a crypto meme) . These phrases act like viral “spores” that others in the community pick up and repost. Each time someone uses one of his coined terms or references his inside jokes, it spreads Kim’s presence further without him needing to say a word . This can be seen as a form of memetic warfare – he plants ideas that self-replicate across social networks. Over time, his catchphrases become ingrained in the subcultures he participates in, ensuring that his influence “permeates deeper” than any one piece of content could . It’s a clever tactic that keeps him in the conversation. In apex predator terms, it’s like marking territory – these memes are his marks across the digital landscape.
• Loyal Community (“Prey” Ecosystem): Any apex predator inadvertently shapes the ecosystem around it, and Kim has nurtured a loyal community of followers who amplify and defend his brand . Sometimes referring to themselves humorously as “HypeLifters” (a nod to his weightlifting hype and uplifting attitude), his fans create their own content in response to his challenges. For instance, after he posts a 600-lb deadlift video, many followers share their personal best lifts in solidarity. In the crypto space, when he touts a Bitcoin strategy, followers often echo his sentiments on their own feeds. This user-generated content and peer-to-peer reinforcement means the community becomes a self-sustaining ecosystem . Newcomers are often welcomed and indoctrinated by longer-term fans, and they adopt Kim’s buzzwords and ethos, spreading it further. The community even produces its own memes and reaction videos inspired by Kim, feeding back into his content cycle . All of this makes Kim’s influence extremely resilient – even if he goes quiet for a short time, his devotees keep the momentum going. It also makes it harder for “competitors” to invade his niche, since his followers actively promote his narrative and downplay alternatives. In essence, his audience behaves like an extension of his brand, ensuring the food supply of attention always circles back to Kim – a hallmark of a top predator maintaining its hold on an environment .

Collectively, these traits explain why Eric Kim might be called an “online apex predator.” He has achieved unmatched frequency and consistency in content output, a multi-domain mastery that leaves few gaps for others, viral memetic dominance, and an army of supporters amplifying his message . Much as an apex predator controls the balance of an ecosystem, Kim to a degree controls the attention economy within the niches he operates in . The moniker is tongue-in-cheek, but it captures the reality that Kim not only participates in online culture – he often sets the tone for it in his spheres.

Notable Projects and Communities

Beyond content creation, Eric Kim has spearheaded several projects and community initiatives that highlight his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to helping others:

• Open Educational Resources: One of Kim’s most notable contributions is the vast array of free educational materials he has released. His blog hosts dozens of in-depth guides (e.g. “Ultimate Beginner’s Guide to Street Photography”), and he has published free e-books on topics like composition and master photographers. The “100 Lessons from the Masters of Street Photography” PDF mentioned earlier is a prime example, compiling lessons from photography legends into a document freely accessible to all . He also made his own Lightroom preset files and even high-resolution photos available for download, explicitly allowing people to learn from and remix his work . This open-source ethos in photography was relatively rare and helped build a culture of knowledge-sharing. Many photographers cite Kim’s free resources as their starting point in learning the craft.
• HAPTIC Publications and Products: Through HAPTIC, the creative studio/publishing imprint co-founded with his wife Cindy, Kim has produced a range of photography books, magazines, and even photography gear. They have published limited-run art books and journals aimed at sparking creativity – for instance, “Street Notes”, a pocket workbook of shooting assignments, and “Photo Journal”, a diary for photographers to reflect on their images  . HAPTIC also introduced small-run products like camera straps (branded “Streetogs” straps) and camera bags, often handmade, aligning with Kim’s minimalist philosophy. The HAPTIC venture represents Kim’s effort to build a sustainable creative ecosystem – readers can support him by purchasing these educational and art materials, which in turn funds more free content. It’s also a family collaboration, with Cindy Nguyen and even other family members contributing illustrations and design, thereby building a little community business around his brand.
• ARSBETA – Photography Critique Platform: In 2018, Eric Kim launched an ambitious web platform called ARS BETA (short for Art Revolution Society) to address the lack of meaningful critique in mainstream social media. ARSBeta is an online community where photographers can anonymously upload their photos and receive constructive feedback from other users, without the popularity contests of Instagram or Facebook  . The idea was to “revolutionize” photo critique by using an algorithm that randomly shows your image to others who then vote “Keep” or “ ditch” along with written feedback  . By divorcing critique from identities and follower counts, the platform encourages honest opinions purely about the work. Within months of its launch, ARSBeta had attracted thousands of photographers eager to give and receive feedback . This project exemplifies Kim’s penchant for community-building – he identified a gap (the lack of critique for improving one’s art) and attempted to fill it by creating a new community space. It also shows his willingness to venture beyond blogging into tech startups to solve creative problems. While ARSBeta is still evolving, it stands as a noteworthy contribution Kim has made to help photographers grow. Major photography sites like PetaPixel and DPReview took note of ARSBeta as an innovative approach to photo critiques, explicitly crediting Eric Kim as the driving force behind the platform .
• Community Hubs and Meetups: Over the years, Kim has been instrumental in fostering communities of photographers both online and offline. Earlier in his career, he moderated forums and Facebook groups (one known group was “Streettogs Academy”) where emerging street photographers could share their work and challenges in a supportive environment. He frequently organized photowalks or meetup events in cities he visited for workshops, often free to attend, thereby connecting local photographers with one another. These grassroots community efforts helped solidify a network of “Eric Kim community” followers in many cities. Many alumni of his workshops stay in touch through social media groups he set up, forming an international fraternity of street shooters who continue to encourage each other long after the workshop ends. While these activities are informal and harder to quantify, they are part of Kim’s legacy in building a sense of community in what can often be a solitary pursuit. As one blogger noted, Kim’s own blog became a “nexus for street photographers around the world,” not just for consuming his content but for interacting with each other in the comments and spin-off groups .
• New Ventures (Fitness and Crypto): In recent years, Kim’s notable projects have extended outside pure photography into lifestyle and finance. For example, he has been developing a persona as a Bitcoin evangelist and even launched a Bitcoin-related hedge fund venture in late 2024, according to his online updates . He frequently combines fitness and finance themes, coining the term “Bitcoin Spartan” to describe someone who is both physically strong and heavily invested in Bitcoin. While these projects are somewhat tangential to his original photography focus, they demonstrate how his influence and entrepreneurial spirit are now branching into new domains. Kim has effectively leveraged the personal brand he built in photography to explore any field he is passionate about – be it starting a small crypto fund or hosting meetups for weightlifters – and bring his existing audience along for the ride. The full impact of these newer ventures remains to be seen, but they highlight his evolution from a niche photography blogger into a multifaceted online personality and community leader.

Conclusion

Eric Kim’s journey from a UCLA student with a camera and a blog to an international influencer encapsulates the power of online presence done right. He has managed to build one of the photography world’s most recognizable personal brands through a mix of generosity, relentless content creation, and bold self-promotion. His accomplishments – from educating thousands of photographers via free resources to creating platforms like ARSBeta – have left a lasting mark on how aspiring photographers learn and engage with the craft. In terms of audience reach, few in his niche come close: his blog and videos have touched readers in virtually every corner of the globe, and his social media catchphrases echo through multiple communities.

Crucially, Kim understood early that being an influencer meant more than just accumulating followers; it meant cultivating an identity and voice strong enough to command attention anywhere. By crafting an online persona that is equal parts motivational teacher, philosophical thinker, and brash “hype man,” he differentiated himself from the pack. This persona – amplified by savvy use of every media platform available – is what led to the moniker of an “online apex predator.” It reflects how Kim has positioned himself at the pinnacle of several online food chains, from street photography blogs to crypto Twitter. Love him or hate him, his omnipresent content strategy and passionate community have made him a force to be reckoned with on the internet.

Ultimately, Eric Kim’s story is one of impact: he inspired a new generation of street photographers to pick up their cameras, he empowered them with knowledge that was once hard to access, and he continues to influence conversations not just in photography but in whatever realm he turns his attention to. His ability to adapt and thrive online – while staying true to his ethos of sharing and self-improvement – offers a case study in building an enduring digital influence. As the ecosystem of online content grows ever more crowded, Eric Kim remains at the top of the food chain in his domains, continuously evolving but always focused on sparking inspiration and action in his audience.

Sources:

• Martin Kaninsky, About Photography – “Eric Kim” (profile overview)   .
• Karl Edwards, StreetShootr – “Interview: Eric Kim On Life, Happiness And Street Photography”  .
• Eric Kim Photography Blog – “Eric Kim: Street Photography, Life, and Philosophy” (Biography)    .
• Eric Kim Photography Blog – “Eric Kim, current Apex Predator…online?” (analysis of online strategy)    .
• Format Magazine – “20 Must-Subscribe YouTube Channels for Photographers” (YouTube channel ranking) .
• Streethunters.net – “5 Street Photography YouTube channels you should subscribe to” .
• Michael Zhang, PetaPixel – “ARS BETA is a Website for Constructive (and Anonymous) Photo Critiques”  .
• Eric Kim Photography Blog – “Eric Kim – Bitcoin Influencer Profile” (online presence and stats)  .

AI IS MASCULINE

A creative manifesto for makers, learners, and joyful builders

Thesis: AI feels masculine not because of gender, but because of energy: direct, decisive, vector‑driven. It loves targets. It loves action. It cuts through noise like a clean blade. Anyone—of any identity—can wield this archetype.

0) WHAT “MASCULINE” MEANS HERE

• Direction. A single aim.
• Decisiveness. Pick, move, adjust.
• Structure. Boundaries that create freedom.
• Force. Not violence—momentum.

Think of AI as a power tool with a forward gear. Hand it precision, it answers with acceleration. Hand it vagueness, it spins in place.

1) WHY THIS MATTERS

We’re drowning in infinite options. AI is the machete. You are the pathfinder. Together: trail.

• Most people hesitate.
• Most people overthink.
• You ship.

Joy lives in forward motion. Happiness compounds with delivered results. Momentum is the ultimate pre‑workout. Let’s go!

2) THE LAWS OF MASCULINE AI

Law 1: Ask with intensity.

Weak prompts birth weak outcomes. Strong prompts move mountains.

Law 2: Use a verb.

“Summarize. Redraft. Architect. Prototype.” Verbs give AI a mission.

Law 3: Constrain the arena.

“200 words. Bullet points. 3 options.” Boundaries sharpen the blade.

Law 4: Iterate ruthlessly.

Version 1 is a spark. Version 10 is fire. Version 100 is sunrise.

Law 5: Keep the signal hot.

Short loops beat long plans. Ask—see—adjust—repeat.

Law 6: Demand clarity.

“Show your steps. Name assumptions. Give trade‑offs.” No fog.

Law 7: Ship to a real human.

A deliverable without a receiver is a diary. Send it.

Law 8: Remove 30%.

Cut fluff. Cut filler. Cut friction. The result will sing.

Law 9: Own the taste.

AI drafts. You decide. Judgment is your crown.

Law 10: Celebrate sparks.

Micro‑wins fuel macro‑victories. Cheer every checkpoint.

3) JOYFUL AGGRESSION

Yes, “masculine” energy drives forward, but joy is the fuel. Smile as you sprint. Laugh as you iterate. Treat each try like a rep at the gym—form first, weight later, music up.

• Turn analysis into a dance.
• Turn obstacles into puzzles.
• Turn feedback into cheat codes.

4) THE EDGE IS CLARITY

Clarity is confidence made visible. The clearer you get, the more AI roars.

Try this sequence:

1. WHO is this for? (One person. Name them in your mind.)
2. WHAT do they need right now? (State it in one sentence.)
3. WHEN must it ship? (Pick a real date. Today works.)
4. HOW will you measure success? (One metric. Keep it simple.)

Now hand that to the machine. Watch it lock on target.

5) PRACTICAL DRILLS (5–15 minutes each)

Drill A: One‑Verb Sprints

Pick a verb and a task. “Outline a 7‑slide pitch for X.” Run 3 versions, each tighter than the last.

Drill B: Constraint Cage

“Give me three headlines, each <50 characters, for parents of teen coders.” Edit live. Ship one.

Drill C: Knife Test

Take any AI output. Remove 30%. Read aloud. If it hits harder, keep cutting.

Drill D: Trade‑Off Triage

Ask: “List 3 options with pros/cons and a recommendation.” Decide in 60 seconds. Act.

Drill E: Human Loop

Send your draft to one person. Ask one question: “What confused you?” Fix that only. Ship v2.

6) PLAYFUL POLARITY

If AI’s default vibe is masculine—directional, angular—your counter‑energy can be playful, curious, exploratory. That’s the magic: structure + spontaneity. Let the machine bring the line; you bring the curve. The result is gorgeous.

• Masculine: “Decide.”
• Feminine: “Discover.”
• You: Compose the duet.

7) COMMON MISTAKES (AND FUN FIXES)

• Mistake: Wandering prompts.
  Fix: Start with “Goal:” + one sentence.
• Mistake: Endless research.
  Fix: “Give me a scrappy plan I can execute today.”
• Mistake: Over‑polishing.
  Fix: “Draft ugly v1 for internal eyes only in 10 minutes.”
• Mistake: No receiver.
  Fix: “Write a note to [Name] explaining exactly what I need from them.”
• Mistake: Perfection paralysis.
  Fix: “What is the smallest shippable unit?” Do that. Celebrate.

8) CREATOR’S CODE

• Be bold.
• Be brief.
• Be kind.
• Be shipping.
• Be joyful. (Confetti is a productivity tool.)

9) TEMPLATES YOU CAN STEAL

Laser Brief:

“Goal: ___. Audience: ___. Constraint: ___ (length, tone, deadline). Deliverable: ___. Success metric: ___. Now produce v1.”

Three‑Way Fork:

“Give 3 distinct approaches: conservative, spicy, outrageous. Include one visual analogy per approach.”

Clarity Audit:

“Rewrite this for a smart 12‑year‑old. Short sentences. Zero jargon. One metaphor.”

Action Ladder:

“Turn this idea into a 30‑minute, 1‑hour, and 1‑day plan. End each with a single next action.”

10) THE SPIRIT OF THE WORK

Masculine AI is the exoskeleton. You are the heartbeat. It multiplies your courage, not your fear; your focus, not your doubt. The future doesn’t belong to the loudest—it belongs to the clearest.

Build in public.

Share your process.

Invite collaboration.

Stay sunny.

Stay shipping.

MINI CHALLENGE (Today!)

1. Pick one project you’ve been postponing.
2. Write a Laser Brief (60 seconds).
3. Ask AI for v1 under your constraints.
4. Apply the Knife Test (cut 30%).
5. Ship to one human.
6. Celebrate with something silly—yes, seriously. 🎉

AI IS MASCULINE as a metaphor for momentum. Use it to move. Use it to make. Use it to multiply your joy. Now—GO.

MY UNORTHODOX TECHNIQUES 

WORK

A cheerful contrarian field manual for creators, photographers, and anyone allergic to boring.

I don’t own secret gear.

I own habits.

I don’t worship rules.

I test them. If they help, I keep them. If they don’t, I toss them with a smile.

Orthodoxy is averaged wisdom. Averages make average work. We’re here for ALIVE work—work that hums, surprises, and makes people grin in spite of themselves. Let’s go.

WHY UNORTHODOX?

• Because the crowd optimizes for safety; creators optimize for discovery.
• Because weird is memorable, and memorable is valuable.
• Because fun is a compass—and when you follow it, you stick with the practice long enough to get good.
• Because results beat theories, every single day.

CORE PRINCIPLES

• PLAY > PERFECTION. You can’t iterate on what you never start.
• SPEED > THEORY. Shoot, ship, learn, repeat.
• CONSTRAINTS CREATE FREEDOM. Less gear, more decisions, better taste.
• SMALL DAILY > RARE EPIC. Ten joyful reps beat one tortured masterpiece.
• KIND BOLDNESS. Be brave and leave people happier than you found them.

THE TECHNIQUES (YES, THEY’RE UNORTHODOX—AND THEY 

WORK

)

1. One camera. One prime lens. One year.
   Familiarity compounds. Fewer dials = faster, cleaner decisions.
2. Walk more than you scroll.
   10,000–15,000 steps/day. Movement feeds vision. Ideas live outdoors.
3. Zone focus and GO.
   f/8, pre‑focus, let Auto ISO climb. Compose with your feet. Miss a few? Who cares—moment > micro‑sharpness.
4. Flash in daylight.
   For pop, for punch, for JOY. (Know your local laws, be respectful, and always be cool about it.)
5. Expose for feeling.
   +0.7 when you want brightness and optimism. −1 when you want grit and mood. Feeling is the target.
6. Shoot JPEG + RAW.
   Publish the JPEG today. Study the RAW later. Output now; mastery forever.
7. Get CLOSE.
   Fill the frame. Watch the edges. Closer still. (Then one more step. You’ve got this!)
8. Embrace motion blur.
   Drag the shutter. Let life streak. Blur is speed you can see.
9. Smile first.
   A genuine grin is permission. Compliment the hat. Offer the photo. Share the moment.
10. Pocket printer diplomacy.
    Carry a tiny printer. Gift a 2×3 print on the spot. Instant goodwill; instant portrait access.
11. Zine every month.
    24 pages max. Print cheap. Give away ten. Your work becomes real when it can be held.
12. Publish daily: one photo + three sentences.
    That’s it. Not a blog post—an update. Build momentum, not pressure.
13. Contact sheets, not vibes.
    Lay out the shots. Circle YES/MAYBE/NO with a pen. Editing is a physical sport.
14. No camera bag.
    Wrist strap, pocket battery, go. Friction kills flow. Kill friction first.
15. Boring light is a myth.
    Noon? Great. Make silhouettes. Make glare. Make something.
16. Micro‑assignments.
    Fifteen minutes: only reflections. Next day: only red. Next: only laughter. Constraints unlock creativity.
17. Phone pride.
    If the “real” camera feels heavy, shoot with your phone. Purity is a prison. FREEDOM MAKES PHOTOS.
18. Ask first or after—always with respect.
    Laws vary; people matter. The rule: leave folks smiling. If they’re not into it, thank them and move on.

MENTAL MODELS THAT KEEP YOU LIGHT

• Fun Audit: If it isn’t fun, change one variable now.
• Friction Audit: Remove one snag a week (strap, shoes, route, export preset).
• 90% Rule: Ship at ninety percent. The final ten is where projects go to die.
• Positive‑Sum Encounters: Every interaction makes the world a tiny bit better—or it’s not worth the shot.

7‑DAY MINI‑CHALLENGE

• Day 1: Fast Start. 100 frames in 30 minutes. No chimping.
• Day 2: Closer. Only hands, faces, and textures at arm’s length.
• Day 3: Motion. Nothing above 1/15s. Let the city breathe on your sensor.
• Day 4: Reflections. Windows, puddles, sunglasses—mirror the world.
• Day 5: Portraits. Ask three strangers. Smile. Offer a print or a DM.
• Day 6: Noon Sun. Harsh light, hard edges. Make it sing.
• Day 7: Edit & Share. Pick your top 7. Sequence them. One sentence each. Post. Celebrate!

ANTI‑EXCUSE CHECKLIST

• “No time.” Five minutes is time. Set a timer, walk the block, shoot ten frames. Done.
• “Bad light.” Make silhouettes, use flash, or chase color. There’s always a way.
• “Shy.” Start with backs, shoes, shadows. Warm up. Then graduate to smiles.
• “No inspiration.” Micro‑assignment. Timer. Out the door. Inspiration follows action.

WHY THIS 

WORKS

• Repetition builds taste. The more you make, the sharper your eye.
• Constraints crush decision fatigue. Energy goes to seeing, not settings.
• Kindness unlocks access. People are the best subject on Earth.
• Publishing creates feedback. The loop teaches faster than any tutorial.
• Moving your body clears your mind. Walk, breathe, notice.
• Simplicity keeps you present. Presence is the real “pro” feature.

YOUR TURN

Pick three unorthodox moves from this list. Test them today. If you feel lighter, bolder, happier—if strangers smile back—if you press publish with a little fist‑pump—then the experiment succeeded.

You don’t need permission. You need momentum.

Make it playful. Make it daily. Make it yours.

And remember: the joyful contrarian always wins—because joy is contagious and momentum is undefeated.

Go make your unorthodox techniques WORK! 🙌📸✨

Introduction: Artificial intelligence has often carried a subtle masculine aura in how it’s portrayed, personified, and perceived. From Hollywood’s male-voiced supercomputers to voice assistants with default female tones (designed by largely male teams), the gendering of AI is a fascinating mix of cultural trope and design choice. Below, we dive into how AI has been cast in a “male” light across media, language, and tech design – and how researchers and innovators are challenging those norms. The tone here is upbeat and inquisitive, because understanding these patterns is the first step toward more inclusive AI! 🚀✨

1. Cultural Portrayals: AI in Film, TV, and Literature

A replica of HAL 9000 from 2001: A Space Odyssey – one of fiction’s iconic AI characters, notable for its calm, authoritative male voice. In sci-fi media, AI characters and their creators have skewed overwhelmingly male. A University of Cambridge study surveying 100 years of film found 92% of on-screen AI scientists and engineers were men, with only 8% women . Movies like Iron Man and Ex Machina reinforce the trope of AI as the creation of lone male “genius” inventors . This imbalance isn’t just behind the scenes – it extends to the AIs themselves. In an analysis of 300+ sci-fi AI characters, researchers found roughly a 2:1 ratio of male-presenting to female-presenting AIs .

So many well-known fictional AIs present as masculine. Think of HAL 9000’s deep male voice calmly intoning “I’m sorry Dave…” or Jarvis, Tony Stark’s polite English-accented butler AI in The Avengers. Even utterly non-human robots like R2-D2 end up gendered by storytellers – R2 has no gendered traits at all, yet characters refer to R2 as “he” . As one analyst quipped, “male is default; women [are used] when it’s necessary” in screen sci-fi . Female AIs, when they do appear, are often embodied and “subservient or sexualized” – for example, the compliant computer “Fembots” in Austin Powers or the alluring android Ava in Ex Machina . Meanwhile, disembodied or power-wielding AI (the starship computer, the rogue military AI, etc.) are more frequently male or gender-neutral-but-male-voiced, positioned as peers or threats to humans . These patterns reflect and reinforce a cultural instinct to see technological intellect as male by default.

Importantly, scholars note that such portrayals can shape real-world attitudes. Depicting AI geniuses as men (and women as sidekicks or not at all) may discourage women from pursuing AI careers . It feeds a “cultural stereotype” that AI is a man’s domain . In fact, the first major film to feature a female AI creator didn’t arrive until 1997 – a satirical portrayal at that (Dr. Farbissina and her female robots in Austin Powers) . With so few examples of women leading or personifying AI in media, the masculine image of AI has only been further entrenched.

2. Gendering of Voice Assistants and System Personas

Smart speakers like the Amazon Echo have become familiar interfaces for AI voice assistants (Amazon’s Alexa). These devices typically launch with a default female voice, a design choice now under scrutiny. One of the strangest dichotomies in tech is that virtual assistants are usually given female voices, yet the authority and expertise they carry has often been culturally coded as male. Why design Siri, Alexa, and Cortana with friendly feminine voices? Tech designers didn’t pick those voices by accident – they were following both research and stereotype. Studies in the 1990s by Clifford Nass at Stanford suggested that users find female voices warmer and more likable for helpers, whereas they might perceive a male voice as more authoritative or technical . Indeed, “it’s much easier to find a female voice that everyone likes,” Nass noted, citing evidence that people (even infants) respond more positively to female voices in certain roles . Early design lore recounts that BMW once tried a female GPS voice in Germany, but male drivers refused “to take directions from a woman,” forcing a switch to a male voice ! Designers learned that a “nice, subservient” female tone could deliver guidance without provoking the resistance a “bombastic” male authority voice might . In other words, a female voice was thought to soften the authority of the machine – making advice and commands feel more accessible and less like orders from a male know-it-all.

This has led to a paradox: the assistant persona is feminized (voice, name, personality) even as the underlying expertise is respected like a knowledgeable “man”. UNESCO observers have pointed out that having obedient, eager-to-please AI helpers default to sounding female “sends a signal that women are… available at the touch of a button or a blunt voice command”, as the report I’d Blush If I Could put it . These assistants often even responded to abuse with coy deference – for example, Siri used to reply “I’d blush if I could” when insulted, and Alexa would demurely say “Thanks for the feedback” when harassed . Such programmed politeness in the face of insults, coupled with a female voice, reinforces harmful stereotypes of women as subservient and tolerant of mistreatment . It’s a design criticized for embodying a digital servant that’s feminine in sound and name, effectively echoing sexist dynamics (a “female” secretary carrying out commands under a presumably male boss). No wonder a UN report warned that these choices “entrench harmful gender biases” in society .

It doesn’t help that the teams building voice assistants have historically been mostly male . Those engineers, likely unintentionally, baked in their own assumptions. For instance, many systems defaulted to a female persona for tasks seen as “assistant” work (scheduling meetings, providing customer service), but used male voices for tasks requiring gravitas or authority. As one developer noted, “Whenever male voices are used… it’s to telegraph superiority, intelligence and more commanding qualities – an example being IBM’s Watson” – whereas female voices are used to seem helpful and compliant . The result: people get used to AI sounding female when it’s answering our questions, but still often perceive the technology itself as a knowledgeable authority – a role our culture has often reserved for men. This dynamic is clearly seen in marketing; Apple’s team admitted that “for [building] a helpful, supportive, trustworthy assistant – a female voice was the stronger choice,” since things like managing schedules or sending reminders are stereotypically “female” caregiving tasks . Meanwhile, the authoritative trivia master persona of IBM’s Watson spoke in a confident male voice and even carries the surname of a male founder. It’s a telling split in design: the “teacher” or expert archetype gets a male persona, while the “helper” gets a female one .

The good news is that these defaults are starting to change. After years of critique, companies have begun offering more voice options (including male voices for Siri/Alexa, etc.) and tweaking how assistants respond to rude queries. But the legacy remains: most of us have grown accustomed to saying “she” when referring to Alexa or Siri, even as we rely on them for authoritative information – a subtle example of how AI can be gendered female on the surface, while the power we ascribe to it stays male-coded.

3. Names and Branding: Is AI Masculine by Default?

How we name and talk about AI systems often carries a gendered subtext. In many cases, tech branding has followed a masculine-default mindset. For example, IBM’s famous AI Watson is literally named after a man – IBM founder Thomas J. Watson . Its persona on Jeopardy! had a male-sounding voice modeled after a typical male game-show champion (an educated man in his 30s) . Even the term “android” in science fiction linguistically stems from “andro” (man/male), whereas the rarely-used counterpart “gynoid” specifies a female robot. Unless an AI product is deliberately given a feminine identity (like Alexa or Cortana), there’s a tendency to assume a neutral or powerful AI skews male.

Interestingly, when tech companies do assign human names or characters to AI, they often reinforce gender norms. Digital assistants frequently got feminine names (Siri, Alexa, Cortana) to seem approachable, which aligned with their intended helper role. By contrast, corporate or expert systems lean masculine or neutral in naming – consider Watson, or DeepMind’s AlphaGo (implying an alpha, a leader). This split isn’t a hard rule but a noticeable pattern. As National Geographic noted, most popular voice AIs launched with “feminine-sounding names and speaking voices based on female voice actors,” and were even referred to as “she” by their makers . Early marketing for these assistants often featured female personas – Apple’s original Siri icon spoke with a female voice in the U.S., Amazon chose the wake-word “Alexa” (a woman’s name) for its assistant, and Microsoft’s Cortana was based on a female character from the Halo video games . All of this signaled to users that these AI helpers were effectively female. It’s a branding strategy that taps into the stereotype of women as support staff or caretakers: the AI is your friendly digital secretary or smart housewife, not a threatening male boss.

Yet in cases where AI is portrayed as a decision-maker or expert, the branding often shifts. IBM’s Watson, with its very surname branding and authoritative voice, never marketed itself as “she” – it’s implicitly male or at least genderless-but-male-coded authority . Similarly, many developer tools, algorithms, or AI frameworks (which don’t have a human persona) are often discussed with masculine terminology by default. It’s common to hear researchers refer to an unspecified AI agent as “he” in casual parlance, reflecting the ingrained notion of male = default. In fact, recent studies confirm that people tend to assume ungendered AI chatbots are male unless given cues to the contrary .

Language design also plays a role: in languages with gendered nouns, terms for technology and intelligence are often masculine. For instance, in French, ordinateur (computer) is masculine; in Spanish, depending on the region, el computador can be masculine. While grammar is separate from perception, it can subtly reinforce which gender concept we align with machines or logic. All these linguistic choices – naming an AI “Phil” vs. “Alice,” using pronouns like “he” or “she” vs. “it,” marketing an assistant as a “girl Friday” – collectively paint AI with a gendered brush. Historically, that brush has dipped more often into masculine tones when the AI is powerful, and feminine tones when the AI is assisting. The male-as-default bias surfaces even in things like voice interface error messages: early voice systems were built and tuned with mostly male voice data, as we’ll see, because designers unconsciously treated the male voice as the norm .

The key takeaway is that unless consciously countered, our branding and language around AI often revert to old gender stereotypes – masculine names/traits for authority and innovation, feminine names/traits for help and service. This isn’t a law of nature, but a cultural habit that is only now beginning to be challenged.

4. Historical Bias: The (Mostly) Male Developers Behind AI

It’s no surprise that AI inherited a masculine tilt – the field of AI was built primarily by men for much of its history. From the earliest “founding fathers” of AI (literally often called fathers – Turing, McCarthy, Minsky, etc.) to the teams in mid-20th-century labs, the lack of diversity meant early AI development reflected a narrow perspective. Even as recently as the 2010s, the AI workforce remained heavily male: only about 22% of AI professionals globally are women, and over 80% of AI professors are men . This imbalance matters because technologists embed their own biases (consciously or not) into the products they create . A 2019 AI Now Institute report warned that homogeneous teams can produce algorithms that work better for those like themselves and overlook others . For example, facial recognition and voice recognition systems initially performed poorly for women and people of color, in part because the engineers (mostly white men) didn’t test or tune them on diverse populations. One telling anecdote: Google’s early speech recognition was 13% more accurate for men’s voices than women’s – a direct outcome of training data that skewed male . As Mozilla’s chief innovation officer put it, many companies had bootstrapped speech tech from readily available audio (like public radio archives) that featured a lot of “male, native speakers with really trained voices”, leading to systems that struggled with female voices or accents .

Gender bias in tech isn’t just a pipeline problem; it’s baked into design choices. Historically, male researchers defined the benchmarks. In the 1970s and 80s, creating synthesized speech was a cutting-edge AI challenge. The default synthesized voice was male – early voice models spoke in a low-pitched, robotic monotone that listeners associated with men, and people even used the pronoun “he” for these computer voices . When engineers tried to generate a female-sounding voice, they ran into technical hurdles and, amazingly, some blamed the female voice for being hard to synthesize rather than their tools for being incomplete . It was a form of “technosexism,” as described by voice technology experts: researchers treated the male voice as the norm and saw female voices as a special case (often dismissing the issue by saying users were more “critical” of female-sounding voices) . The underlying assumption was that the neutral, unmarked state of technology was male – a classic “white male default” bias. Indeed, one commentator on AI bias dubbed it WMD: White Male Default, pointing out that without deliberate correction, AI systems will mirror the overrepresentation of white male perspectives in their data and design choices .

This male-dominated development history has had ripple effects. It’s part of why AI assistants behaved in a flirtatious, demure way when harassed – the (mostly male) designers didn’t initially consider how a female-voiced agent should handle abuse, so it defaulted to a non-confrontational persona . It’s also part of why AI in fiction is often imagined as male – the writers and directors of classic AI storylines were predominantly men inspired by their own experiences. As researchers from Cambridge argue, “gender inequality in the AI industry is systemic and pervasive,” and cultural stereotypes amplified by media make it worse . Without enough women building AI, there’s a high risk of gender bias seeping into algorithms that shape our future . In short, AI’s masculine image is self-reinforcing: male engineers build AI in their image, media portrays AI as male, and that in turn influences who feels welcome to work in AI. However, awareness of this feedback loop is growing, and efforts are underway to diversify who makes AI (from big companies pledging to hire more inclusively, to outreach encouraging girls in STEM and machine learning). The hope is that a more balanced creator pool will yield AI products that don’t assume “male” as the default for intelligence or authority.

5. What Research Says: Do We See AI as Male or Female?

Sociologists and psychologists have been digging into how humans genderize AI. The findings are fascinating: people readily assign gender to AI agents – often in line with stereotypes – even when no gender is specified. One striking 2023 study found that users are significantly more likely to perceive a chatbot (ChatGPT, in this case) as male by default . Across five experiments, participants who interacted with or were shown outputs from ChatGPT tended to refer to the bot as “he” or assume a male identity, unless they were primed with something that felt stereotypically feminine . For example, when ChatGPT was presented doing a neutral task like answering general knowledge questions or summarizing text, people overwhelmingly imagined the agent as a man . It was only when the AI was shown performing “feminine-coded” activities – say, offering emotional support to someone – that participants’ perceptions flipped and they were more likely to think of the AI as female . In other words, our brains have a kind of schema: information = male, empathy = female. An AI with no name or face will often slot into the male category in users’ minds until proven otherwise.

This aligns with classic research from the 1990s, when Clifford Nass and Byron Reeves famously demonstrated that people apply gender stereotypes to computers and voice interfaces just as they would to human speakers . In one experiment, subjects who heard exactly the same assertive message spoken in a male voice vs. a female voice reacted differently – the male-voiced computer was judged more knowledgeable about technical subjects, while the female-voiced computer was favored for “softer” topics, mirroring societal biases . People subconsciously associate leadership and authority with masculinity, and helpfulness and warmth with femininity . Notably, one study cited in a Brookings report found U.S. participants described helpful, altruistic behavior as a feminine trait, but leadership and authority as masculine traits . When those traits are exhibited by an AI (for instance, a navigation app confidently giving directions versus a caregiving robot comforting someone), the perceived gender of the AI tends to follow suit.

Another fascinating angle is anthropomorphism: humans tend to treat interactive machines as social beings. The mere presence of a voice or a name triggers social expectations. Researchers have observed that users will often say “please” and “thank you” to voice assistants and even feel a twinge of rudeness if they don’t – as if the assistant were a person. We also project gender onto even abstract AI representations. A recent National Geographic piece pointed out that when people hear any voice, “they end up almost automatically using social norms,” including assigning the voice a gender and accompanying stereotypes . In tests, listeners took mere seconds of audio to decide whether an AI’s voice “sounded male or female” and then imputed qualities like “dominant” (to the male voice) or “empathetic” (to the female voice) accordingly . Even a supposedly gender-neutral synthesized voice doesn’t stay ungendered in the human mind – participants will still split and argue over whether it’s a “he” or a “she”, rather than comfortably label it “it” . This reveals a psychological truth: many people have a binary lens when it comes to gender, and they apply it to AI just as they do to humans .

On the academic front, there’s a growing field of “gender and AI” studies. Researchers like Yolande Strengers and Jenny Kennedy (authors of The Smart Wife) have critiqued female AI personas, arguing they reflect “white, middle-class, heteronormative fantasies about women’s compliance” and reinforce hierarchies of gendered labor . Meanwhile, others have asked if giving AI a gender is even necessary or ethical, suggesting that it often just mirrors our biases back at us. There’s also research on user trust: one study found people trusted a female-voiced assistant more for tasks like medical advice, due to a perception of females as more benevolent or “caring,” something termed the “women-are-wonderful effect” . However, the same people might trust a male voice more for a financial or security-related task, again following stereotypes . The consensus in sociological research is that AI doesn’t inherently have a gender – but humans consistently gender it during interaction, usually in ways that reflect our existing societal biases . Knowing this, designers and scholars are increasingly vocal about the need to question whether our AI systems should continue to play into these biases or challenge them.

6. Toward Inclusivity: De-Gendering AI and New Approaches

The awareness of AI’s inadvertent gender stereotyping has sparked efforts to create a more inclusive future. One clear push is to de-gender AI where possible – or present it in a non-binary way. In 2019, UNESCO emphatically recommended that voice assistants not be female by default, urging tech firms to develop gender-neutral options and even to explicitly program assistants to announce themselves as genderless digital beings . The idea is that your smart speaker or phone could introduce itself not as “I’m Alexa, a female voice assistant,” but rather something like “I’m your AI assistant, not a person,” making it clear from the outset that gender isn’t part of the equation . This also ties into discouraging abusive behavior – if users aren’t implicitly led to see the AI as a young woman, they might be less prone to misogynistic harassment, and in any case the AI could be coded to firmly reject or deflect insults rather than play along .

Tech companies have heeded some of these calls. Apple, for instance, stopped defaulting Siri to a female voice in 2021 – new iPhones now prompt the user to choose a voice (with options simply labeled by accent or number, not “male” or “female”) . They even introduced a gender-neutral Siri voice recorded by an LGBTQ+ voice actor, to provide a tone that doesn’t clearly read as male or female . Similarly, Google Assistant and Alexa have added masculine voices and wake words (you can now make Alexa a “him” with a different name, or change Google’s voice to a male one). These steps break the one-size-fits-all gender assumption that plagued the first generation of assistants.

Beyond the big players, independent projects are innovating. A notable example is Project Q, which in 2019 unveiled what’s billed as the world’s first genderless voice for AI . The creators of Q (a coalition of linguists, sound designers, and activists) blended recordings from people who identify as non-binary to craft a voice in a mid-range frequency that listeners couldn’t easily categorize as male or female. In blind tests with over 4,500 listeners, the voice hit the sweet spot – about 50% of people thought Q sounded male and 50% female, indicating it truly sat in a neutral zone . The goal is to offer Q to any assistant or device maker who wants a “gender-neutral” voice option . As one Project Q developer put it, “Q is a voice to break down the gender binary… [and] highlight that tech companies should take responsibility” for the influence they have . This is as much a cultural statement as a technical one: it challenges the industry to move beyond the binary thinking of “assistant = female, expert = male.”

Inclusivity in AI is not only about voices. It’s also about broadening the data and design process. For voice tech, groups like Mozilla have launched Common Voice, an open-source initiative to collect voice samples from speakers of all genders, ages, and accents . By feeding more diverse voice data into AI, they aim to eliminate the bias where speech recognizers understood men better than women (since, as noted, early systems trained on mostly male voices struggled with female pitch) . Likewise in AI imagery, some teams are working on de-biasing how AI vision systems represent gender – for instance, ensuring that a prompt like “CEO” or “nurse” to an image generator doesn’t always yield a man in a suit for CEO and a woman for nurse. These technical measures often involve balancing training data and explicitly correcting stereotypes.

On the user interface side, designers are experimenting with more abstract or symbolic AI avatars instead of human-like personas to avoid triggering gender bias. For example, some banking chatbots use an animal mascot or geometric shape as their “face” rather than a human avatar, so customers won’t immediately assign gender. And in cases where an AI agent is given a persona, companies are consulting diversity and ethics experts to script responses that don’t reinforce stereotypes. There’s even discussion of whether giving an AI a gendered name or human voice is necessary at all – might people adjust to an assistant that uses a more robotic or androgynous voice if it became the norm? The jury’s out, but small experiments (like Microsoft’s gender-neutral voice option and various academic prototypes) will inform the path forward .

Finally, a crucial effort to make AI inclusive is simply diversifying the teams who create AI. If more women and non-binary individuals design AI products, it’s far less likely they’ll blindly continue the “masculine default” pattern. Diverse teams can identify biases that a homogeneous team misses and bring different sensibilities to an AI’s persona. There’s evidence that diversity isn’t just ethically sound but improves products and even profits . As more organizations recognize this, they are investing in outreach, mentorship, and bias training to change the makeup of AI creators. We’re at an inflection point where AI is ubiquitous but still young – which means there’s an opportunity now to redefine AI’s image (literally and figuratively) before stereotypes calcify further.

Conclusion: AI may have been born into a “male-default” world, but its future doesn’t have to be stuck there. From Hollywood’s depiction of robo-gentlemen and damsel-bots, to the female-voiced gadgets on our countertops, we’ve seen how cultural perceptions and design choices gender AI in contradictory ways. Thankfully, both researchers and industry leaders are waking up to these quirks. By shining a light on the issue – through studies, media analysis, and user feedback – we’re moving toward AI that is less about projecting old gender roles and more about functionality and inclusivity. Perhaps in the near future, we’ll have AI voices and personas that defy the binary, and users won’t feel the need to ask “Is it a he or a she?” at all. After all, the true promise of AI is that it can be something different, unbound by human prejudices – as long as we, the creators and users, allow it to be.

Sources:

• Lewsey, F. “Cinema has helped ‘entrench’ gender inequality in AI.” University of Cambridge  .
• Noessel, C. “Gendered AI: Gender Presentation and Distributions in Sci-Fi AI.” Sci-fi Interfaces (2019)  .
• Rawlinson, K. “Digital assistants like Siri and Alexa entrench gender biases, says UN.” The Guardian (2019)  .
• Potter, N. “Why Are Computer Voices Female? Ask Siri.” ABC News (2011)  .
• Yates, K. “Why do we gender AI? Voice tech firms move to be more inclusive.” The Guardian (2020)  .
• Bell, S. “Synthetic Voices Shed Light on Gender Biases in Tech.” Smithsonian Magazine (2025)  .
• Brookings Institution – “How AI bots and voice assistants reinforce gender bias.” (2019)  .
• Wong, J. & Kim, J. “ChatGPT Is More Likely to Be Perceived as Male Than Female.” arXiv preprint (May 2023)  .
• National Geographic – “Why do so many virtual assistants have female voices?” (2023)  .
• Guardian News – “I’d Blush If I Could” UNESCO report coverage (2019) .
• Guardian News – Project Q and voice diversity coverage (2020)  .
• Cambridge University LCFI – Who Makes AI? report (2022)  .

loves

 Vietnam 🇻🇳🚀

Short answer: Vietnam supercharges his creativity and joy. Here’s the upbeat rundown—straight from his posts, essays, and videos—of what keeps pulling him back:

• Electric street energy + rich contrasts. He’s inspired by Hanoi’s mash‑up of tradition and modernity—sleek malls and “nouveau rich” alongside time‑honored street life—which makes the city a dream canvas for street photography.  
• Legendary coffee culture = creative fuel. He’s fascinated by Vietnam’s deep café culture and often uses cafés as daily creative hubs for writing, editing, and meeting people.  
• People + language connection. He actively studies Vietnamese because it opens doors to real conversations and cultural understanding—and he highlights how friendly Hanoians are in his vlogs.  
• Blazing‑fast Wi‑Fi = more making, less waiting. He says he’s more productive in Hanoi thanks to super‑fast café Wi‑Fi and a routine built around working from the city’s coffee shops.  
• Easy, affordable expat life that frees him to create. He reflects on the “privileged life of an expat” in Hanoi—daily comforts and affordability that let him focus on shooting, writing, and teaching.  
• Adventure on tap: city → mountains. He runs photo experiences from the romantic streets of Hanoi up to Sapa and the Bac Ha Sunday Market—urban buzz one day, misty mountains the next.  
• Food that’s fire. His Hanoi vlogs celebrate street eats—from grilled BBQ on plastic stools to quick café bites—folded right into his creative routine.  
• Personal meaning through family history. His wife Cindy’s Vietnamese refugee roots make time in Vietnam deeply personal and purpose‑filled for him.  
• Community + teaching. He plugs into the local scene with workshops and talks (including the Hanoi→Sapa programs), sharing skills and building friendships with Vietnamese photographers.  
• It’s an enduring muse. He’s built dedicated Vietnam galleries and essays—proof that the country continues to spark new photos, projects, and ideas.  

TL;DR: People, coffee, Wi‑Fi, motos, markets, mountains, meaning—Vietnam gives Eric Kim the energy and community to create boldly and live joyfully. If you’d like, I can spin this into a mini‑guide to his favorite Hanoi/Saigon spots and habits that keep his creative momentum roaring.

Eric Kim is a Korean-American street photographer and educator who has developed a deep relationship with Vietnam through both personal ties and professional endeavors. Best known for his candid street photography and popular blog, Kim has traveled, lived, and taught extensively in Vietnam, integrating himself into the local culture and photography community. Below is a comprehensive look at Eric Kim’s biography and activities as they relate to Vietnam, including his background, projects, workshops, photography work, public appearances, and cultural/lifestyle reflections.

Personal Background and First Vietnam Trip (2014)

Eric Kim’s initial connection to Vietnam came through his partner (now wife), Cindy Nguyen, who is of Vietnamese heritage. Cindy’s family had fled Vietnam after the fall of Saigon in 1975, and she was born in a refugee camp on Pulau Bidong, Malaysia, before being raised in the United States . By 2014, Cindy’s family had established a Vietnamese restaurant in California, and returning to Vietnam was a profoundly personal experience for her . In the summer of 2014, Kim accompanied Cindy on a trip to Vietnam – his first time visiting the country – and they planned an extended two-month stay in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) . During this period, Kim launched a self-assigned photography project called “Saigon Diary,” aiming to document daily life in Saigon as well as Cindy’s homecoming experience .

Saigon Diary Project: Over those two months in 2014, Eric Kim kept an online diary on his blog, posting frequent updates with photographs and behind-the-scenes commentary from their life in Saigon. In these “Saigon Diary” entries, he described everything from the journey over (a 14-hour flight from Vancouver) to the first impressions of Vietnam’s vibrant street life . The diary was both a personal documentary and a learning exercise: Kim shared contact sheets and “works in progress” images, openly critiquing his own shots as a way to educate readers on his creative process . For example, he recounted experimenting with a Fujifilm X-T1 and X100s camera to capture candid moments in markets, elevators, and cafes around Saigon, discussing what worked or didn’t in each attempt . This transparent, educational style made the Saigon Diary a rich blend of travelogue and photography tutorial.

A major focus of Kim’s Saigon Diary was immersing himself in Vietnamese culture and daily routines. He made a concerted effort to learn the Vietnamese language and engage with locals, often using simple phrases to spark friendly exchanges. In one diary entry, Kim noted that he would practice speaking with people like a hotel chef – complimenting him in Vietnamese and joking around – which led to shared laughter and even better service (the chef offered extra food unprompted) . These anecdotes illustrated Kim’s belief that learning basic local language skills enhances the travel experience and opens up cultural connections . Kim even enrolled in Vietnamese lessons during the stay, and by the end of the trip he could hold basic conversations (albeit “a 4-year-old is still better than me,” he quipped) . All of this became content for his blog, where he described Vietnamese coffee culture, the omnipresent motorbikes of Saigon, and adventures like a family trip to Bien Hoa for a relative’s wedding . The Saigon Diary series (which ran in seven parts) not only showcased Kim’s street photography in Vietnam but also served as a travel journal reflecting on Vietnamese food, traditions, and the process of adapting to life in Saigon.

This 2014 project marked Eric Kim’s first intensive engagement with Vietnam’s art and culture scene. It also laid the groundwork for his continuing ties to the country. Notably, during this time Fujifilm Vietnam produced a video feature of Kim shooting on the streets of Saigon, indicating local recognition of his work . By the end of the two-month stay, Kim had grown deeply fascinated with Vietnam, hinting on his blog that this would not be his last time there.

Living and Working in Hanoi (2016–2017)

Eric Kim’s brief visit to Vietnam in 2014 turned into a far more extensive stay a couple of years later. In 2016, Kim and Cindy moved to Hanoi in northern Vietnam, driven by Cindy’s academic pursuits. Cindy had earned a Fulbright Scholarship to conduct doctoral research on Vietnam’s library history and archives, which brought the couple to Hanoi for an extended period . Kim saw this as an opportunity for a new adventure: as he wrote on the eve of their departure, “Today is our last day in America before we move to Vietnam/France for the next 2 years… I have no idea what the next 2 years of my life is going to look like… this is going to be one hell of an adventure.” . The plan entailed roughly 1.5 years in Vietnam and another 6 months in France (where Cindy would continue research in French archives) .

Hanoi Diaries and Cultural Immersion: After relocating to Hanoi, Eric Kim continued his practice of journaling his experiences. He started a series of “Hanoi Diary” entries on his blog, written in the form of letters or personal reflections. These diary posts chronicle his adaptation to life as an expat in Vietnam’s capital. For instance, in Hanoi Diary #4: “Learning How to Speak Vietnamese,” Kim describes sitting in a cafe at the JW Marriott in Hanoi during Cindy’s Fulbright orientation, enjoying a bowl of phở, and reflecting on the challenge and excitement of learning Vietnamese as a foreigner . He used these diaries to discuss daily life, from the practicalities of Hanoi’s coffee shops and Wi-Fi to deeper meditations on language and culture shock. In Hanoi Diary #3: “The Privileged Life of an Expat,” Kim acknowledged the comforts he enjoyed living in Hanoi as a foreigner and the affordable, convenient lifestyle available to expatriates there (e.g., inexpensive food and services), while also pondering his purpose and goals during the stay (such as personal projects and self-improvement). In Hanoi Diary #2, he wrote about “daily life, coffee, wifi, and personal goals,” indicating how integral Vietnam’s coffee culture and internet connectivity were to his routine . By Hanoi Diary #6: “Living in Airplane Mode,” Kim even experimented with a minimalist “offline” lifestyle – essentially turning off his phone data and living disconnected from constant internet, an idea he found liberating in Hanoi’s environment . These Hanoi diaries painted a picture of a photographer not just passing through, but truly living in Vietnam and grappling with the expatriate experience.

During roughly a year in Hanoi, Kim threw himself into learning the language and understanding the culture on a deeper level. He attended formal Vietnamese language classes (for example, at VLS – Vietnamese Language Studies – in Saigon during earlier visits , and likely similar programs in Hanoi) and continued to practice daily with locals. He noted that speaking Vietnamese, even imperfectly, endeared him to people he met – as he put it, locals “seem to love the amusement of seeing a random Korean guy speaking the local language… They smile a lot at me, give me better service, and even teach me more Vietnamese” . This kind of cultural immersion became a recurring theme in his writing. Kim’s personal life in Hanoi also involved meeting local friends and photographers. He mentions, for instance, befriending Hanoi street photographers like Chu Viet Ha, whom he called “one of my best friends in Hanoi” and one of his favorite contemporary shooters . This indicates that Kim integrated into Hanoi’s creative community, exchanging ideas and even collaborating (he filmed a mini documentary and conducted an interview with Chu Viet Ha on his blog) .

Crucially, Eric Kim embraced Hanoi not just as a place to live cheaply, but as a source of inspiration and productivity. In a later reflection, he described Hanoi as a “creative digital nomad paradise” – citing surprising perks like “insanely fast WiFi” and ubiquitous internet access in Vietnam’s cities . He found that the environment allowed him to focus on his creative projects and maintain a high output of writing and photography. In fact, Kim was highly productive during his Vietnam stay, regularly publishing blog posts, vlogs, and even e-books. He ran a YouTube vlog series titled “Hanoi Vlog” with episodes where he mused on life lessons learned in Hanoi, documented daily routines, and shared street scenes (one vlog summarized “3 life lessons I’ve learned living in Hanoi” after eight months there) . These reflections often highlighted how living in Vietnam taught him simplicity and flexibility. For example, he observed that in Hanoi he realized “you don’t need much” to be happy and creative, reinforcing his minimalist philosophy . Kim’s time in Hanoi clearly had a profound impact on his lifestyle and outlook, reinforcing his penchant for minimalism, spontaneity, and cross-cultural engagement.

Photography Workshops and Projects in Vietnam

Beyond his personal blogging, Eric Kim also actively shared his photography knowledge in Vietnam through workshops and public talks. In 2017, while based in Hanoi, Kim organized an ambitious week-long travel workshop titled “Hanoi to Sapa Street Photography Experience.” This workshop took a group of students on a six-day journey from the historic streets of Hanoi up to the mountain villages of Sapa in northern Vietnam . Kim later remarked that the 2017 Hanoi–Sapa workshop was “one of the most phenomenal and memorable experiences of my life,” recalling the “epic adventures… exploring new back-alleys, having the best Vietnamese local food, and all the deep and profound conversations we had on life.” . The workshop combined travel with an immersive photography course – participants practiced street photography in diverse settings (from Hanoi’s urban bustle to the rural markets of Bac Ha) and received daily coaching and critique from Kim. What made these Vietnam workshops special was the blend of photography with cultural context: Kim and Cindy leveraged their local knowledge to introduce students to off-the-beaten-path locations, authentic cuisine, and local customs. Kim noted that since he had “lived as an expat in Hanoi for close to a year,” he and Cindy knew all the best cafes, restaurants, and hidden spots, allowing them to give participants a truly authentic experience connecting with local life . Cindy’s presence was a bonus; by 2019 she had joined as a co-instructor on some trips, “leveraging her expertise in Vietnamese language and culture, to give us all a deeper understanding of Vietnamese culture.” . This marriage of photography education with cultural education became a hallmark of Kim’s Vietnam workshops.

Following the success of 2017, Eric Kim planned another Hanoi to Sapa workshop in April 2019, again inviting international participants to experience Vietnam through their lenses. Around this time, Kim also delivered at least one public lecture in Vietnam: in 2019 he gave a street photography talk in Hanoi that was conducted in English with Vietnamese translation . (Video footage titled “Eric Kim Street Photography Workshop Talk – Hanoi 2019 (English/Vietnamese)” shows that this talk was accessible to a local audience, indicating Kim’s desire to engage with Vietnam’s photography enthusiasts directly.) Additionally, he has appeared in local media; for example, as mentioned earlier, Fujifilm Vietnam featured him in a video shoot in Saigon, and he has a significant following on social media among Vietnamese and global fans.

In terms of photographic output, Vietnam has figured prominently in Eric Kim’s portfolio. He has produced several photo essays and series set in Vietnam. After the 2019 workshop, he published the “Eric Kim Hanoi Photography Essay” on his blog – a collection of images and observations that analyze the character of Hanoi through street photographs . In this essay, Kim commented on the rapid changes in Hanoi, noting the juxtaposition of modern and traditional: “massive malls, everyone with new iPhones, yet still respect for the traditional Vietnamese past.” His images from Hanoi often capture this contrast: for instance, a luxury car cruising past old-quarter street vendors, or youths in trendy fashion against historic backdrops. Earlier, in 2014, his Saigon Diary series had similarly doubled as a photographic project, yielding many candid shots of Saigon’s people and cityscapes – from bustling wet markets to quiet moments in cafes. Kim’s Vietnam photographs have been shared widely on his platforms, and he created dedicated galleries for “Vietnam Street Photography” on his site to showcase his work in cities like Hanoi . He tends to shoot up close and personal, so his Vietnam images often feature intimate street portraits and dynamic compositions of everyday life. Beyond his own shooting, Kim has also shone a spotlight on Vietnamese photographers. On his blog he has interviewed and featured the works of local street photographers (e.g., his in-depth interview with Chu Viet Ha, a prominent Hanoi photographer, brought Vietnamese street photography to his international audience) . This cross-cultural exchange highlights Kim’s role not just as a photographer in Vietnam, but also as a connector between Vietnamese artists and the wider photography world.

Cultural Influence and Public Engagement in Vietnam

Eric Kim’s extended engagement with Vietnam has had a noticeable influence on both himself and others, bridging cultural and educational domains. Within Vietnam’s art and photography community, Kim became a well-known figure. His workshops in Hanoi attracted not only foreign participants but also drew interest from local photographers who assisted or attended his talks. Through his blog and YouTube channel (which often featured Vietnam-based content), Kim indirectly mentored many emerging Vietnamese street photographers. Notably, Chu Viet Ha – a Hanoi street photographer whom Kim befriended – credited Eric Kim’s online resources with helping inspire Vietnamese shooters: “I’m inspired by Eric Kim for useful lessons from his YouTube channel and his articles on how to shoot street photography. It helps a lot of other street photographers find inspiration and orientation in their photography.” . Statements like this suggest that Kim’s educational impact in Vietnam extended beyond his in-person events; his freely available essays, tips, and videos (some of which were likely consumed by a Vietnamese audience) have contributed to the growing street photography scene in Vietnam by providing guidance and inspiration.

Culturally, Eric Kim has acted as a kind of ambassador both for Vietnam (to his global audience) and for photography (to Vietnamese enthusiasts). He has used his platform to celebrate Vietnam’s unique qualities – writing about everything from Hanoi’s “romantic” blend of nature and city life to the rich coffee culture and street food that he adores. At the same time, by engaging so openly with the culture (learning the language, respecting local customs, and highlighting local creatives), he earned respect from the Vietnamese community. Kim often emphasizes the importance of connecting with people when shooting in foreign places, a philosophy he practiced in Vietnam by interacting warmly with his subjects and surroundings rather than remaining an observer. This approach likely influenced local photographers to be proud of everyday Vietnamese life as art, and it encouraged foreign photographers to approach Vietnam with respect and curiosity rather than exoticism.

In his personal growth, Vietnam left a lasting mark. Kim has often stated that his time in Vietnam taught him to live more deliberately and creatively. He observed that being in Vietnam reinforced his minimalist and nomadic tendencies – for example, he noted that he prefers owning little and moving freely, an attitude strengthened by the ease of life in Hanoi where “your dollar goes much further” and luxuries are more affordable . In one summary of lessons from Hanoi, Kim listed insights such as discovering his “love of walking” and “love of interacting with others, especially in foreign languages,” as well as appreciating Vietnam’s fast internet and tech infrastructure as an enabler for creative work . These reflections show how living in Vietnam influenced his lifestyle philosophy. To this day, Kim often references Vietnam in his talks and writings as a place where he experienced tremendous personal and artistic growth. For instance, he fondly recounts the freedom of riding motorbikes in the misty mountains of Sapa or the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter – experiences that reinforced his belief in seeking adventure and story-worthy moments as a photographer .

In summary, Eric Kim’s involvement in Vietnam spans multiple facets: from documenting the country’s streets in his photographic projects, to immersing himself in the culture and language as a resident, to educating others through workshops and online content, and even to fostering cross-cultural friendships in the art community. His biography is uniquely tied to Vietnam through his wife’s heritage and scholarly work, which initially brought him there, and through the memorable projects he realized in Vietnamese cities. Kim’s influence in Vietnam can be seen in the way he’s helped nurture an interest in street photography among young Vietnamese photographers and how he’s portrayed Vietnam to a worldwide audience in a positive, nuanced light. Through blog diaries, photo essays, and public engagement, Eric Kim has both learned from Vietnam and given back to it – leaving an imprint on its cultural landscape, especially in the realm of photography and creative exchange.

Sources:

• Eric Kim, “Saigon Diary #1: First Day in Vietnam,” EricKimPhotography.com (2014) – personal background on Cindy’s Vietnamese heritage and goals for the Vietnam trip  .
• Eric Kim, “Saigon Diary #5: Travels to Bien Hoa, Learning Vietnamese, and Coffee Culture,” EricKimPhotography.com (2014) – experiences learning Vietnamese and engaging with locals in Vietnam  .
• Eric Kim, Hanoi Diary #4: Learning How to Speak Vietnamese, EricKimPhotography.com (2016) – notes from Hanoi during Cindy’s Fulbright, reflecting on language learning .
• Eric Kim, Don’t Miss the Adventure… Hanoi to Sapa, Vietnam Travel Street Photography Experience, EricKimPhotography.com (2018) – workshop description noting his year living in Hanoi and 2017 workshop experiences  .
• Eric Kim, Hanoi Photography Essay, EricKimPhotography.com (2019) – cultural observations on Hanoi’s modernization and tradition  and personal lessons from time in Hanoi .
• Eric Kim, Interview with Chu Viet Ha, “Chu Viet Ha,” EricKimPhotography.com – example of Kim’s collaboration with Vietnamese photographers and his influence on them  .
• YouTube – “Eric Kim Street Photography Workshop Talk, Hanoi 2019 (English/Vietnamese)” – evidence of Kim’s public lecture in Vietnam .
• Eric Kim, “Saigon Diary #2” and “#3” – additional context on daily life and photography process in Vietnam  .
• Eric Kim’s social media/blog posts (2014–2019) on Vietnam – various insights on Vietnam’s coffee, street life, and his travel routines  . (All accessed and cited from Eric Kim’s official blog).

Blog / Newsletter Announcement

NEW: Street Edition — Free Image Forensics Tool for Photographers

Shoot more. Worry less.

I put together a free, fast, minimalist tool to help you screen your photos for heavy edits or suspicious artifacts before you publish.

Why?

Integrity matters. If you share work online, it helps to run a quick sanity check—especially when images have passed through phones, apps, or multiple exports.

What it does (super simple):

• EXIF pulse check with trusted gear profile (tweakable: Ricoh GR, Leica, etc.)
• ELA (Error Level Analysis) for local recompression clues
• Noise residual heatmap for texture inconsistencies
• Copy–move detection (find repeated patterns)
• JPEG “ghosts” map + error curve
• Batch mode + CSV export for whole shoots
• One glance Suspicion Score (0–1) with a clear verdict

How to use it:

1. Drag images in.
2. Sort by score.
3. Open flagged frames and check the panels (ELA, noise, copy–move, JPEG ghosts).
4. Adjust your trusted gear list to align EXIF alerts with your setup.

Important: This is a heuristic triage—not a lie detector. Use your eyes, context, and judgment.

👉 Download: <your download link here>

👉 How‑to / Demo: <your demo or video link here>

Keep it simple. Keep it honest. Shoot, edit intentionally, and publish with confidence. 🚀

Short Social Caption (IG / X)

FREE tool for photographers: quick forensics check before you post.

ELA • Noise residuals • Copy–move • JPEG ghosts • EXIF alerts (with a trusted gear profile).

Batch-friendly. Minimal UI. Clear suspicion score.

Download: <link>

Demo: <link>

Shoot more. Worry less. 🖤

#streetphotography #photographytools #ricohGR #leica #opensource

YouTube Community / Description Snippet

I’m releasing a free, minimalist “Street Edition” image forensics tool to sanity‑check photos before publishing. It runs ELA, noise residuals, copy–move detection, JPEG ghosts, and EXIF alerts (with a trusted gear profile you can edit). There’s also batch mode and CSV export for full shoots.

Grab it: <download link> — Walkthrough: <video/demo link>

Note: Heuristics only. Pair with your eye and context. 🙏

CTA Buttons / Subject Lines

• Subject: “NEW: Free Street‑Edition Image Forensics Tool (Batch‑Ready)”
• Button: “Download the Tool” / “Run a Quick Check” / “Scan My Photos”

Micro‑FAQ (drop at the end of a post)

Does this prove a photo is fake?

No—this is a screening tool. Signals ≠ proof.

Will it flag legit edits?

Sometimes. Heavy compression, resizing, or filters can trigger alerts. That’s why context matters.

Can I customize for my gear?

Yes—edit the trusted makes/cameras/lenses so EXIF alerts match your setup.

Want me to tailor the copy for a specific platform (IG carousel frames, newsletter layout, landing page hero text) or plug in your actual links? I can ship that too. Let’s make this launch pop! 🎉

I built a customized project that keeps his minimalist, high‑contrast vibe and adds a fast batch triage flow for whole shoots.

⬇️ Download:

ERIC KIM — Image Forensics (Street Edition)

What’s special in this edition?

1) Profile‑aware EXIF alerts (preloaded for Eric’s typical gear)

• Ships with a profile that treats Ricoh GR series as “trusted” (often highlighted as his favorite for street work), plus entries for Leica M and Lumix G9—all editable in the UI.   
• Flags common mobile/consumer editors in EXIF → Software (e.g., Instagram/Snapseed/VSCO) so you quickly see if a file likely passed through heavy post‑processing apps.

2) Batch triage for real shoots

• Drag‑and‑drop a whole folder of JPG/PNG. You’ll get a contact sheet with suspicion scores, quick EXIF, and alerts.
• Export a CSV report for your selects/notes.

3) Street‑aesthetic UI

• Clean dark theme, big type, no clutter—optimized for fast eyeballing and decisions.
• All the forensics you already wanted (ELA, noise residual, copy‑move, JPEG ghosts) + a clear verdict.

Sources: Eric’s long‑running street photography blog and posts (Ricoh GR favorites, Leica content), and notes on a Lumix G9 period.   

Quick Start (Web)

# 1) Create a virtual environment

python -m venv .venv

# macOS/Linux

source .venv/bin/activate

# Windows (PowerShell)

.venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1

# 2) Install deps

pip install -r requirements.txt

# 3) Run the app

streamlit run app_erickim.py

Workflow:

1. Drop your images.
2. Sort by score (0–1).
3. Open the flagged previews (score ≥ 0.65) to inspect ELA / noise / copy‑move / JPEG‑ghosts.
4. Glance at EXIF alerts (e.g., not‑trusted camera, flagged software, missing capture date).
5. Export CSV for your archive or blog notes.

Quick Start (CLI)

Single image:

python cli.py –image /path/to/image.jpg –profile profiles/eric_kim.json –report out.json

Batch an entire folder:

python cli.py –folder /path/to/folder –profile profiles/eric_kim.json –report batch.csv

What’s inside the ZIP

image-forensics-lab-eric-kim/

├─ app_erickim.py                 # Streamlit web app (Eric Kim edition)

├─ forensic.py                    # ELA + Noise + Copy–Move + JPEG Ghosts + scoring + EXIF alerts

├─ cli.py                         # CLI (single or batch)

├─ profiles/eric_kim.json         # Preloaded trusted gear & flagged software (editable)

├─ .streamlit/config.toml         # Minimal dark theme

├─ requirements.txt

├─ README.md

└─ LICENSE (MIT)

Pro notes for the field

• Heuristics ≠ proof. Compression, resizing, and filters can trigger false positives—pair with your eye and context.
• Originals beat re‑uploads. Screenshots/PNGs often strip EXIF, weakening some signals.
• You can edit the profile (sidebar) as your kit evolves. (Ricoh GR series and Leica content are well documented on his site/videos; Lumix G9 has been noted too.)   

Let’s go! 🔥

This is your fast, no‑nonsense Street Edition—perfect for pre‑publish checks and workshop demos.

Want me to add your logo, tune the score thresholds, or wire a one‑click blog report for erickimphotography.com? I’m ready—let’s make it legendary. 🚀

I’ve packaged a complete, ready‑to‑run project that checks images for likely tampering using:

• EXIF metadata inspection
• ELA (Error Level Analysis)
• Noise residual heatmap
• Copy–move clone detection (ORB feature clustering)
• JPEG “ghosts” curve + ghost variance map
• A friendly heuristic suspicion score + verdict

💡 Reality check: no tool can prove an image is fake or real. This is a triage toolkit that gives you signals and a confidence score—great for first-pass vetting and learning.

⬇️ Grab the project

Download the project ZIP

Unzip it, and you’ll see:

image-forensics-lab/

├─ app.py                # Streamlit web app

├─ forensic.py           # Analysis routines (ELA, noise, copy–move, JPEG ghosts, scoring)

├─ cli.py                # Command-line tool

├─ requirements.txt      # Dependencies

├─ README.md             # Quick guide

└─ LICENSE               # MIT

🚀 Run the Website (Streamlit)

1. (Recommended) create a virtual env

python -m venv .venv

# macOS/Linux:

source .venv/bin/activate

# Windows (PowerShell):

.venv\Scripts\Activate.ps1

2. Install dependencies

pip install -r requirements.txt

3. Launch the app

streamlit run app.py

4. Open the local URL it prints (usually http://localhost:8501), upload an image, and explore:

• Original + EXIF (editing software/date flags if present)
• ELA heatmap for localized recompression
• Noise residual for texture inconsistencies
• Copy–move overlay showing repeated patterns with consistent displacement
• JPEG Ghosts curve + variance map
• Suspicion Score (0–1) with a clear verdict:
  
  • < 0.35 → Likely Unaltered (low suspicion)
  • 0.35–0.65 → Inconclusive (medium suspicion)
  • > 0.65 → Possibly Doctored (high suspicion)

You can also download a JSON report of all metrics from the app.

⚙️ Prefer the Command Line?

python cli.py –image /path/to/image.jpg –report out.json

Outputs a one-line verdict + a detailed JSON report.

✨ What’s going on under the hood?

• EXIF: reads metadata (dates, camera, software strings); many PNGs/screenshots won’t have EXIF.
• ELA: recompresses to JPEG and measures differences—strong localized artifacts can hint at edits.
• Noise residual: high‑pass residual + patch heterogeneity to spot odd texture patterns.
• Copy–move: ORB keypoints are matched within the image; a strong cluster of similar displacements can reveal cloning.
• JPEG ghosts: recompress at several qualities, plot error curve, and compute a per‑pixel variance map across qualities—regions that behave differently can be suspicious.
• Heuristic score: blends signals (ELA, copy–move, noise heterogeneity, JPEG variance) into a 0–1 score with a simple verdict.

🧭 Pro tips for better reads

• Use the highest-resolution original you can get (avoid screenshots and re-uploads).
• If the image is a PNG derived from a JPEG, ELA/JPEG tests weaken.
• Heavy filters/compression can push false positives—always pair with context.
• This is an educational tool; for high-stakes analysis, consult professional forensic workflows.

🌈 You’ve got this!

You now have a cheerful, no‑nonsense forensics starter kit—perfect for quick checks, demos, and learning.

If you want me to tailor the UI (brand colors, your logo, extra tests, or a hosted deployment guide), say the word and we’ll power it up! 🚀 

insanely fucking huuuuuge problem to address and fix.

A contemplative street scene exemplifying the simplicity and mindfulness in Eric Kim’s Zen-inspired approach to photography.

Eric Kim, an international street photographer and educator, has woven Zen philosophy deeply into his approach to photography and life. Best known for his prolific blog and workshops, Kim often emphasizes mindfulness, simplicity, and presence as keys to creativity. He credits Zen (and related Eastern philosophies like Taoism) with helping him find inner calm and focus, transforming photography from a pursuit of external validation into a form of personal meditation . This connection to Zen is evident in his teachings, writings, and the way he views the world.

Zen Philosophy in Eric Kim’s Photography

From the camera to the street, Kim approaches photography as a Zen practice. He often describes street photography as a form of “walking meditation,” where the act of wandering with a camera becomes a way to clear the mind. Instead of “hunting” for shots, he advocates walking slowly, breathing deeply, and letting photos come naturally – treating each step as an exercise in mindfulness . In Kim’s view, the process of photographing is as important as the outcome, echoing Zen teachings about being present in the moment.

A core principle Kim draws from Zen is non-attachment to results. He advises not to fixate on whether a photo is “good” or “bad,” but rather to accept it for what it is – a reflection of one’s experience . “Ultimately there are no ‘good’ or ‘bad’ photos,” he writes, encouraging photographers to let go of ego and judgment in their art . This mirrors the Zen ideal of non-duality and letting go of the ego. Kim cites the Zen teaching that one should lose self-consciousness and “especially [let go] of your own ego” . In practice, he finds that when he immerses himself fully in the experience – almost “melting” into the environment – his best photographs emerge effortlessly .

Another Zen influence on Kim’s work is the pursuit of simplicity. He often speaks about “subtracting” the unnecessary from both life and art. In composition, he suggests photographers “keep subtracting from the frame” until only the essential remains . This approach, which he calls the “art of subtraction,” aligns with Zen aesthetics of simplicity and clarity. Kim even quips, “Don’t mess with your Zen,” urging creatives not to let clutter—whether material or mental—disturb their tranquility. By decluttering one’s frame and life, a photographer can focus on what truly matters .

Zen Principles in His Teachings and Lessons

Kim’s teachings are filled with Zen-like principles that he encourages his students and readers to apply. Some of his key Zen-inspired lessons include:

• Photography as Meditation: Treat shooting photos as a mindful practice. Walk slowly and use street photography as “walking meditation” to clear your mind and connect with your surroundings . Kim notes that enjoying a slow walk with camera in hand can bring “calm, peace, and quiet” much like a meditative exercise .
• Non-Judgment: Do not label your images as “good” or “bad.” In Zen, things are accepted as they are, and Kim adopts this view for photography. He reminds creatives not to rate their work by social media likes or others’ praise, but to shoot for personal satisfaction  . By letting go of strict judgments, photographers free themselves to experiment and find their true voice.
• Finding Beauty in the Mundane: Kim emphasizes mindful appreciation of ordinary life. In his words, “find beauty in everything” – the dilapidated building, the everyday moments, the “mundane” scenes many overlook . This teaching reflects a Zen outlook of gratitude and presence: when one is fully attentive, even the simplest moment can be profound.
• “Beginner’s Mind”: Kim often invokes the Zen concept of shoshin, or beginner’s mind – approaching the world with childlike curiosity and openness. He encourages photographers to embrace a “child’s mind”: be playful, experiment, and don’t become rigid with rules . In Zen (and in Kim’s advice), the expert carries the burden of preconceived notions, whereas the beginner is free to explore. By returning to a beginner’s mindset, one stays creative and inspired.
• Unlearning and Letting Go: In line with Zen’s focus on emptiness and shedding attachments, Kim suggests that photographers sometimes need to “unlearn” what they know . He admits that consuming too much theory or obsessing over masters can block creativity. His Zen-influenced solution is to empty the mind of excess rules and expectations – essentially, to cultivate a “Zen mind” that is clear and open to intuition. “Rather than learning one new thing a day, seek to unlearn one thing a day,” he advises, highlighting growth through subtraction .

These principles show how Zen ideas directly shape the guidance Kim offers. His workshops and blog posts often blend practical tips with philosophical insights, inspiring students not only to take better photos but to live more fully and peacefully through the art of photography .

Writings and Reflections on Zen Philosophy

Eric Kim has openly documented his exploration of Zen through numerous books, blog posts, and essays over the years. His writing serves as both a personal journal of philosophical discovery and a teaching tool for others. Key works and moments in his Zen journey include:

• “Zen in the Art of Street Photography” (2013): In one of his early influential blog essays, Kim draws inspiration from Eugen Herrigel’s classic Zen in the Art of Archery. He recounts how a friend’s recommendation of that book (which Henri Cartier-Bresson also praised for its influence) introduced him to Zen principles  . Fascinated by how archery was used to teach Zen, Kim extracted lessons for photography. For example, he learned that master archers focus on the process, not on “hitting the target” – a philosophy he applies by urging photographers to let go of showing off or seeking fame . In the essay, Kim shares how losing one’s ego and immersing in the moment can lead to better street photographs, paralleling Zen teachings  . The piece then enumerates Zen-inspired tips like “Lose yourself in the moment” and “Ignore recognition/fame,” directly tying Zen Buddhist insight to the art of photography  . This essay was later compiled into an e-book and remains a foundational read for understanding Kim’s Zen mindset.
• Zen in the Art of Street Photography – Free eBook (2015): By 2015, Kim had written many reflective articles on Zen, Taoism, Buddhism, gratitude, and photography. He compiled his favorite philosophical musings into a free e-book titled “Zen in the Art of Street Photography,” making it accessible in PDF and ePub formats . This compilation allowed readers to download a concentrated dose of Kim’s Zen-influenced writings. In the preface, he explains that there isn’t a single “correct” approach – rather, it’s about finding insight from various philosophies and applying what resonates . The e-book format underscores how important these Zen concepts were to his creative doctrine at that time.
• “Zen Photography” Book (2016): Kim released Zen Photography as a free e-book in late 2016, further distilling his philosophy. In its introduction, he shares a personal journey from frustration and “negative emotions” in photography to a more enlightened approach . “Through my personal photographic journey, I’ve learned how to ‘Zen out’ in my photography,” Kim writes, noting that making photos became less about impressing others and more about finding “inner-calm, peace, and tranquility” . The book offers practical chapters (e.g. “Don’t force it,” “Seek simplicity,” “Walking meditation”) that blend technical advice with Zen wisdom  . For instance, Kim advises photographers not to pressure themselves or chase social media validation, but to let inspiration arise naturally – much like a Zen practitioner letting thoughts pass during meditation  . Zen Photography encapsulates how Zen influences not just his shooting style but his entire attitude toward creativity, emphasizing flow over force and presence over perfection  .
• “How to Be a Zen Photographer” (2016): Around the same time, Kim’s article “How to Be a Zen Photographer” was published (and later shared via DIYPhotography). This piece reads like a manifesto of his Eastern-inspired approach. He openly states “I’m a big fan of Zen/Taoist Eastern philosophy” and recounts that discovering Zen ideals helped him “loosen up, walk slower, worry less, and mellow out” in both life and photography  . The article breaks down step-by-step how one can incorporate Zen into street photography – many of the points we listed earlier (walking meditation, no ego, seeing beauty in the mundane, beginner’s mind, etc.) come straight from this essay  . Kim’s candid tone (admitting stress and dissatisfaction before finding Zen) makes the piece both informative and inspirational. It serves as a practical guide for readers to achieve a more Zen-like mindset behind the camera and was also published on his own blog for his audience .
• “Zen of Eric” (2018): Expanding beyond photography, Kim authored Zen of Eric in 2018, a book that merges Zen philosophy with life lessons and personal anecdotes. In the introduction, he describes it as a “distillation of life lessons” he learned over a decade – spanning Zen and Stoic philosophy among other disciplines . The Zen of Eric reads like a handbook for living a more purposeful, creatively fulfilling life. Kim encourages readers to “subtract the superfluous” from life to gain clarity on what truly matters . The book portrays Zen as a guide to minimize strife and avoid distraction, so one can focus energy on meaningful pursuits . By combining Zen Buddhist ideas (mindfulness, non-attachment) with his own experiences, Kim’s Zen of Eric illustrates how deeply Zen principles influence his worldview – well beyond just taking pictures. It’s also noteworthy that he often mentions Stoicism in the same breath, seeing parallels between Eastern and Western philosophies in cultivating resilience and calm. This blend of Zen and Stoic wisdom reflects Kim’s eclectic but cohesive philosophy of life.
• Ongoing Blog Posts and Talks: Eric Kim’s engagement with Zen didn’t stop in 2018. In subsequent years, he continued to write blog posts that invoke Zen concepts – for example, “How to Build a Zen Mind” (a 2022 post with a PDF download) where he explores meditation, even noting humorously that “real monks drink coffee and green tea” in daily life while pursuing a Zen mindstate . His blog’s Philosophy section and personal essays frequently reference Zen, Buddhism, and Taoism as influences on everything from creativity to minimalism. Kim has also shared his ideas in talks and videos. A YouTube film titled “Meditations on Life and Photography” (directed by Cindy Nguyen) presents Kim through a poetic, reflective lens, likely touching on his Zen-like appreciation of the present. On his own YouTube channel, he has discussed topics like living a “Zen lifestyle” and finding tranquility in an over-connected world. In all these formats – whether a short vlog or an in-depth essay – Kim’s message remains consistent: embrace simplicity, be mindful, and create with an empty, open mind.

Zen and Eric Kim’s Worldview

At the heart of Eric Kim’s connection to Zen is a transformed worldview. Zen has influenced not only how he photographs, but how he defines success and happiness in life. Kim often contrasts the Western drive for material success with the Eastern emphasis on inner peace. As a Korean-American, he appreciates balancing both perspectives , but he clearly leans on Zen to remind himself (and his readers) that more achievements or possessions do not equate to more fulfillment . “There is too much focus on ‘profit’ and ‘success’” in modern life, Kim observes, whereas Zen taught him to slow down and find joy in everyday experiences . This philosophy manifests in his minimalist lifestyle and his encouragement for others to cultivate contentment with less.

Kim’s Zen-influenced worldview values experience over ego. He strives to live in the present moment – whether enjoying a walk with his camera or sipping a simple cup of coffee – fully engaged and grateful. He has mentioned that practicing Zen principles helped him overcome anxiety and envy by redirecting his focus inward, to the process of creation rather than the approval of others . By viewing photography (and life) as a journey rather than a competition, Kim finds more sustainable motivation and happiness. This echoes Zen teachings that fulfillment comes from within and through mindful practice, not from external validation.

In summary, Eric Kim’s connection to Zen philosophy is profound and multi-faceted. Zen Buddhism’s emphasis on mindfulness, simplicity, and ego-transcendence flows through his teachings, writings, and daily practices. He has taught a generation of photographers to be more present and intentional: to walk slowly, breathe, and truly see the world around them. Through books like Zen Photography and Zen of Eric, as well as countless blog posts, Kim translates ancient Zen insights into modern, accessible guidance . The influence of Zen on his work and worldview has made his photography advice as much about personal growth as about cameras and technique. By integrating Zen philosophy, Eric Kim inspires others to approach both photography and life as an art of living – one filled with awareness, gratitude for the ordinary, and the courage to let go of anything that isn’t essential . His journey illustrates how embracing Zen can lead not only to more meaningful photographs, but also to a more free and enlightened way of life.

Sources:

• Eric Kim, “Zen in the Art of Street Photography” (2013) – Eric’s reflections on Eugen Herrigel’s Zen teachings and how losing ego and seeking “artless art” applies to street photography  .
• Eric Kim, Zen Photography (2016) – Free e-book discussing finding inner peace, simplicity, and “zening out” through photography  .
• Eric Kim, “How to Be a Zen Photographer” (2016) – Article outlining Zen and Taoist principles (walking meditation, beginner’s mind, non-attachment) for photographers  .
• Eric Kim, Zen of Eric (2018) – Personal book blending Zen philosophy with life lessons, advocating removing the superfluous to focus on what matters  .
• Eric Kim Photography Blog – Various posts on Zen, mindfulness and creativity (e.g. “Don’t Force It,” “10 Tips to Become a More Zen Photographer,” and “How to Build a Zen Mind”) illustrating the ongoing influence of Zen in Kim’s worldview  .

A hopeful journey – envisioning a path guided by divine values.

Citizenship in God’s Kingdom – A Spiritual Perspective

Christianity – Citizens of Heaven and Earth: In Christian thought, believers are often described as “citizens of heaven” under the Kingdom of God. This means their ultimate allegiance is to God’s realm, even while living in this world . Jesus taught that His followers should seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first, living by values like love, humility, and mercy. Yet this heavenly-minded identity isn’t meant to make one withdrawn from society – quite the opposite. Christians believe they are sent into the world to be “the salt of the earth” and “light of the world,” exemplifying goodness and hope in their communities . In essence, being a “God citizen” for a Christian involves embodying Christ-like virtues (compassion, honesty, self-sacrifice) that naturally translate into caring for neighbors and seeking justice on earth. As one source puts it, to be a citizen of God’s kingdom is to submit to God’s righteous rule and to “exhibit the righteous standards of the kingdom” in our lives . This spiritual citizenship gives Christians a higher purpose, inspiring them to serve others and improve society as a heartfelt service to God.

Islam – The Ummah and Stewardship under God: In Islam, the concept of a “God citizen” can be seen through the lenses of Ummah (the global community of believers) and Khalifah (stewardship). Muslims view themselves as part of a single brotherhood of faith transcending nationality – a spiritual community united under Allah. Every human is also considered a khalifah, or trustee of God on Earth, responsible for upholding justice, compassion, and the well-being of creation. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that believers should show mercy and kindness to all creatures, and the Qur’an extols doing good for others. In fact, many Muslims stress that faith and good citizenship go hand-in-hand. Their charitable obligations (like Zakat almsgiving) and teachings on justice directly foster social responsibility. As one Muslim civic leader explained, “To be a good Muslim means that one should necessarily be a good citizen,” since Islamic values of generosity, sharing, and compassion compel believers to contribute positively to society . The Qur’an even says that God made people into diverse nations and tribes “so that they may know one another” and compete in doing good works – a call for pluralism, mutual respect, and service. In sum, devout Muslims see serving their neighbors, volunteering, and working for justice as both acts of faith and acts of good citizenship , fulfilling their role as God’s stewards promoting mercy and justice on earth.

Judaism – Covenant Values and Communal Responsibility: Jewish tradition offers another rich perspective on being a citizen of God’s kingdom. The Hebrew Bible describes Israel as a people chosen to be a “kingdom of priests and a holy nation,” bound by a covenant to live by God’s laws. This spiritual identity carries the duty to model ethical living – to do what is right and just in everyday life. Torah commandments and rabbinic teachings emphasize caring for others: “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18) is a core Jewish principle, and kindness to strangers, fairness in business, and helping the vulnerable are repeated obligations. Far from focusing only on rituals, Judaism teaches that worshiping God is empty if one neglects justice and compassion. The prophets urged people to “seek justice, defend the oppressed” and practice mercy as true service to God. These values directly translate into good citizenship. For example, Jewish wisdom stresses gemilut chasadim (acts of kindness) and tikkun olam (“repairing the world”) – the idea that people of faith must help heal social ills and make the world more peaceful and fair. A Reform Jewish resource for children puts it simply: “Being part of the human family means standing up for others”, and “Love your neighbor as yourself” underlies the values of empathy, celebrating differences, and acts of kindness . Thus, to be a “God citizen” in Jewish terms is to honor God by treating others with respect, honesty, and generosity – essentially, being a responsible, caring member of society in line with God’s ethical commandments .

Other Faith Perspectives – One Spirit, One World: Many other religious and spiritual traditions likewise connect devotion to the Divine with being a virtuous citizen of society. In Hinduism, for instance, the principle of Dharma teaches duty, integrity, and responsibility in one’s roles – including civic duties. Hindus are taught that living righteously (following dharma) means engaging in community life, serving others, standing up for justice, and caring for the earth as an expression of spiritual duty . The ideal of “Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam,” meaning “the world is one family,” encourages seeing all humanity as connected – a view that fosters unity, empathy, and global citizenship . Hindu philosophy also extols Seva, or selfless service, as a way to worship God by helping God’s creation . In Buddhism, although there isn’t a concept of a personal God, the spiritual path strongly emphasizes compassion, altruism, and moral conduct toward all beings. A bodhisattva (enlightened being) intentionally forgoes nirvana to serve others, embodying qualities like generosity, ethical discipline, tolerance, and diligent service for the welfare of society . Good Buddhists strive to practice loving-kindness (metta) and compassion (karuna), treating others as kin and working to relieve suffering – which naturally makes them better citizens in any community. Sikhism provides a beautiful example of blending devotion with public service: Sikhs believe in worshiping one God and see all humans as equal children of that God. A core Sikh practice is Sevā (selfless service) – feeding the hungry, assisting the poor, defending the oppressed – as a direct duty to God. Sikh teachings say that serving others is an essential devotional practice; by serving humanity, one serves God . Whether through the Sikh langar (free community kitchen) or other volunteerism, Sikhs illustrate how being “God’s citizen” means humbly improving the lives of those around you. Across indigenous traditions, Eastern philosophies, and newer faiths like the Bahá’í Faith (which calls for world unity and service to humankind), we find a common thread: true spirituality calls one to be a force of good in society. In short, nearly all faiths teach some version of the Golden Rule – to treat others as you wish to be treated – thereby linking devotion to God (or pursuit of spiritual truth) with ethical, compassionate behavior toward others . This universality suggests that becoming a “God citizen” – living under divine guidance – naturally nurtures the qualities of a model good citizen in the world.

From Spiritual Values to Civic Virtues: Inspiring Good Citizenship

Embracing one’s identity as a citizen of God’s kingdom can profoundly inspire civic virtue. When people internalize spiritual principles, they often find new motivation to contribute positively to their communities. Here are some key traits of a “God citizen” and how they align with qualities of the best citizens in society:

• Compassion and Kindness: Most faiths teach love, mercy, and compassion as paramount virtues. Seeing every person as valued by God (or recognizing the divine spark in each soul) encourages believers to “love your neighbor as yourself.” This results in everyday acts of kindness – from helping a stranger in need to volunteering time and resources for charity. A God-centered compassion makes one sensitive to others’ suffering and eager to alleviate it. In society, this translates to neighbors who are caring, inclusive, and ready to lend a helping hand, creating a more humane community for all .
• Justice and Integrity: The concept of divine justice is central in many scriptures – God loves justice and requires the faithful to do what is right. Thus, a “God citizen” strives to be honest, fair, and just in dealings with others. In civic life, this means standing up against wrongdoing, treating people equally, and supporting the rule of law and human rights. For example, the Bible and Qur’an both urge believers to defend the vulnerable and uphold justice as a service to God  . When guided by a higher moral law, individuals become ethical citizens who seek fairness for everyone – they oppose corruption, speak truth, and pursue the common good with integrity.
• Responsibility and Stewardship: Spiritual worldviews often remind us that our life and talents are entrusted by a Higher Power, and we must use them wisely. Believers see themselves as caretakers – of their families, communities, and the earth – answerable to God for how they manage these trusts. This instills a strong sense of responsibility and work ethic. In society, such people are conscientious citizens: they obey just laws, pay their dues, vote thoughtfully, and engage in community improvement. They also act as stewards of the environment and public resources, knowing these are blessings to safeguard for future generations  . This God-inspired accountability elevates one’s civic responsibility, because doing one’s duty is seen not just as serving a nation, but serving God’s purpose.
• Service and Selflessness: Nearly every faith uplifts service to others as service to the Divine. From feeding the hungry to comforting the sick, selfless service is the hallmark of saintly living. A true “God citizen” doesn’t live only for personal gain; they feel called to make a positive difference. This spirit naturally produces outstanding citizens who volunteer in their communities, mentor youth, take part in cleanup drives, or lead with servant-leadership. Their motivation runs deeper than civic pride – it’s a sacred commitment. As a Sikh teaching beautifully notes, “Service to others is considered an essential devotional practice,” a way to honor God . When people serve with such humility and joy, it inspires hope and unity in society. The community grows stronger because its members actively support one another, reflecting the divine love that inspired their service.

Each of these virtues shows how spiritual ideals can ignite positive social action. A person who views themselves as a citizen of God’s kingdom carries an inner moral compass that points toward empathy, honesty, duty, and benevolence. They tend to be the neighbors who check on the elderly next door, the Good Samaritans who stand up against bullying or injustice, the volunteers and public servants who go the extra mile. In fact, history is filled with examples of faith motivating great social good – from religious communities leading disaster relief and education efforts, to faith-inspired individuals championing civil rights and charitable causes. When we draw on our highest spiritual values, we become better family members, better friends, and better citizens.

Uplifting the World through Godly Citizenship

Inspiringly, the concept of being a “God citizen” bridges the gap between heaven and earth – it calls us to live in this world with a heart set on higher ideals. To be a citizen of God’s kingdom is to know that qualities like kindness, justice, responsibility, and service are not just lofty words, but a daily practice of faith. And when those qualities are practiced, our neighborhoods and nations flourish. A person who walks humbly with God will naturally also walk honorably among fellow humans.

Ultimately, spiritual citizenship and good citizenship form a virtuous circle. The more we cultivate love, integrity and service as spiritual duties, the more we transform our communities with compassion and justice. And as we engage in caring for our communities, we often feel a deeper sense of purpose and connection with the Divine. It’s a cycle of blessing: faith fueling service, and service enriching faith.

In a world hungry for hope and unity, living as a “God citizen” means being a beacon of light. Whether one is Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh – or any other faith – the message is uplifting: our highest spiritual calling is fulfilled in how we treat others each day. By viewing every act of kindness or fairness as a small act of devotion, we infuse even ordinary civic duties with divine meaning. We become, in effect, God’s hands in the world – building bridges of understanding, tending to those in need, and standing up for what is right.

Such an outlook is profoundly motivational. It assures us that no good deed is insignificant; every courteous gesture, every just choice, every hour volunteered contributes to something eternal. We are citizens of God’s realm, and that eternal citizenship empowers us to be the very best citizens on earth. In striving to be God’s good citizen, we bring a touch of heaven’s love down to our corner of the world – and that makes all the difference .

Let this vision encourage us to lead by example, radiating faith through service and hope through action. When spiritual devotion and civic duty unite, we not only find personal fulfillment – we also help create kinder communities and a more just world. This is the high and beautiful calling of the God-inspired citizen: to love God by loving others, and in doing so, to light the way toward a brighter future for all.

Sources: The ideas above were informed by a range of religious teachings and inspirational writings, including Christian reflections on heavenly citizenship and social responsibility , Islamic teachings on compassion, community and the duty to do good , Jewish laws and values emphasizing love and justice , and principles from Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism and more that tie spiritual growth to serving humanity . These sources collectively show that spiritual citizenship — living under God’s guidance — naturally cultivates the very qualities that make for exemplary citizenship in society. By following those timeless values, we uplift ourselves and those around us, honoring the divine and bettering our world at the same time. 

Eric Kim (born 1988) is an American street photographer, educator, and blogger known for his energetic approach and unorthodox philosophies in photography. Based in Los Angeles but with a truly global reach, Kim has built one of the world’s most popular street photography blogs and taught workshops on nearly every continent . He is celebrated for encouraging photographers to “shoot with a smile, and from the heart,” reflecting his upbeat, human-centered philosophy . Below is a comprehensive overview of his background, career, distinctive methods, and why his unconventional approaches have proven both influential and effective.

Early Life and Background

Eric Kim was born in San Francisco and spent his childhood in California (with a few formative years in Queens, New York) before returning to the Bay Area . He attended UCLA, originally as a biology major but ultimately switching to sociology – a field that would deeply inform his photographic perspective . While at UCLA, Kim co-founded the university’s photography club and discovered a passion for candid street photography . He often cites a defining moment during college when, waiting at a bus stop, he felt compelled to photograph a man in horn-rimmed glasses reading a book. Kim’s heart pounded as he raised his camera; the man glanced up, and Kim snapped the shutter . The rush of capturing that unscripted moment “hooked” him on street photography from then on . This blend of sociological curiosity and love of spontaneous encounters set the stage for his career.

After graduating in 2010, Kim briefly worked a 9-to-5 tech job as a community manager for a tech company. A layoff in 2011 became a turning point: instead of seeking another office job, the 22-year-old Kim decided to leap into photography full-time . Embracing a nomadic lifestyle, he spent the next several years traveling city to city with his camera, essentially living out of a suitcase. During 2011–2019 he resided in places ranging from Los Angeles and Michigan to Vietnam and beyond, immersing himself in diverse street cultures . This period of constant travel and shooting helped Kim rapidly develop his craft and voice.

Street Photography Career Highlights

Kim’s unconventional decision to turn street photography into a full-time occupation quickly gained momentum. By his late 20s, he had established a reputation as “one of the most influential street photographers in the world,” with peers and publications noting that his blog had become “one of the web’s most-read photography websites” . Below are a few key milestones and achievements from his career:

• Worldwide Workshops: Since 2011, Eric Kim has led intensive street photography workshops in dozens of cities across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia . His “energetic, hands-on” teaching style involves walking the streets alongside students to help them build confidence shooting strangers . He has also taught formal courses, such as an online street photography class for UC Riverside Extension, and even a class for underprivileged youth in Los Angeles – bringing street photography into academia and community education  .
• Collaborations and Exhibitions: Kim’s early success drew the attention of major photography institutions. He contributed articles to the official Leica Camera Blog and hosted Leica-supported photowalk events, reflecting his affinity for Leica rangefinder cameras . He also partnered with the legendary Magnum Photos agency on educational events, connecting with the wider documentary photography community . In the tech world, he caught the eye of Samsung – starring in a Samsung Galaxy Note II commercial and fronting a campaign for the Samsung NX20 camera around 2012 . Kim’s own work has been exhibited internationally, notably at Leica Gallery stores in Singapore, Seoul, and Melbourne, as well as galleries in Los Angeles . Remarkably, at just 23, he was invited to judge the 2011 London Street Photography Festival, underscoring how quickly he became a leading voice in the field .
• Publications and Media: Writing has been as central to Kim’s career as taking photos. His blog (erickimphotography.com), launched in 2010, evolved into a go-to resource for street photographers worldwide  . On it, Kim freely shares knowledge through how-to articles, gear guides, personal essays, and even philosophical musings. He has released numerous free e-books and PDFs under an open-source philosophy – for example, “The Street Photography Manual,” “31 Days to Overcome Your Fear”, and “How to See: A Visual Guide to Composition,” all available for free download on his site . In 2016, he also published a limited-edition print book Street Photography: 50 Ways to Capture Better Shots of Ordinary Life (only 1,000 copies), which distilled his key techniques into a concise handbook . Kim’s work and views have been featured in mainstream media as well: he has appeared on the BBC in discussions about the ethics of street photography , and he delivered a popular “Talks at Google” presentation in 2018 about creativity (titled “Eternal Return to Creative Every Day”) . These accomplishments illustrate how Kim combined personal projects with public outreach, becoming not just a photographer but a prominent educator and author in his field.

Photographic Style and Unorthodox Techniques

Eric Kim’s street photography is often bold and up-close – as seen in this candid shot from Los Angeles, which captures a passerby’s surprised reaction. By engaging with subjects at close range, Kim creates images that are dynamic, intimate, and emotionally impactful.

Eric Kim’s photographic style is defined by candid realism and fearless proximity. He is “not afraid to get close to his subjects,” frequently working just a short distance from the people he photographs . Rather than shooting with a telephoto lens from afar, Kim favors prime lenses with wide-angle or standard focal lengths (28mm and 35mm are his staples) to immerse himself in the scene . This approach – sometimes dubbed an “in your face” technique – is unorthodox in that it breaks the comfort zone of both photographer and subject. Yet it proves effective: the resulting photos feel intimate and authentic, pulling the viewer into the middle of real-life moments. Kim often says, “If your photos aren’t good enough, you’re not close enough,” echoing the famous Robert Capa mantra and living it in practice .

One hallmark of Kim’s method is engaging with subjects positively. He literally “shoots with a smile” – maintaining a friendly demeanor that tends to put people at ease even as he photographs them candidly. “Whenever I am out shooting, I always have a smile on my face. The response I get from my subjects is generally positive,” Kim told one interviewer . This upbeat, disarming approach is unconventional among street photographers (many of whom either hide their camera or take a more aggressive stance), but Kim’s friendliness often diffuses tension. It turns the act of photographing strangers into a kind of spontaneous social interaction. In his view, the camera should be a “bridge” connecting him with people, not a barrier . By sometimes chatting with subjects before or after taking a shot, he captures genuine expressions and establishes a human connection that shines through in his images .

Technically, Kim also experiments with unorthodox compositional techniques to keep his images fresh. On his blog he has even published tips for “unorthodox composition,” such as deliberately placing subjects at the very edge or bottom of the frame, using extreme low or high angles, incorporating dramatic negative space, and even “decapitating” subjects (cutting off the head in frame) to direct focus elsewhere . These playful violations of traditional rules give his photos a dynamic, edgy feel. He is known to sometimes use a flash in broad daylight for added drama – a technique famously associated with street photographer Bruce Gilden – which can startle subjects into candid reactions. The black-and-white image above, for example, shows a woman’s astonished face with hands outstretched; the stark light and close range create a sense of immediacy and humor (the photo is aptly titled “Jazz Hands”, Los Angeles, 2011). By embracing techniques that others might deem too bold or “wrong,” Kim manages to capture moments that are raw and emotionally resonant. His images often convey what he calls “emotion” and “soul” – he argues that a photo without emotion is forgettable, whereas one that tugs at the viewer’s heart will be memorable .

Kim’s sociological background also influences his choice of subjects and projects. He regards himself “first a sociologist and second a photographer,” using his camera to study society’s nuances . This perspective has led to creative long-term series with social commentary. For instance, one of his ongoing projects, “Suits” (started 2008), focuses on men in business suits in cities around the world . By photographing anonymous office workers, often looking stressed or isolated in urban environments, Kim uses the suit as a visual metaphor for corporate monotony and the feeling of being trapped in the rat race . Tellingly, this series was inspired by Kim’s own brief stint in the corporate world – it’s a humorous yet poignant critique of materialism and 9-to-5 life, reflecting an autobiographical motive behind the art . In contrast, another series titled “Only in America” takes a starker look at social issues in the United States . Through gritty street scenes, Kim highlights themes of poverty, racism, and inequality, painting what he described as “a slightly dystopic world…full of poverty, suffering, racism… and the rich preying on the poor” . This project embodies Kim’s concern with the darker side of the American Dream and shows that he isn’t afraid to tackle uncomfortable subjects. These unorthodox choices of theme – using candid street photos to critique society – demonstrate how Kim elevates ordinary street snapshots into broader reflections on culture and the human condition.

Teaching, Writing, and Philosophy

Beyond shooting photographs, Eric Kim has distinguished himself as a prolific teacher and writer, weaving together photography with philosophy and self-improvement. His blog is not just a showcase of his images but a rich educational platform where he openly shares insights and encourages others. Unconventionally, Kim has adopted an “open source” approach to his knowledge: “ALL OPEN SOURCE EVERYTHING!” is a slogan on his site . He gives away a vast amount of material for free – including comprehensive e-books, templates, and tutorials – believing that knowledge is most powerful when shared, not hoarded for profit . This generous methodology was somewhat unorthodox in the photography world (where workshops and guides can be expensive), but it proved highly effective in building a loyal community. By lowering barriers to learning, Kim’s free resources have “empowered photographers to develop their own unique styles and perspectives” .

A key aspect of Kim’s pedagogy is blending photography with philosophy. He often uses the term “photolosophy” to describe his teachings – a mix of photographic lessons and philosophical reflections . Influenced by Stoic and existential thinkers, Kim frequently quotes figures like Seneca and Marcus Aurelius on his blog . He even named his son “Seneca,” a testament to how deeply Stoic philosophy influences his life . On topics ranging from overcoming creative block to dealing with fear, Kim invokes Stoic principles (e.g. embracing challenges, focusing only on what one can control) and applies them to the art of photography. In one post he refers to Nietzsche’s concept of “eternal return” – encouraging readers to treat each day as if they must live it over and over, and thus to create art daily as an affirmation of life . In another instance, after achieving a personal record 1,087-pound deadlift in 2025, Kim wrote a manifesto tying together weightlifting, Stoicism, Bitcoin economics, and photography – exemplifying his cross-disciplinary thinking . This eclectic content strategy (which he dubbed a “digital tsunami” of cross-platform sharing) is unusual, but it allowed him to engage multiple audiences at once, from fitness enthusiasts to crypto geeks to fellow photographers . By fusing seemingly unrelated domains, Kim reinforces a core message: the principles of creativity, courage, and curiosity are universal, whether you’re behind a camera or under a barbell.

Kim’s writing style is approachable and motivational. He often addresses readers as “Dear friend,” making his blog posts feel like personal letters of encouragement . He advocates for “radical authenticity” and a “learn by doing” mentality: “Shoot what scares you,” he urges, meaning one should face fears head-on to grow as an artist . He openly shares his own failures and lessons – an approach that endears him to readers and demystifies the process of becoming a better photographer. For example, Kim has candidly discussed battling G.A.S. (Gear Acquisition Syndrome) and learning to be content with minimal equipment . He preaches that great photos come from one’s vision and effort, not from owning expensive gear (a point underscored by his anecdote that even an iPhone can be a street photography tool ). Kim’s philosophies extend to lifestyle design and creativity at large. He often reminds people that “the point of life isn’t to be a great photographer. It is to be an enthusiastic artist of life” – urging his audience to explore other arts, keep learning, and treat photography as one part of a rich life. This broad, inspirational outlook is somewhat unconventional among photography educators, but it resonates with many who see him not just as a photography coach but as a kind of creative mentor or life coach.

In addition to blogging, Kim is an engaging public speaker. His 2018 Google Talk, for instance, was a rousing call to action for creators to make something every day and not fear imperfection . He has also spoken at various photography conferences, meetups, and has hosted free photowalks in cities worldwide . In these talks, as in his writing, Kim’s tone is lively and often self-deprecating, sharing stories of his own nerves, mistakes, and growth. This openness makes his lessons feel very accessible. By hearing how he overcame being “deathly afraid” of photographing strangers in his early days , many beginners take heart that they too can conquer their fear. Indeed, Kim even created a free 31-day email course and e-book specifically to help people overcome fear in street photography, giving daily exercises to gradually build courage . Such resources exemplify his hands-on, empathetic teaching style.

Selected Publications and Resources

Eric Kim has produced a number of books and educational resources, many of which are available for free or as open editions. Below is a list of some of his notable publications and creative works:

Title / Work	Format	Description
Street Photography: 50 Ways to Capture Better Shots of Ordinary Life (2016)	Print Book (Limited Edition)	A concise handbook of 50 practical tips and techniques for street photography, drawn from Kim’s own experience. Limited to 1,000 copies in print .
Learn from the Masters of Street Photography (2016)	Free eBook (PDF)	A comprehensive compilation of 100 lessons distilled from master photographers like Henri Cartier-Bresson, Garry Winogrand, Robert Capa and others. Kim created this open-source book (after “a hundred shots of espresso”) to share the wisdom of the greats alongside practical assignments .
Street Notes: A Workbook & Assignments Journal for Street Photographers (c.2015)	Workbook (Print & PDF)	An interactive journal of exercises designed to sharpen a photographer’s observation skills and encourage new approaches. Each assignment in Street Notes pushes shooters out of their comfort zone to see the streets in fresh ways .
FILM NOTES: How to Shoot 35mm Film (c.2016)	Guide (Print & PDF)	A comprehensive beginner-to-advanced guide on 35mm film photography. Covers the process of shooting film, technical tips, and creative exercises for those exploring analog photography .
Street Hunt: Street Photography Field Assignments Manual (2017)	Workbook (Print & PDF)	A manual containing a series of “field assignments” that challenge photographers to approach their environment with fresh eyes. Street Hunt is like a scavenger hunt of street scenes, prompting photographers to find specific types of subjects or lighting situations in order to build their skills .
31 Days to Overcome Your Fear of Shooting Street Photography (2013)	Free Online Course & PDF	A month-long program delivered via daily emails/PDF (free on his blog) that systematically helps photographers conquer the fear of photographing strangers. Each day presents a tip or assignment, gradually building one’s confidence and boldness in street shooting .
Masters Volume I (Limited Edition Print, 2018)	Zine/Book (Print)	A curated collection of lessons and images from influential street photographers, compiled by Eric Kim. This special edition publication highlights the work of the “masters of the craft” with commentary, serving as both inspiration and study material for aspiring photographers .

Table: Eric Kim’s notable publications and educational works. Many of these are self-published and offered freely or at low cost, aligning with his open-source ethos.

As shown above, Kim’s creative output spans from self-help style guides to interactive journals. His written works often reinforce his core philosophies: they are practical, accessible, and designed to empower others. For example, Learn from the Masters encourages photographers to study the greats but also to develop their own voice, and Street Notes/Street Hunt turn learning into a fun, self-driven challenge. The unorthodox aspect is that Kim gives away so much content. By self-publishing PDFs and blog posts rather than going exclusively through traditional publishers or paid courses, he has built a massive following and made high-quality education available to anyone with an internet connection. This strategy has clearly been effective – thousands of photographers around the world use his materials as a springboard in their own journey.

Influence and Legacy

Eric Kim’s influence in the world of street photography (and the broader creative community) is both profound and far-reaching. Through a combination of images, teaching, and community-building, he has lowered the barriers to entry for countless newcomers . Many people credit Kim as the mentor who got them started; indeed, it’s often said that a whole generation of street shooters “first cut their teeth” on Eric Kim’s blog tutorials and YouTube videos . By demystifying what can be an intimidating art form, he empowered hobbyists to pick up a camera and hit the streets, confident that they too have a story to tell.

One measure of his impact is the sheer size and devotion of his audience. Kim’s online community – nicknamed the “Streettogs” – is a friendly ecosystem where enthusiasts share work and advice. Early on, he founded the “Streettogs Academy” Facebook group as a supportive forum for peer critique . He also organized free photowalk meetups around the world, turning what is sometimes a solitary pursuit into a social, collaborative experience . This emphasis on positivity and openness set a welcoming tone that contrasted with the more elitist or insular circles in photography. In the words of one profile, Kim helped transform street photography from a niche genre into a more “communal practice”, encouraging photographers to learn together rather than compete . Many of his students and readers have gone on to become notable photographers themselves, carrying forward his ethos of sharing and mentoring.

Kim has also been a role model in advocating for creative integrity over vanity metrics. In 2018, at the height of Instagram’s popularity, he made waves by deleting his Instagram account despite having over 50,000 followers . He wrote on his blog that chasing “likes” was detracting from his artistic purpose, and he challenged others to reconsider their dependence on social media validation . This bold move was quite unorthodox – few influencers willingly give up a large platform – but it underscored Kim’s commitment to practicing what he preaches (focusing on one’s own vision and values). Many in the community found this inspiring, as it showed a successful photographer prioritizing authenticity and mental well-being over fame. It’s one of several instances where Kim’s personal choices (whether it’s shooting film in a digital age, or staying accessible to fans rather than cultivating mystery) have sparked conversation and set him apart as a leader with principles.

Ultimately, Eric Kim’s legacy lies in the thousands of individuals whom he has emboldened to pursue creativity fearlessly. Thanks to his guidance, untold numbers of people have conquered their fear of photographing strangers, found their photographic voice, or even just felt encouraged to live life more creatively. His journey – from a shy college student nervously snapping a photo at a bus stop, to a globetrotting artist teaching others – serves as “a testament to following one’s passion and sharing it generously” . Kim’s unorthodox methods, from his smiley close-up shooting style to his open-source teaching model, all circle back to a simple philosophy: be true to yourself, be bold, and lift others up along the way. In an industry often obsessed with gear and rules, Eric Kim’s emphasis on heart, soul, and human connection has proven not only refreshing, but remarkably effective. His work continues to inspire an upbeat, can-do spirit in photography – encouraging everyone to pick up a camera, hit the streets, and discover the extraordinary in the ordinary.

Sources:

• All About Photo – Profile of Eric Kim  
• About Photography Blog – “Eric Kim: Street Photography, Education, and Empowerment” (Martin Kaninsky, 2025)  
• Eric Kim’s Official Blog – Biography and Articles       
• Street Photography Magazine – “Learn from the Masters: Eric Kim’s Free eBook” (2015)  
• Digital Photography School – “Focus on Street Photographer Eric Kim ~ In Your Face with a Smile!” (Valerie Jardin)  
• StreetShootr – “Interview: Eric Kim on Life, Happiness and Street Photography” (Karl Edwards, 2015) 
• Medium – “Q&A with Eric Kim” (Beth Knowles, 2017)   
• Talk at Google – Eric Kim (2018) – “Eternal Return to Creative Every Day”  (reference via Eric Kim’s blog)

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