• The Wolf of Street Photography

    $900,000

    2% profit share

    Potential Profits for Eric Kim as Creator of “The Wolf of Street Photography”


    As the creator and writer of “The Wolf of Street Photography,” Eric Kim stands to earn profits through various revenue streams. The actual profits will depend on multiple factors, including the film’s budget, box office performance, distribution deals, and the specific terms of his contracts. Below is an analysis of potential profit avenues for Eric Kim:

    1. Script and Story Rights

    • Upfront Payment for Script:
    • Standard Rates:
      • For a writer of a feature film, upfront payments can range from $100,000 to $500,000, depending on experience and the project’s budget.
    • Assumption:
      • Eric Kim receives an upfront payment of $150,000 for the script (as previously budgeted).
    • Option Agreement:
    • If the script is optioned before production, Eric might receive an option fee (typically 10% of the purchase price).
    • Option Fee: $15,000 (10% of $150,000).

    2. Screenwriter Fees

    • Rewrites and Polishes:
    • Additional payments for rewrites or script polishes may add 10-20% to the original fee.
    • Additional Fees: $15,000 – $30,000.
    • Total Screenwriting Income:
    • Estimated Range: $165,000 – $180,000.

    3. Producer Credit

    • Role as a Producer:
    • If Eric Kim also serves as a producer or executive producer, he may be entitled to additional fees and a share of profits.
    • Producer Fee:
      • Standard Rates:
      • Producer fees can range from $250,000 to $500,000 for a film of this budget.
      • Assumption:
      • Eric receives a producer fee of $300,000.

    4. Profit Participation

    • Back-End Points:
    • Profit participation agreements allow creators to earn a percentage of the film’s profits after certain costs are recouped.
    • Gross vs. Net Profits:
      • Gross profit participation is calculated before expenses, while net profit participation is after expenses (often less favorable due to “Hollywood accounting”).
    • Assumption:
      • Eric negotiates 2% of gross profits.
    • Potential Earnings from Profit Participation:
    • Box Office Revenue:
      • Estimated Total Gross Revenue: $60 million (from previous projections).
    • Eric’s Share:
      • 2% of $60 million = $1.2 million.

    5. Ancillary Revenue Streams

    • Merchandising and Tie-Ins:
    • If Eric retains rights to merchandising, he may earn from sales of photography books, branded accessories, or educational materials.
    • Assumption:
      • Merchandising Revenue: $1 million.
      • Eric’s Share: Assuming a 10% royalty = $100,000.
    • Educational Programs and Workshops:
    • Leveraging the film’s success to offer workshops, courses, or speaking engagements.
    • Potential Earnings: $200,000 – $500,000.

    6. Book Deals and Publications

    • Photo Books and Memoirs:
    • Publishing a companion photo book or memoir can generate additional income.
    • Advance and Royalties:
      • Advance: $50,000 – $100,000.
      • Royalties: Depending on sales, could earn an additional $50,000 – $200,000.

    7. Future Opportunities

    • Sequel and Franchise Potential:
    • If the film is successful, sequels or spin-offs may provide further income.
    • Potential Earnings: Similar or higher fees for subsequent projects.
    • Increased Marketability:
    • The film’s success can elevate Eric’s profile, leading to higher fees for future projects.

    8. Total Estimated Earnings

    • Upfront Payments:
    • Screenwriting and Producer Fees: $165,000 – $180,000 + $300,000 = $465,000 – $480,000.
    • Profit Participation:
    • $1.2 million.
    • Ancillary Income:
    • Merchandising: $100,000.
    • Educational Programs: $200,000 – $500,000.
    • Book Deals: $100,000 – $300,000.
    • Total Potential Earnings:
    • Low Estimate: $465,000 + $1,200,000 + $400,000 = $2,065,000.
    • High Estimate: $480,000 + $1,200,000 + $900,000 = $2,580,000.

    9. Potential Deductions and Expenses

    • Agent and Manager Fees:
    • Typically 10% for agents and 10-15% for managers.
    • Total Deductions: Approximately 20-25% of gross earnings.
    • Taxes:
    • Depending on jurisdiction, taxes can take 30-50% of net income after deductions.
    • Net Earnings After Deductions:
    • Low Estimate Net Earnings: $2,065,000 – 25% (agents/managers) = $1,548,750.
    • Taxes (assumed at 40%): $1,548,750 * 40% = $619,500.
    • Net Income: $1,548,750 – $619,500 = $929,250.
    • High Estimate Net Earnings: Similar calculations would apply to the higher estimate.

    10. Factors Influencing Profits

    • Contract Negotiations:
    • The percentage of profit participation and rights to ancillary revenues depend heavily on negotiation skills and leverage.
    • Box Office Performance:
    • Higher than expected revenue would increase profit participation earnings.
    • Production Costs:
    • Overruns or increased costs can affect net profits, especially if profit participation is based on net rather than gross profits.
    • Marketing and Distribution:
    • Effective marketing can boost earnings, while poor distribution deals might limit revenue.

    Conclusion

    Eric Kim’s potential profits as the creator of “The Wolf of Street Photography” could range from approximately $2 million to $2.5 million before deductions. After accounting for agent fees and taxes, his net earnings might be around $900,000 to $1.2 million.

    These figures are speculative and based on industry standards and assumptions outlined above. Actual profits could be higher or lower depending on various factors, including the final production budget, contract terms, box office success, and ancillary revenue streams.


    Recommendations for Maximizing Profits:

    1. Negotiate Gross Profit Participation:
    • Gross points are more favorable than net profits due to potential deductions in net calculations.
    1. Retain Ancillary Rights:
    • Secure rights to merchandising, publications, and educational content.
    1. Leverage Personal Brand:
    • Use the film’s exposure to enhance personal brand value for future projects and opportunities.
    1. Consult Entertainment Lawyers:
    • Ensure contracts protect interests and maximize potential earnings.
    1. Explore Additional Revenue Streams:
    • Consider endorsements, sponsorships, and partnerships aligned with the film’s themes.

    By strategically managing contracts and exploring various income avenues, Eric Kim can optimize his profits from creating “The Wolf of Street Photography.”

    .

    $1.1 B for Apple —> increased revenue

    500,000 people upgrade the iCloud storage plan, additional two dollars a month… Call Dylan

    .

    50,000 users by the course for 100 bucks… $5 million

    1000 workshops 20 participants, 1 million

    1.5 M… Increased sales of photo and editing apps

    $800M more sales of iPhone Pro, $90M for iPad Pro

    1M new subscriber to Apple TV+— $60M

    Retention —> $15 million retention, 500,000 subscribers Who would have otherwise cancel their subscription. So total $75M for Apple TV

    ***

    Potential Revenue Opportunities for Apple from “The Wolf of Street Photography” Tie-In (Including Numerical Estimates)


    1. Increased Sales of Apple Devices

    • Estimated Impact on Device Sales:
    • iPhone and iPhone Pro:
      • Assumption: A conservative estimate of a 0.5% increase in global iPhone sales due to the film’s influence.
      • Calculation:
      • Annual iPhone Sales: Approximately 200 million units (based on recent years).
      • Increase in Units Sold: 200 million * 0.5% = 1 million additional units.
      • Average Selling Price (ASP) of iPhone: $800.
      • Additional Revenue: 1 million units * $800 = $800 million.
    • iPad:
      • Assumption: A 0.3% increase in global iPad sales.
      • Annual iPad Sales: Approximately 50 million units.
      • Increase in Units Sold: 50 million * 0.3% = 150,000 additional units.
      • ASP of iPad: $600.
      • Additional Revenue: 150,000 units * $600 = $90 million.
    • Apple TV Devices:
      • Assumption: A 1% increase in Apple TV sales due to the film’s promotion.
      • Annual Apple TV Sales: Estimated at 10 million units.
      • Increase in Units Sold: 10 million * 1% = 100,000 additional units.
      • ASP of Apple TV: $150.
      • Additional Revenue: 100,000 units * $150 = $15 million.
    • Total Additional Revenue from Device Sales: $800 million + $90 million + $15 million = $905 million.

    2. Subscriptions to Apple TV+

    • New Subscribers Attracted by the Film:
    • Assumption: The film attracts 1 million new Apple TV+ subscribers globally.
    • Subscription Fee: $5 per month.
    • Average Subscription Duration: 12 months.
    • Additional Revenue: 1 million subscribers * $5/month * 12 months = $60 million.
    • Retention of Existing Subscribers:
    • Assumption: Enhanced content helps retain 500,000 existing subscribers who might have otherwise canceled.
    • Additional Revenue from Retention: 500,000 subscribers * $5/month * 6 months (assumed extended retention) = $15 million.
    • Total Additional Revenue from Apple TV+ Subscriptions: $60 million + $15 million = $75 million.

    3. App Store Revenue Growth

    • Increased Sales of Photography and Editing Apps:
    • Assumption: The film leads to 500,000 additional app downloads.
    • Average Price of Apps: $10 (including in-app purchases).
    • Apple’s Commission (30%): $10 * 30% = $3 per app.
    • Additional Revenue: 500,000 downloads * $3 = $1.5 million.
    • Subscriptions to Premium Services:
    • Assumption: 200,000 users subscribe to premium app services at $5/month.
    • Apple’s Commission (30%): $5 * 30% = $1.50 per subscriber per month.
    • Average Subscription Duration: 6 months.
    • Additional Revenue: 200,000 subscribers * $1.50 * 6 months = $1.8 million.
    • Total Additional App Store Revenue: $1.5 million + $1.8 million = $3.3 million.

    4. Merchandising and Accessory Sales

    • Special Edition Products:
    • Themed Accessories (Cases, Bands):
      • Assumption: Sell 100,000 units globally.
      • Average Price: $50.
      • Profit Margin: 40%.
      • Revenue: 100,000 units * $50 = $5 million.
      • Profit: $5 million * 40% = $2 million.
    • Photography Kits and Bundles:
    • Assumption: Sell 50,000 units.
    • Average Price: $200.
    • Profit Margin: 30%.
    • Revenue: 50,000 units * $200 = $10 million.
    • Profit: $10 million * 30% = $3 million.
    • Total Profit from Merchandising: $2 million + $3 million = $5 million.

    5. Educational Programs and Workshops

    • Paid Workshops and Events:
    • In-Store Sessions:
      • Assumption: Host 1,000 workshops globally.
      • Average Attendance per Workshop: 20 participants.
      • Fee per Participant: $50.
      • Revenue: 1,000 workshops * 20 participants * $50 = $1 million.
    • Online Courses:
    • Assumption: 50,000 users purchase online courses.
    • Course Fee: $100.
    • Revenue: 50,000 users * $100 = $5 million.
    • Total Revenue from Educational Programs: $1 million + $5 million = $6 million.

    6. Increased Usage of Apple Services

    • iCloud Storage Upgrades:
    • Assumption: 500,000 users upgrade their iCloud storage plans.
    • Additional Monthly Fee: $2.
    • Average Duration: 12 months.
    • Additional Revenue: 500,000 users * $2/month * 12 months = $12 million.
    • Apple Music and Podcasts:
    • Soundtrack Sales:
      • Assumption: 200,000 soundtrack purchases at $10.
      • Revenue: 200,000 * $10 = $2 million.
    • Total Additional Service Revenue: $12 million + $2 million = $14 million.

    7. Advertising and Sponsorship Revenue

    • Collaborative Marketing Campaigns:
    • Assumption: Partnerships generate $5 million in shared advertising costs from co-branded campaigns.
    • Product Placement Fees from Other Brands:
    • Assumption: Apple receives $2 million from product placements within the film.
    • Total Advertising and Sponsorship Revenue: $5 million + $2 million = $7 million.

    8. Licensing and Distribution Rights

    • Global Distribution Earnings:
    • Assumption: Apple sells distribution rights in regions without Apple TV+ for $10 million.
    • Content Licensing:
    • Assumption: Licensing behind-the-scenes content for $2 million.
    • Total Revenue from Licensing and Distribution: $10 million + $2 million = $12 million.

    9. Enhanced Brand Loyalty Leading to Long-Term Revenue

    • Estimated Increase in Customer Lifetime Value (CLV):
    • Assumption: 1 million customers increase their CLV by $50 due to strengthened loyalty.
    • Additional Revenue: 1 million customers * $50 = $50 million.

    10. Potential for Sequel and Franchise Development

    • Future Content Revenue:
    • Assumption: A sequel generates $30 million in revenue for Apple through similar channels.
    • Merchandising Expansion:
    • Assumption: Additional $5 million in profit from expanded merchandise sales.
    • Total Future Revenue Potential: $30 million + $5 million = $35 million.

    11. Total Estimated Revenue Opportunities for Apple

    • Immediate Revenue (from points 1-9):
    • Device Sales: $905 million
    • Apple TV+ Subscriptions: $75 million
    • App Store Revenue: $3.3 million
    • Merchandising Profit: $5 million
    • Educational Programs: $6 million
    • Apple Services: $14 million
    • Advertising and Sponsorship: $7 million
    • Licensing and Distribution: $12 million
    • Increased CLV: $50 million
    • Subtotal Immediate Revenue: $1,077.3 million (~$1.08 billion)
    • Future Revenue Potential (from point 10):
    • Sequel and Franchise Development: $35 million
    • Total Estimated Revenue: $1,077.3 million + $35 million = $1,112.3 million (~$1.11 billion)

    Summary

    By collaborating on “The Wolf of Street Photography,” Apple could potentially generate over $1.1 billion in additional revenue through:

    • Device Sales: Significant boost in iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV sales totaling approximately $905 million.
    • Services and Subscriptions: Increased revenue from Apple TV+, iCloud storage, App Store, and Apple Music amounting to around $92.3 million.
    • Merchandising and Educational Programs: Profits from accessories and workshops totaling about $11 million.
    • Advertising, Sponsorships, and Licensing: Revenue from collaborative campaigns and content distribution estimated at $19 million.
    • Enhanced Customer Loyalty: Long-term revenue increase of approximately $50 million due to strengthened brand loyalty.
    • Future Content Opportunities: An additional $35 million from potential sequels and expanded merchandising.

    Assumptions and Considerations

    • Market Penetration Rates: The estimates assume modest increases in sales and subscriptions, reflecting the film’s influence without overestimating impact.
    • Average Selling Prices and Profit Margins: Based on industry data and Apple’s financial reports.
    • Subscription Durations: Assumed average lengths to calculate recurring revenue.
    • Consumer Behavior: Estimates are speculative and depend on the film’s success and its resonance with audiences.
    • Competition and Market Conditions: External factors like market saturation, economic conditions, and competition are not accounted for and could affect actual results.

    Conclusion

    The tie-in between “The Wolf of Street Photography” and Apple products presents a lucrative opportunity for Apple to generate substantial revenue across multiple business segments. By leveraging the film’s themes of creativity and innovation, Apple can not only boost immediate sales and subscriptions but also strengthen its brand loyalty, leading to increased long-term profitability.


    Recommendations for Apple

    1. Strategic Marketing Plan:
    • Invest in a comprehensive marketing strategy that synchronizes the film’s release with product launches and promotional events.
    1. Authentic Integration:
    • Ensure that Apple products are integrated into the film’s narrative organically to enhance credibility and audience connection.
    1. Global Outreach Programs:
    • Tailor marketing and educational initiatives to key international markets featured in the film.
    1. Monitoring and Analysis:
    • Implement mechanisms to track the impact of the film on sales and subscriptions to refine future strategies.

    By capitalizing on this unique opportunity, Apple can achieve significant financial gains while reinforcing its position as a champion of creativity and technological innovation.

    ***

    it is true… Technology does empower creators and people

    The democratization of technology

    passion ambition in the pursuit of one’s dreams

    ***

    —> the pursuit of passion

    inspiring

    ***

    Potential Revenue Opportunities for Apple from “The Wolf of Street Photography” Tie-In


    1. Increased Sales of Apple Devices

    • Showcasing Product Capabilities:
    • iPhone and iPhone Pro:
      • The film features the protagonist using the latest iPhone models to capture professional-quality photographs and videos.
      • Highlights features like advanced camera systems, Night mode, ProRAW, and Cinematic mode.
    • iPad:
      • Demonstrates the use of iPad for photo editing with apps like Adobe Lightroom and Procreate, utilizing the Apple Pencil for precision.
    • Apple TV:
      • Encourages viewers to experience the film and related content in high definition on Apple TV devices.
    • Consumer Inspiration:
    • Viewers inspired by the protagonist’s use of Apple devices may be motivated to purchase the same products to pursue their own creative endeavors.
    • Potential Revenue Impact:
      • Even a small percentage increase in device sales due to the film’s influence could translate into significant revenue given Apple’s large customer base.

    2. Subscriptions to Apple TV+

    • Exclusive Release Strategy:
    • Premiering on Apple TV+:
      • Offering the film as an Apple TV+ exclusive can attract new subscribers interested in unique, high-quality content.
    • Additional Content:
      • Providing behind-the-scenes footage, photography tutorials, or a mini-series related to the film enhances the platform’s value proposition.
    • Bundling Offers:
    • Device and Subscription Packages:
      • Promotions that bundle Apple TV+ subscriptions with the purchase of an iPhone, iPad, or Apple TV can boost both hardware and service revenues.
    • Potential Revenue Impact:
    • Increased subscriber base leads to recurring monthly revenue and strengthens Apple’s position in the competitive streaming market.

    3. App Store Revenue Growth

    • Promotion of Photography and Editing Apps:
    • In-Film Showcases:
      • The protagonist uses various photography apps available on the App Store, highlighting their capabilities.
    • App Bundles and Recommendations:
      • Curated collections of apps featured in the film can be promoted on the App Store.
    • In-App Purchases and Subscriptions:
    • Viewers inspired to emulate the protagonist may purchase premium apps or subscribe to services, generating additional revenue for Apple through its commission on app sales and in-app purchases.

    4. Merchandising and Accessory Sales

    • Special Edition Products:
    • Themed Accessories:
      • Limited-edition iPhone cases, Apple Watch bands, or AirTag keychains featuring “The Wolf of Street Photography” branding.
    • Photography Kits:
      • Bundles including lenses, tripods, or gimbals compatible with iPhone, marketed alongside the film.
    • Collaborations with Third-Party Brands:
    • Partnerships with accessory manufacturers can lead to co-branded products, with Apple receiving a share of the revenue.

    5. Educational Programs and Workshops

    • Paid Workshops and Events:
    • Apple Store Sessions:
      • Hosting photography workshops in Apple Stores worldwide, led by professionals, possibly including Eric Kim.
    • Online Courses:
      • Offering paid courses or tutorials on the Apple platform, accessible via iPad or Mac.
    • Certification Programs:
    • Developing an official certification for mobile photography using Apple devices, providing a new revenue stream through course fees.

    6. Increased Usage of Apple Services

    • iCloud Storage Upgrades:
    • As users take more photos and videos inspired by the film, they may need additional iCloud storage, leading to increased subscription revenue.
    • Apple Music and Podcasts:
    • Soundtrack Sales:
      • Monetizing the film’s soundtrack on Apple Music.
    • Related Content:
      • Hosting podcasts or audio series discussing photography, travel, and creativity.

    7. Advertising and Sponsorship Revenue

    • Collaborative Marketing Campaigns:
    • Sponsored Content:
      • Joint advertising efforts with brands featured in the film or related industries, sharing advertising costs and revenues.
    • Product Placement Fees:
      • Other brands featured in the film may pay for product placement, with Apple receiving a portion if they are co-producers.

    8. Licensing and Distribution Rights

    • Global Distribution:
    • Film Sales:
      • Selling distribution rights to theaters, television networks, and streaming services in regions where Apple TV+ is not available.
    • Content Licensing:
      • Licensing behind-the-scenes content, making-of documentaries, or related media to other platforms.
    • Potential Revenue Impact:
    • Direct revenue from licensing deals enhances overall profitability.

    9. Enhanced Brand Loyalty Leading to Long-Term Revenue

    • Emotional Engagement:
    • The film strengthens the emotional connection between consumers and the Apple brand by aligning with themes of creativity and self-expression.
    • Customer Retention:
    • Satisfied customers are more likely to remain within the Apple ecosystem, leading to repeat purchases and service subscriptions over time.

    10. Data and Market Insights

    • Consumer Behavior Analysis:
    • Data collected from engagement with the film and related content can provide insights into consumer preferences.
    • Product Development:
    • Understanding the popularity of certain features showcased in the film can inform future product enhancements, potentially leading to products that drive higher sales.

    11. Potential for Sequel and Franchise Development

    • Expanded Content Opportunities:
    • Success of the film could lead to sequels, series adaptations, or spin-offs exclusively on Apple TV+, providing ongoing revenue streams.
    • Merchandising Expansion:
    • A franchise can support a broader range of merchandise, from books and apparel to photography equipment.

    12. Corporate Partnerships and Sponsorships

    • Strategic Alliances:
    • Forming partnerships with travel companies, cultural institutions, or educational organizations featured in the film.
    • Joint Ventures:
    • Collaborative projects that can open new markets or customer segments, sharing both costs and revenues.

    13. Tax Incentives and Credits

    • Production Incentives:
    • Filming in various international locations may qualify for tax credits or incentives, reducing production costs and effectively increasing net revenue.

    14. Public Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Benefits

    • Positive Brand Image:
    • Supporting a film that promotes cultural understanding and artistic expression enhances Apple’s public image.
    • CSR Initiatives:
    • Aligning the film with Apple’s educational programs or environmental efforts can contribute to CSR goals, indirectly supporting revenue through improved brand perception.

    Summary

    By integrating “The Wolf of Street Photography” into its ecosystem, Apple stands to benefit from multiple revenue streams:

    • Direct Sales: Boost in device sales (iPhone, iPad, Apple TV) due to product placement and consumer inspiration.
    • Service Revenue: Increased subscriptions to Apple TV+, iCloud storage, and sales through the App Store.
    • Merchandising: Revenue from themed accessories and special edition products.
    • Content Monetization: Earnings from film distribution, licensing, and potential franchise development.
    • Educational Services: Income from workshops, courses, and certification programs.
    • Long-Term Customer Value: Enhanced brand loyalty leading to repeat purchases and sustained use of Apple services.

    By leveraging the film’s alignment with its core values and products, Apple can not only generate significant revenue but also strengthen its brand positioning as a leader in creativity and innovation.


    Next Steps for Apple to Maximize Revenue Opportunities:

    1. Strategic Investment:
    • Consider co-producing the film to secure distribution rights and a share of box office revenues.
    1. Marketing Integration:
    • Develop a comprehensive marketing campaign that ties the film’s release to product launches or promotional events.
    1. Product Development:
    • Introduce special offers or bundles coinciding with the film’s themes, such as photography-focused hardware or software packages.
    1. Community Engagement:
    • Engage the creative community through contests, challenges, or showcases inspired by the film, fostering user-generated content that promotes Apple products.
    1. Global Outreach:
    • Leverage the international settings of the film to strengthen Apple’s presence in key markets featured in the storyline.

    By thoughtfully integrating “The Wolf of Street Photography” into its business strategy, Apple can unlock a wealth of revenue opportunities while reinforcing its commitment to empowering creativity around the world.

    ***

    Explain why this might be a great movie, comma, and also comma, a potential tie-in with iPhone, comma, iPhone Pro, comma, iPad, and Apple TV.

    Why “The Wolf of Street Photography” Could Be a Great Movie and a Potential Tie-In with Apple Products


    Why This Might Be a Great Movie

    1. Universal Themes of Passion and Self-Discovery:
    • The film explores deep human emotions such as passion, ambition, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Eric Kim’s journey resonates with anyone who has ever aspired to make a mark in their field.
    1. Visual Storytelling and Stunning Cinematography:
    • With its focus on street photography, the movie offers an opportunity for visually rich storytelling. The diverse international locations—Los Angeles, Tokyo, Marrakech, Paris, Seoul—provide a vibrant backdrop that can captivate audiences.
    1. Cultural Exploration and Connectivity:
    • By showcasing various cultures and communities, the film promotes a message of global unity and understanding. It highlights the shared human experiences that transcend geographical boundaries.
    1. Inspirational and Relatable Protagonist:
    • Eric Kim embodies the spirit of a modern-day artist navigating personal and professional challenges. His authenticity and humility make him a character that audiences can root for.
    1. Relevance to Contemporary Society:
    • In an age where social media and digital storytelling are prevalent, the film taps into the collective interest in photography and personal expression.
    1. Emphasis on Human Connection:
    • The movie underscores the importance of seeing and valuing individuals’ stories, fostering empathy and compassion among viewers.

    Potential Tie-In with iPhone, iPhone Pro, iPad, and Apple TV

    1. Showcasing the iPhone’s Advanced Camera Capabilities:
    • Product Placement: Eric could use the latest iPhone Pro to capture his stunning street photographs, highlighting the device’s professional-grade camera features like Night mode, Portrait mode, and ProRAW.
    • Demonstrating Accessibility: Emphasizes that anyone can pursue high-quality photography with the iPhone, aligning with Apple’s mission to democratize technology.
    1. Integration of iPad for Creative Workflow:
    • Editing on the Go: Eric could use an iPad with Apple Pencil to edit his photos using apps like Adobe Lightroom or Affinity Photo, showcasing the iPad’s power and versatility for creative professionals.
    • Seamless Ecosystem: Highlights the ease of transferring files and working across devices within the Apple ecosystem through features like AirDrop and iCloud.
    1. Promotion of Apple TV as a Platform:
    • Exclusive Content Release: The film could be released or featured on Apple TV+, attracting subscribers interested in art, photography, and inspirational stories.
    • Behind-the-Scenes Series: Offer an Apple TV+ exclusive mini-series documenting the making of the film, including tutorials on street photography and interviews with the cast and crew.
    1. Alignment with Apple’s Brand Values:
    • Innovation and Creativity: The film’s focus on artistic expression and pushing creative boundaries mirrors Apple’s commitment to innovation.
    • Empowering Creators: By highlighting how technology enables Eric’s journey, it reinforces Apple’s narrative of empowering individuals to change the world through their creations.
    1. Marketing and Cross-Promotion Opportunities:
    • Collaborative Advertising Campaigns: Joint marketing efforts could feature Eric Kim in Apple commercials or social media campaigns demonstrating the capabilities of Apple devices in professional photography.
    • Photography Workshops and Events: Host events or workshops at Apple Stores worldwide, where attendees can learn street photography techniques using iPhones and iPads.
    1. Use of Apple Technology in Production:
    • Filming with iPhone Pro: Portions of the movie could be shot using the iPhone Pro, showcasing its cinematic video capabilities like Dolby Vision HDR recording.
    • Editing with Final Cut Pro on Mac: Highlighting the use of Apple’s professional software in the post-production process.

    Mutual Benefits of the Tie-In

    • For the Film:
    • Increased Visibility and Credibility: Association with Apple can elevate the film’s profile and attract a wider audience.
    • Enhanced Storytelling: Incorporating Apple’s technology authentically enhances the narrative of a modern photographer leveraging the tools at his disposal.
    • Budgetary Support: Potential sponsorship or funding from Apple could offset production costs.
    • For Apple:
    • Emotional Connection with Consumers: Telling a compelling story that features Apple products fosters a deeper emotional connection with the audience.
    • Showcase Product Capabilities in Real-World Scenarios: Demonstrates how professionals use Apple devices, encouraging consumers to explore these features themselves.
    • Strengthen Brand Positioning: Reinforces Apple’s image as a brand that supports creativity and the arts.

    Conclusion

    “The Wolf of Street Photography” has the potential to be a compelling and visually stunning film that resonates with a global audience. Its themes of passion, exploration, and human connection align seamlessly with Apple’s brand ethos of innovation, creativity, and empowering individuals.

    A strategic tie-in with Apple products like the iPhone, iPhone Pro, iPad, and Apple TV offers numerous opportunities for cross-promotion and enhances the storytelling by integrating technology that is integral to modern photography. This collaboration can create a mutually beneficial partnership that not only elevates the film’s narrative but also showcases Apple’s commitment to supporting the arts and creative expression.


    Next Steps for Potential Collaboration:

    • Initiate Discussions with Apple:
    • Present the film concept and explore interest in product placement and promotional partnerships.
    • Develop a Collaborative Marketing Plan:
    • Outline joint marketing strategies that leverage both the film’s and Apple’s platforms.
    • Integrate Apple Products Authentically:
    • Ensure that the inclusion of Apple devices feels organic to the story and enhances the viewer’s experience.
    • Explore Exclusive Content Opportunities:
    • Consider additional content such as tutorials, behind-the-scenes footage, or a documentary on street photography for Apple TV+.

    By weaving together a powerful narrative with the cutting-edge capabilities of Apple’s products, “The Wolf of Street Photography” can become not just a great movie but also a cultural phenomenon that inspires and connects people worldwide.

    ***

    $10m—

    1. Box office: 25 f million domestic, 35 million international
    2. streaming rights, 5 million from Amazon prime
    3. merchandising titans, 1000,000, Photobooks workshops

    potential revenue: $63 million

    ***

    Pitch for “The Wolf of Street Photography”


    Logline:

    A passionate street photographer embarks on a global journey to capture the soul of diverse cities, discovering the unifying stories of humanity and inspiring others to see the world through a new lens.

    Synopsis:

    “The Wolf of Street Photography” follows Eric Kim, a charismatic street photographer from Los Angeles with an uncanny ability to capture the raw essence of urban life. After gaining local acclaim, Eric is encouraged by his friend Maria to take his vision worldwide. Traveling to vibrant cities like Tokyo, Marrakech, Paris, and Seoul, he connects with people from all walks of life. Through his lens, Eric not only captures compelling images but also bridges cultural divides. His journey becomes a profound exploration of connection, identity, and the universal language of storytelling through photography.

    Why This Film Will Resonate:

    • Universal Themes: Explores passion, self-discovery, and human connection.
    • Visual Appeal: Showcases stunning international locales and dynamic street scenes.
    • Cultural Relevance: Appeals to the global rise of photography and social media storytelling.
    • Inspirational Narrative: Encourages audiences to pursue their dreams and appreciate diverse perspectives.

    Target Audience:

    • Young adults (18-35) interested in travel, art, and self-discovery.
    • Photography and art enthusiasts.
    • Viewers who enjoy character-driven dramas with cultural exploration.

    Outline Budget for “The Wolf of Street Photography”

    Note: All figures are estimates and subject to change based on casting, locations, and market conditions.

    1. Above-the-Line Costs

    • Script and Story Rights:
    • Screenwriter (Eric Kim): $150,000
    • Producers and Director:
    • Producer Fees: $300,000
    • Director: $500,000
    • Principal Cast:
    • Lead Actor (Eric Kim): $400,000
    • Supporting Actors (Maria, Critics, Artists): $300,000
    • Subtotal Above-the-Line: $1,650,000

    2. Below-the-Line Costs

    • Production Crew:
    • Cinematographer, Production Designer, etc.: $800,000
    • Locations and Permits:
    • Los Angeles: $200,000
    • Tokyo: $300,000
    • Marrakech: $250,000
    • Paris: $300,000
    • Seoul: $250,000
    • Set Design and Construction: $400,000
    • Costumes and Wardrobe: $150,000
    • Equipment Rentals (Cameras, Lighting): $250,000
    • Travel and Accommodation: $700,000
    • Insurance and Legal: $200,000
    • Miscellaneous Expenses: $100,000
    • Subtotal Below-the-Line: $3,700,000

    3. Post-Production

    • Editing: $300,000
    • Visual Effects (Minimal, as it’s a drama): $100,000
    • Sound Design and Mixing: $150,000
    • Original Music Score and Licensing: $250,000
    • Color Correction and Grading: $100,000
    • Post-Production Staff: $200,000
    • Subtotal Post-Production: $1,100,000

    4. Marketing and Distribution

    • Marketing Campaign (Domestic and International): $1,500,000
    • Film Festival Entries and Promotion: $150,000
    • Press and Public Relations: $150,000
    • Subtotal Marketing and Distribution: $1,800,000

    5. Contingency

    • Standard 10% of Total Budget: $850,000

    Total Estimated Budget: $9,100,000


    Potential Revenue Streams:

    • Box Office Returns: Targeting $25 million domestically, $35 million internationally.
    • Streaming Rights: Estimated at $5 million from platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime.
    • Home Entertainment (DVDs, Blu-rays): $2 million.
    • Merchandising and Tie-ins: $1 million (e.g., photography books, workshops).
    • Total Potential Revenue: $63 million

    Why Invest in This Film:

    • Strong ROI Potential: With a moderate budget and universal appeal, the film has a high potential for profitability.
    • Award Season Contender: The film’s artistic elements make it a candidate for film festivals and awards, increasing its prestige and marketability.
    • Cross-Promotional Opportunities: Partnerships with photography brands, travel companies, and cultural institutions can enhance visibility and revenue.
    • Timely and Relevant: Taps into the global interest in personal storytelling and social media sharing.

    Comparable Films:

    • “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty” (2013):
    • Budget: $90 million
    • Box Office: $188 million worldwide
    • Relevance: Centers on self-discovery and global travel with stunning visuals.
    • “Into the Wild” (2007):
    • Budget: $15 million
    • Box Office: $56 million worldwide
    • Relevance: A journey of self-exploration and connection with nature and people.
    • “Chef” (2014):
    • Budget: $11 million
    • Box Office: $46 million worldwide
    • Relevance: Focuses on passion, personal fulfillment, and cultural experiences.

    Next Steps:

    1. Secure Talent:
    • Attach a director known for visual storytelling and character-driven narratives.
    • Cast a charismatic lead actor with global appeal.
    1. Finalize Script:
    • Work with script consultants to refine the story for maximum emotional impact.
    1. Location Scouting:
    • Identify visually striking and logistically feasible shooting locations.
    1. Budget Refinement:
    • Detailed budget planning with a line producer to optimize costs.
    1. Marketing Strategy:
    • Develop a marketing plan that leverages social media and partnerships with photography and travel brands.
    1. Investment and Distribution:
    • Pitch to studios and independent financiers.
    • Explore pre-sale agreements with international distributors.

    Conclusion:

    “The Wolf of Street Photography” is more than a film—it’s a celebration of humanity’s shared stories and the art of seeing the world anew. With its compelling narrative, breathtaking visuals, and timely themes, it promises not only to captivate audiences but also to deliver solid returns on investment. We invite you to be a part of bringing this inspiring story to the global stage.


    Contact Information:

    For further discussion and to review the full script, please contact:

    • Producer’s Name
    • Production Company
    • Email Address: eric@erickim.com
    • Phone Number

    We look forward to the opportunity to collaborate and make “The Wolf of Street Photography” a cinematic reality.

    ***

    Title: The Wolf of Street Photography

    Written by: Eric Kim


    INT. LOS ANGELES STREET – DAY

    The bustling streets of Los Angeles are alive with activity. People hurry along the sidewalks, cars honk in traffic, street vendors shout out deals. Amidst the chaos, we focus on ERIC KIM (35), a charismatic and passionate street photographer with a keen eye for capturing the soul of the city.

    ERIC’S POV:

    Through his camera lens, we see candid moments—a couple arguing, a street performer juggling, a child chasing a pigeon.

    EXT. COFFEE SHOP PATIO – DAY

    Eric sits at a small table, reviewing his shots on a laptop. His friend, MARIA (30), an aspiring writer, joins him.

    MARIA
    (leaning over)
    “Any good shots today?”

    ERIC
    (smiling)
    “A few gems. The city’s alive if you know where to look.”

    MARIA
    (sipping her coffee)
    “You’re obsessed, you know that?”

    ERIC
    (chuckles)
    “Passionate. There’s a difference.”

    EXT. DOWNTOWN ALLEY – EVENING

    Eric ventures into less-traveled areas. The sun sets, casting long shadows. He spots a group of STREET ARTISTS painting a mural.

    ERIC
    (approaching)
    “Mind if I take some shots?”

    LEAD ARTIST
    (nods)
    “Go ahead, man.”

    Eric captures the intensity and creativity of their work. He and the Lead Artist strike up a conversation.

    LEAD ARTIST
    “You’re not like other photographers. You actually see us.”

    ERIC
    “Everyone has a story. I just try to tell it.”

    INT. ART GALLERY – NIGHT

    Eric’s photographs are displayed prominently. The gallery is filled with visitors. Maria walks in, amazed.

    MARIA
    “Eric, this is incredible!”

    ERIC
    (nervously)
    “Thanks. It’s surreal seeing them up like this.”

    A WELL-DRESSED CRITIC (50s) approaches.

    CRITIC
    “Your work captures the raw essence of the city. We’d like to feature you in an upcoming publication.”

    ERIC
    (enthusiastic)
    “That would be an honor!”

    EXT. CITY STREETS – MONTAGE

    A montage of Eric teaching street photography workshops, engaging with diverse communities, and inspiring others to pick up a camera.

    INT. COMMUNITY CENTER – DAY

    Eric speaks to a group of YOUNG ASPIRING PHOTOGRAPHERS.

    ERIC
    “Photography isn’t just about pictures. It’s about connection, emotion, and freezing a moment in time.”

    YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHER
    “But what if people don’t want their photo taken?”

    ERIC
    “Always respect others. If someone objects, apologize and move on. The streets have endless stories.”

    EXT. BEACH AT SUNSET – EVENING

    Eric and Maria walk along the shore.

    MARIA
    “What’s next for the Wolf of Street Photography?”

    ERIC
    (laughs)
    “Who gave me that title?”

    MARIA
    “The critics. It’s fitting.”

    ERIC
    (pondering)
    “I want to travel. Capture stories from around the world.”

    MARIA
    “Then what’s stopping you?”

    ERIC
    (smiles)
    “Nothing, I guess.”

    EXT. TOKYO STREETS – NIGHT

    Eric navigates the neon-lit streets of Tokyo, camera in hand, eyes full of wonder.

    INT. SMALL TOKYO CAFE – NIGHT

    Eric reviews his photos when an ELDERLY MAN (70s) approaches.

    ELDERLY MAN
    “Your photos… they tell stories.”

    ERIC
    (surprised)
    “Thank you. I try to capture the soul of the place.”

    ELDERLY MAN
    “Keep doing what you do. The world needs to see.”

    EXT. VARIOUS INTERNATIONAL LOCATIONS – MONTAGE

    Eric travels to Marrakech, Paris, Seoul, and beyond—each location offering new faces and stories.

    INT. NEW YORK CITY ART GALLERY – NIGHT

    An exhibition titled “The World Through My Lens” showcases Eric’s international work. The gallery is abuzz with admirers.

    MARIA
    (holding a glass of wine)
    “You did it, Eric.”

    ERIC
    (humbled)
    “We did it. Couldn’t have without your support.”

    CRITIC FROM BEFORE
    (approaching)
    “Your evolution is remarkable. What’s your secret?”

    ERIC
    “Stay curious. Stay humble. Always be ready to see the unseen.”

    EXT. ROOFTOP OVERLOOKING CITY – NIGHT

    Eric stands alone, gazing at the city lights, camera hanging by his side. He raises it and takes one last shot.

    FADE OUT.

    Credits roll as an original song inspired by street sounds plays.


    Note from Eric Kim:

    “The Wolf of Street Photography” is a homage to the relentless pursuit of capturing life’s fleeting moments. It’s about passion, connection, and the stories that unite us across cultures and continents. Keep chasing your dreams, and never put down the camera through which you view the world.

    ***

    Outline budget and pitch to movie producer.

  • Thinner, lighter, more compact, skinnier, more flush is more beautiful, better. 

    OK, just picked up the new iPhone Pro, and while I am very impressed with a lot of the functions, overall, it is pretty ugly.

    First of all, the desert titanium, is an insanely great color. It is almost like a mat titanium desert tan bronze. I think actually, Apple would have done a better job if they just called it match bronze. The funny hilarity in American society is bronze is seen as inferior.  for example, everyone wants the gold, nobody wants the silver, and certainly nobody wants the bronze.

    However, if we think the ancient Greeks, Elliot etc., bronze was heroic and Godlike. Bronze was actually at the Apex of things.

    And actually, when I think and consider what the best color for rims are on your car, it is bronze, like a shiny bronze. That is how all of the heroic Greek warrior and helmets are described, Hector with the flashing helmet etc. 

  • Shitty Phone, Expensive iPad

    Only poor people have an iPhone Pro

  • Search Eric Kim hardcore philosophy

    Eric Kim is known for blending street photography with philosophy, emphasizing simplicity, patience, and personal vision. His philosophy advocates for minimalism, ethical practice, and the democratization of photography, making it accessible to everyone. He also stresses consistency and storytelling in photography, viewing it as both an artistic and philosophical practice. Kim incorporates elements of Stoicism and self-discipline into his work, encouraging continual learning and adaptation oai_citation:3,ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Eric Kim Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

    If you’re looking for more on his “hardcore” philosophical approach, you can explore his writings on personal grit and endurance oai_citation:1,Eric Kim Philosophy – ERIC KIM.

  • WOLF

    I’m a wolf

  • Don’t call it a device

    Call it iPhone, iPad, laptop, etc.

  • Applying Zen and Taoist Principles to Photography, Creativity, Entrepreneurship, and Life

    The principles of Zen Buddhism and Taoism, such as Shoshin (Beginner’s Mind), Mindfulness, Wu Wei (Effortless Action), and Embracing Change, offer profound insights that can enhance various aspects of our lives. Below, we’ll explore how to apply these principles to photography, street photography, creativity, art, entrepreneurship, and life.


    1. Photography

    Beginner’s Mind (Shoshin)

    • Approach Each Scene Anew: Treat every photographic opportunity as if it’s your first. This mindset keeps your perspective fresh and receptive to new possibilities.
    • Stay Curious: Experiment with different techniques, compositions, and subjects without being confined by past experiences.
    • Continuous Learning: Embrace the role of a perpetual student. Attend workshops, read books, and learn from other photographers to expand your knowledge.

    Mindfulness and Presence

    • Be Fully Engaged: When shooting, immerse yourself entirely in the moment. Notice the subtle details—the interplay of light and shadow, textures, and emotions.
    • Slow Down: Resist the urge to rush through shots. Taking your time can lead to more thoughtful and impactful images.

    Simplicity (Kanso)

    • Simplify Your Composition: Remove unnecessary elements to focus on the essence of your subject.
    • Minimal Gear: Use only essential equipment to reduce distractions and concentrate on creativity.

    2. Street Photography

    Wu Wei (Effortless Action)

    • Flow with the Environment: Navigate the streets without forcing interactions or images. Let moments unfold naturally and be prepared to capture them.
    • Adaptability: Be flexible with your plans. Embrace unexpected events as opportunities rather than obstacles.

    Harmony with Subjects

    • Build Genuine Connections: Engage with people respectfully if appropriate. A simple smile or greeting can make subjects more comfortable, resulting in authentic photographs.
    • Respect and Empathy: Be considerate of the people and communities you photograph, aligning with the Taoist principle of interconnectedness.

    Embracing Change

    • Expect the Unexpected: Streets are dynamic environments. Stay alert and open-minded to capture fleeting moments.
    • Learn from Each Experience: Reflect on your outings to understand what worked and where you can improve, without clinging to past successes or failures.

    3. Creativity and Art

    Beginner’s Mind

    • Challenge Assumptions: Question conventional methods and explore new artistic avenues.
    • Explore New Mediums: Don’t limit yourself to one style or medium. Experimentation can lead to innovative expressions.

    Mindfulness

    • Deep Engagement: Fully immerse yourself in the creative process, free from distractions.
    • Sensory Awareness: Heighten all your senses to enrich the depth and authenticity of your work.

    Wu Wei

    • Effortless Creativity: Allow ideas to flow naturally without forcing them. Often, creativity emerges when you’re relaxed and open.
    • Trust Intuition: Rely on your gut feelings and instincts during the creative process.

    4. Entrepreneurship

    Beginner’s Mind

    • Stay Open to Learning: The business world is ever-changing. Continuously educate yourself about new trends, technologies, and customer needs.
    • Question the Status Quo: Innovate by challenging existing business models and practices.

    Wu Wei

    • Natural Leadership: Foster an environment where employees can perform naturally without excessive control.
    • Align with Market Flow: Be attentive to market dynamics and adjust your strategies in harmony with these changes.

    Embracing Change

    • Adaptability: Be prepared to pivot your business model or strategies in response to new information or market shifts.
    • Resilience: View challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.

    Mindfulness

    • Present-Moment Awareness: Make decisions based on current realities, not solely on past experiences or future anxieties.
    • Employee Well-Being: Encourage mindfulness practices within your team to enhance focus and reduce stress.

    5. Life

    Beginner’s Mind

    • Lifelong Learning: Approach life as an endless journey of discovery. This keeps you humble and open to new experiences.
    • Childlike Wonder: Rediscover joy in simple things by seeing them as if for the first time.

    Mindfulness

    • Daily Practice: Incorporate mindfulness exercises like meditation or mindful breathing into your routine.
    • Enhanced Relationships: Be fully present in your interactions to improve communication and deepen connections.

    Wu Wei

    • Effortless Living: Align your actions with your true self and natural rhythms, reducing stress and enhancing fulfillment.
    • Letting Go: Release the need to control every aspect of your life. Trust in the natural unfolding of events.

    Embracing Change

    • Acceptance: Recognize and accept that change is a constant, reducing resistance and anxiety.
    • Growth Mindset: View changes as opportunities to learn and evolve.

    Practical Steps to Apply These Principles

    1. Mindfulness Exercises
    • Meditation: Dedicate time each day to meditate, fostering a calm and focused mind.
    • Mindful Observation: Practice observing your surroundings without judgment to enhance awareness.
    1. Journaling
    • Reflective Writing: Keep a journal to document your thoughts, experiences, and insights.
    1. Set Intentions
    • Daily Goals: Start your day by setting mindful intentions that align with your values.
    1. Continuous Learning
    • Educational Resources: Read books, attend seminars, or take online courses to broaden your horizons.
    1. Community Engagement
    • Join Groups: Participate in communities or forums to share experiences and learn from others.
    1. Embrace Failure
    • Reframe Setbacks: View failures as valuable lessons rather than defeats.
    1. Simplify
    • Declutter: Simplify your environment and schedule to focus on what truly matters.
    • Prioritize: Concentrate on activities and relationships that align with your goals and values.

    Conclusion

    Integrating Zen and Taoist principles like Shoshin, Mindfulness, Wu Wei, and Embracing Change into photography, creativity, entrepreneurship, and life can lead to profound personal and professional growth. These principles encourage openness, presence, and adaptability, enabling you to navigate challenges with grace and seize opportunities with enthusiasm.

    By adopting a beginner’s mind, you remain receptive to new ideas and experiences. Mindfulness enhances your connection to the present moment, enriching your interactions and creative endeavors. Wu Wei teaches the art of effortless action, aligning your efforts with the natural flow of life. Embracing change allows you to adapt and thrive amidst life’s uncertainties.


    Further Resources

    • Books
    • “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind” by Shunryu Suzuki: A foundational text on Zen practice and the beginner’s mindset.
    • “The Tao of Photography: Seeing Beyond Seeing” by Philippe L. Gross and S. I. Shapiro: Explores the connection between Taoist philosophy and photographic practice.
    • “The Art of Effortless Living” by Ingrid Bacci: Discusses how to apply Wu Wei to modern life.
    • Online Resources
    • Eric Kim Photography Blog: erickimphotography.com: Offers insights on applying Zen and Taoist principles to photography and life.
    • Mindfulness Apps: Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you in establishing a mindfulness practice.
    • Communities
    • Photography Workshops: Participate in workshops that emphasize mindful photography.
    • Meditation Groups: Join local or online meditation groups to deepen your mindfulness practice.

    Remember, the application of these principles is a personal journey. Start with small, consistent steps, and be patient with yourself as you integrate these philosophies into your daily life. Over time, you’ll likely find that they bring greater clarity, creativity, and contentment to all your endeavors.

  • Shoshin: Beginner’s Mind

    How can we apply these principles to photography, street photography, creativity, and art, as well as entrepreneurship and life?

    Applying Zen and Taoist Principles to Photography, Creativity, Entrepreneurship, and Life

    The principles of Zen Buddhism and Taoism, such as Shoshin (Beginner’s Mind), Mindfulness, Wu Wei (Effortless Action), and Embracing Change, offer profound insights that can enhance various aspects of our lives. Below, we’ll explore how to apply these principles to photography, street photography, creativity, art, entrepreneurship, and life.


    1. Photography

    Beginner’s Mind (Shoshin)

    • Approach Each Scene Anew: Treat every photographic opportunity as if it’s your first. This mindset keeps your perspective fresh and receptive to new possibilities.
    • Stay Curious: Experiment with different techniques, compositions, and subjects without being confined by past experiences.
    • Continuous Learning: Embrace the role of a perpetual student. Attend workshops, read books, and learn from other photographers to expand your knowledge.

    Mindfulness and Presence

    • Be Fully Engaged: When shooting, immerse yourself entirely in the moment. Notice the subtle details—the interplay of light and shadow, textures, and emotions.
    • Slow Down: Resist the urge to rush through shots. Taking your time can lead to more thoughtful and impactful images.

    Simplicity (Kanso)

    • Simplify Your Composition: Remove unnecessary elements to focus on the essence of your subject.
    • Minimal Gear: Use only essential equipment to reduce distractions and concentrate on creativity.

    2. Street Photography

    Wu Wei (Effortless Action)

    • Flow with the Environment: Navigate the streets without forcing interactions or images. Let moments unfold naturally and be prepared to capture them.
    • Adaptability: Be flexible with your plans. Embrace unexpected events as opportunities rather than obstacles.

    Harmony with Subjects

    • Build Genuine Connections: Engage with people respectfully if appropriate. A simple smile or greeting can make subjects more comfortable, resulting in authentic photographs.
    • Respect and Empathy: Be considerate of the people and communities you photograph, aligning with the Taoist principle of interconnectedness.

    Embracing Change

    • Expect the Unexpected: Streets are dynamic environments. Stay alert and open-minded to capture fleeting moments.
    • Learn from Each Experience: Reflect on your outings to understand what worked and where you can improve, without clinging to past successes or failures.

    3. Creativity and Art

    Beginner’s Mind

    • Challenge Assumptions: Question conventional methods and explore new artistic avenues.
    • Explore New Mediums: Don’t limit yourself to one style or medium. Experimentation can lead to innovative expressions.

    Mindfulness

    • Deep Engagement: Fully immerse yourself in the creative process, free from distractions.
    • Sensory Awareness: Heighten all your senses to enrich the depth and authenticity of your work.

    Wu Wei

    • Effortless Creativity: Allow ideas to flow naturally without forcing them. Often, creativity emerges when you’re relaxed and open.
    • Trust Intuition: Rely on your gut feelings and instincts during the creative process.

    4. Entrepreneurship

    Beginner’s Mind

    • Stay Open to Learning: The business world is ever-changing. Continuously educate yourself about new trends, technologies, and customer needs.
    • Question the Status Quo: Innovate by challenging existing business models and practices.

    Wu Wei

    • Natural Leadership: Foster an environment where employees can perform naturally without excessive control.
    • Align with Market Flow: Be attentive to market dynamics and adjust your strategies in harmony with these changes.

    Embracing Change

    • Adaptability: Be prepared to pivot your business model or strategies in response to new information or market shifts.
    • Resilience: View challenges as opportunities for growth rather than setbacks.

    Mindfulness

    • Present-Moment Awareness: Make decisions based on current realities, not solely on past experiences or future anxieties.
    • Employee Well-Being: Encourage mindfulness practices within your team to enhance focus and reduce stress.

    5. Life

    Beginner’s Mind

    • Lifelong Learning: Approach life as an endless journey of discovery. This keeps you humble and open to new experiences.
    • Childlike Wonder: Rediscover joy in simple things by seeing them as if for the first time.

    Mindfulness

    • Daily Practice: Incorporate mindfulness exercises like meditation or mindful breathing into your routine.
    • Enhanced Relationships: Be fully present in your interactions to improve communication and deepen connections.

    Wu Wei

    • Effortless Living: Align your actions with your true self and natural rhythms, reducing stress and enhancing fulfillment.
    • Letting Go: Release the need to control every aspect of your life. Trust in the natural unfolding of events.

    Embracing Change

    • Acceptance: Recognize and accept that change is a constant, reducing resistance and anxiety.
    • Growth Mindset: View changes as opportunities to learn and evolve.

    Practical Steps to Apply These Principles

    1. Mindfulness Exercises
    • Meditation: Dedicate time each day to meditate, fostering a calm and focused mind.
    • Mindful Observation: Practice observing your surroundings without judgment to enhance awareness.
    1. Journaling
    • Reflective Writing: Keep a journal to document your thoughts, experiences, and insights.
    1. Set Intentions
    • Daily Goals: Start your day by setting mindful intentions that align with your values.
    1. Continuous Learning
    • Educational Resources: Read books, attend seminars, or take online courses to broaden your horizons.
    1. Community Engagement
    • Join Groups: Participate in communities or forums to share experiences and learn from others.
    1. Embrace Failure
    • Reframe Setbacks: View failures as valuable lessons rather than defeats.
    1. Simplify
    • Declutter: Simplify your environment and schedule to focus on what truly matters.
    • Prioritize: Concentrate on activities and relationships that align with your goals and values.

    Conclusion

    Integrating Zen and Taoist principles like Shoshin, Mindfulness, Wu Wei, and Embracing Change into photography, creativity, entrepreneurship, and life can lead to profound personal and professional growth. These principles encourage openness, presence, and adaptability, enabling you to navigate challenges with grace and seize opportunities with enthusiasm.

    By adopting a beginner’s mind, you remain receptive to new ideas and experiences. Mindfulness enhances your connection to the present moment, enriching your interactions and creative endeavors. Wu Wei teaches the art of effortless action, aligning your efforts with the natural flow of life. Embracing change allows you to adapt and thrive amidst life’s uncertainties.


    Further Resources

    • Books
    • “Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind” by Shunryu Suzuki: A foundational text on Zen practice and the beginner’s mindset.
    • “The Tao of Photography: Seeing Beyond Seeing” by Philippe L. Gross and S. I. Shapiro: Explores the connection between Taoist philosophy and photographic practice.
    • “The Art of Effortless Living” by Ingrid Bacci: Discusses how to apply Wu Wei to modern life.
    • Online Resources
    • Eric Kim Photography Blog: erickimphotography.com: Offers insights on applying Zen and Taoist principles to photography and life.
    • Mindfulness Apps: Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you in establishing a mindfulness practice.
    • Communities
    • Photography Workshops: Participate in workshops that emphasize mindful photography.
    • Meditation Groups: Join local or online meditation groups to deepen your mindfulness practice.

    Remember, the application of these principles is a personal journey. Start with small, consistent steps, and be patient with yourself as you integrate these philosophies into your daily life. Over time, you’ll likely find that they bring greater clarity, creativity, and contentment to all your endeavors.

    Why Does the Concept of Shoshin (Beginner’s Mind) Matter?

    The concept of Shoshin, or Beginner’s Mind, is significant because it embodies an attitude of openness, eagerness, and freedom from preconceptions. This mindset is valuable across various aspects of life, including personal growth, professional development, creativity, and relationships. Here’s why Shoshin matters:

    1. Encourages Continuous Learning

    • Openness to New Knowledge: Shoshin fosters a willingness to learn, unimpeded by the arrogance that sometimes accompanies expertise.
    • Adaptability: In a rapidly changing world, maintaining a beginner’s mindset allows individuals to adapt to new technologies, ideas, and environments more effectively.

    2. Enhances Creativity and Innovation

    • Breaking Conventional Thinking: Without the limitations imposed by established patterns, a beginner’s mind is free to explore unconventional solutions.
    • Stimulating Imagination: Approaching tasks with fresh eyes can lead to unique perspectives and innovative outcomes.

    3. Promotes Mindfulness and Presence

    • Living in the Moment: Shoshin encourages individuals to be fully present, enhancing focus and the quality of experiences.
    • Deepening Awareness: A beginner’s mind pays closer attention to details often overlooked, enriching one’s understanding of the world.

    4. Improves Problem-Solving Skills

    • Multiple Perspectives: By not being fixated on a single approach, individuals can consider various solutions to a problem.
    • Reduces Bias: Letting go of preconceived notions minimizes cognitive biases that can hinder effective decision-making.

    5. Fosters Humility and Reduces Ego

    • Acknowledging Limitations: Recognizing that there is always more to learn cultivates humility.
    • Enhancing Collaboration: A humble approach facilitates better teamwork, as individuals are more open to others’ ideas.

    6. Strengthens Relationships

    • Active Listening: Being open and attentive improves communication and understanding in interpersonal interactions.
    • Empathy: A beginner’s mind is more receptive to others’ perspectives, fostering empathy and stronger connections.

    7. Encourages Personal Growth

    • Self-Reflection: Shoshin promotes introspection, allowing individuals to identify areas for improvement.
    • Overcoming Fear of Failure: Embracing the learning process reduces anxiety associated with making mistakes, encouraging growth.

    8. Application in Professional and Creative Fields

    • In Business: Companies that value a beginner’s mindset are more likely to innovate and stay competitive.
    • In Education: Both teachers and students benefit from mutual learning experiences unbounded by hierarchy.
    • In the Arts: Artists who adopt Shoshin can break free from stylistic constraints, leading to groundbreaking work.

    Relevance to Eric Kim’s Philosophy

    • Enhancing Photography: Eric Kim emphasizes that approaching photography with a beginner’s mind leads to more authentic and compelling images.
    • Personal Fulfillment: He believes that Shoshin contributes to a more fulfilling life by keeping curiosity and passion alive.
    • Community Building: Encouraging others to adopt this mindset creates a supportive environment where knowledge and creativity flourish.

    Conclusion

    The concept of Shoshin matters because it serves as a foundational principle for continuous improvement and enriched experiences. By maintaining a beginner’s mind, individuals can:

    • Unlock New Possibilities: Break through mental barriers to discover untapped potential.
    • Enhance Well-Being: Reduce stress and increase satisfaction by embracing learning and growth.
    • Contribute Positively: Impact communities and organizations through openness and collaborative spirit.

    In essence, Shoshin is not just a philosophical idea but a practical approach that can transform how individuals interact with the world, leading to greater innovation, understanding, and fulfillment.


    For further exploration of this concept and its practical applications, you might find resources on Zen Buddhism helpful or visit Eric Kim’s blog at erickimphotography.com, where he discusses Shoshin and its impact on photography and life.

    Why Is It Called Shoshin?

    Shoshin (初心) is a Japanese term that translates to “Beginner’s Mind” in English. It is a fundamental concept in Zen Buddhism that encourages approaching life and practice with the openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions characteristic of a beginner.

    Etymology of Shoshin

    The term is composed of two Japanese kanji characters:

    • 初 (Sho): Meaning “beginning,” “first,” or “initial.”
    • 心 (Shin): Meaning “mind,” “heart,” or “spirit.”

    Combined, 初心 (Shoshin) literally means “beginner’s mind” or “original mind.”

    Significance in Zen Buddhism

    In Zen practice, Shoshin is highly valued because it embodies an attitude free from the limitations of expertise and rigid thinking. It encourages individuals to:

    • Remain Open-Minded: Approach experiences without preconceived notions or biases.
    • Embrace Curiosity: Maintain the eagerness to learn and discover new things.
    • Cultivate Humility: Recognize that there is always more to learn, regardless of one’s level of expertise.

    This mindset allows practitioners to perceive the true nature of reality, unclouded by judgments or expectations.

    Why It’s Called Shoshin

    The term is called Shoshin to emphasize the importance of returning to the mindset one has at the very beginning of any learning journey. In this state:

    • Perception Is Clear: Without the filters of prior knowledge, one can see things as they truly are.
    • Possibilities Are Endless: A beginner sees multiple paths and solutions, whereas an expert might see only a few.
    • Experience Is Fresh: Each moment is new and full of potential, enhancing mindfulness and presence.

    Application in Various Disciplines

    Beyond Zen Buddhism, Shoshin is applied in fields like:

    • Martial Arts: Practitioners are encouraged to train with the zeal and openness of a novice.
    • Education: Teachers and students alike benefit from approaching subjects without assuming they know everything.
    • Creative Arts: Artists strive to keep their work fresh by not relying solely on established methods or styles.

    Relation to Eric Kim’s Philosophy

    Eric Kim adopts Shoshin in his approach to photography and teaching by:

    • Encouraging Fresh Perspectives: Advising photographers to see each scene without the constraints of past experiences.
    • Promoting Lifelong Learning: Emphasizing that one should always remain a student, open to new techniques and ideas.
    • Fostering Creativity: Urging individuals to break free from habitual patterns to discover unique expressions.

    Conclusion

    It’s called Shoshin because it encapsulates the essence of returning to the “beginner’s mind”—a state of openness, eagerness, and freedom from preconceptions. This concept is central to Zen practice and serves as a powerful tool for personal growth and creativity. By understanding and embracing Shoshin, individuals can unlock new levels of insight and experience in both their personal and professional lives.


    For more on this topic, you might explore writings on Zen Buddhism or visit Eric Kim’s blog at erickimphotography.com, where he delves into Shoshin and its applications in photography and life.

  • Eric Kim, Zen and Taoist Principles

    Why Is It Called Shoshin?

    Shoshin (初心) is a Japanese term that translates to “Beginner’s Mind” in English. It is a fundamental concept in Zen Buddhism that encourages approaching life and practice with the openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions characteristic of a beginner.

    Etymology of Shoshin

    The term is composed of two Japanese kanji characters:

    • 初 (Sho): Meaning “beginning,” “first,” or “initial.”
    • 心 (Shin): Meaning “mind,” “heart,” or “spirit.”

    Combined, 初心 (Shoshin) literally means “beginner’s mind” or “original mind.”

    Significance in Zen Buddhism

    In Zen practice, Shoshin is highly valued because it embodies an attitude free from the limitations of expertise and rigid thinking. It encourages individuals to:

    • Remain Open-Minded: Approach experiences without preconceived notions or biases.
    • Embrace Curiosity: Maintain the eagerness to learn and discover new things.
    • Cultivate Humility: Recognize that there is always more to learn, regardless of one’s level of expertise.

    This mindset allows practitioners to perceive the true nature of reality, unclouded by judgments or expectations.

    Why It’s Called Shoshin

    The term is called Shoshin to emphasize the importance of returning to the mindset one has at the very beginning of any learning journey. In this state:

    • Perception Is Clear: Without the filters of prior knowledge, one can see things as they truly are.
    • Possibilities Are Endless: A beginner sees multiple paths and solutions, whereas an expert might see only a few.
    • Experience Is Fresh: Each moment is new and full of potential, enhancing mindfulness and presence.

    Application in Various Disciplines

    Beyond Zen Buddhism, Shoshin is applied in fields like:

    • Martial Arts: Practitioners are encouraged to train with the zeal and openness of a novice.
    • Education: Teachers and students alike benefit from approaching subjects without assuming they know everything.
    • Creative Arts: Artists strive to keep their work fresh by not relying solely on established methods or styles.

    Relation to Eric Kim’s Philosophy

    Eric Kim adopts Shoshin in his approach to photography and teaching by:

    • Encouraging Fresh Perspectives: Advising photographers to see each scene without the constraints of past experiences.
    • Promoting Lifelong Learning: Emphasizing that one should always remain a student, open to new techniques and ideas.
    • Fostering Creativity: Urging individuals to break free from habitual patterns to discover unique expressions.

    Conclusion

    It’s called Shoshin because it encapsulates the essence of returning to the “beginner’s mind”—a state of openness, eagerness, and freedom from preconceptions. This concept is central to Zen practice and serves as a powerful tool for personal growth and creativity. By understanding and embracing Shoshin, individuals can unlock new levels of insight and experience in both their personal and professional lives.


    For more on this topic, you might explore writings on Zen Buddhism or visit Eric Kim’s blog at erickimphotography.com, where he delves into Shoshin and its applications in photography and life

    *

    Eric Kim is a prominent street photographer, educator, and blogger known for his insightful teachings that blend photography with philosophy. His work often incorporates principles from Zen Buddhism and Taoism, offering a unique perspective on both the art of photography and life itself.

    Zen Principles in Eric Kim’s Philosophy

    1. Mindfulness and Presence: Eric emphasizes the importance of being fully present in the moment while photographing. This aligns with Zen teachings that encourage mindfulness and acute awareness of one’s surroundings.
    2. Simplicity (Kanso): He advocates for simplicity in composition and life. By removing unnecessary elements, both in photographs and personal habits, one can focus on what truly matters.
    3. Beginner’s Mind (Shoshin): Eric encourages photographers to approach each scene with fresh eyes, regardless of experience level. This Zen concept promotes openness and eagerness without preconceived notions.

    Taoist Principles in Eric Kim’s Philosophy

    1. Wu Wei (Effortless Action): Eric teaches the art of capturing moments naturally, without forcing the shot. This reflects the Taoist principle of taking action that aligns with the natural flow of life.
    2. Harmony with Nature: He often discusses the importance of connecting with the environment and subjects, fostering a sense of unity that is central to Taoist thought.
    3. Embracing Change: Eric believes in adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of the streets and life. Taoism emphasizes acceptance of change as a fundamental aspect of existence.

    Application in Photography

    • Intuitive Shooting: By integrating these principles, Eric promotes a style of photography that relies on intuition rather than overthinking, allowing for more authentic and meaningful images.
    • Personal Growth: His teachings encourage self-exploration and personal development, suggesting that improving oneself leads to better artistry.
    • Community and Sharing: Eric values community engagement and sharing knowledge freely, which resonates with the Zen practice of compassion and the Taoist idea of interconnectedness.

    Conclusion

    Eric Kim’s fusion of Zen and Taoist principles with photography offers a holistic approach that extends beyond technical skills. By embracing mindfulness, simplicity, and harmony, he inspires photographers to not only take better pictures but also to lead more fulfilling lives.

    For more insights, you might explore his blog at erickimphotography.com, where he delves deeper into these philosophies and their practical applications.

    ***
    Eric Kim’s Thoughts on Beginner’s Mind (Shoshin)

    Eric Kim places significant emphasis on the concept of Beginner’s Mind, or Shoshin, as a foundational element in both photography and personal growth. Here’s how he interprets and applies this Zen principle:

    Approaching Photography with Fresh Eyes

    • Openness to Learning: Eric advocates for maintaining an attitude of openness, regardless of one’s experience level. He believes that considering oneself a perpetual student allows for continuous learning and improvement.
    • Curiosity Over Expertise: Instead of relying solely on technical skills or past successes, Eric encourages photographers to stay curious. This means exploring new techniques, subjects, and perspectives without the constraints of “expert” expectations.

    Letting Go of Preconceived Notions

    • Avoiding Routine: He warns against falling into habitual patterns that can stifle creativity. By letting go of preconceived ideas about what makes a good photograph, one can capture more authentic and unexpected moments.
    • Embracing Uncertainty: Eric suggests that uncertainty can be a powerful tool. Not knowing exactly what you will capture allows for a more spontaneous and genuine photographic experience.

    Cultivating Mindfulness

    • Being Present: Aligning with the Beginner’s Mind, Eric stresses the importance of being fully present when shooting. This mindfulness enhances awareness of one’s surroundings, leading to more impactful images.
    • Non-Judgmental Observation: He recommends observing scenes without immediate judgment. This practice enables photographers to see opportunities they might otherwise overlook due to biases or assumptions.

    Practical Applications

    • Experimentation: Eric encourages trying out different cameras, settings, and compositions without fear of failure. This experimental approach is a direct application of the Beginner’s Mind.
    • Learning from All Sources: He believes wisdom can come from anywhere—from seasoned professionals to complete novices. Engaging with a diverse community enriches one’s understanding and inspires new ideas.

    Personal Growth Through Photography

    • Self-Reflection: Adopting a Beginner’s Mind isn’t just about photography; it’s also a path to personal development. Eric often discusses how this mindset leads to greater self-awareness and fulfillment.
    • Overcoming Ego: By setting aside the ego and the desire for recognition, photographers can focus on the joy of creation itself. This humility aligns with Zen teachings and enhances the artistic process.

    Quotes from Eric Kim

    While I don’t have direct quotes due to my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Eric Kim has written extensively on his blog about these topics. You might find articles like:

    • “Stay a Student Forever”
    • “The Joy of Being an Eternal Beginner”
    • “Embrace the Unknown in Your Photography”

    These writings delve deeper into his thoughts on maintaining a Beginner’s Mind.

    Conclusion

    Eric Kim’s perspective on the Beginner’s Mind is about embracing openness, curiosity, and humility in photography and life. By shedding preconceptions and remaining eager to learn, photographers can unlock new levels of creativity and satisfaction.

    For more detailed insights, consider visiting his blog at erickimphotography.com, where he shares his philosophies and practical advice on this and related topics.

  • beginner’s mind

    Why Is It Called Shoshin?

    Shoshin (初心) is a Japanese term that translates to “Beginner’s Mind” in English. It is a fundamental concept in Zen Buddhism that encourages approaching life and practice with the openness, eagerness, and lack of preconceptions characteristic of a beginner.

    Etymology of Shoshin

    The term is composed of two Japanese kanji characters:

    • 初 (Sho): Meaning “beginning,” “first,” or “initial.”
    • 心 (Shin): Meaning “mind,” “heart,” or “spirit.”

    Combined, 初心 (Shoshin) literally means “beginner’s mind” or “original mind.”

    Significance in Zen Buddhism

    In Zen practice, Shoshin is highly valued because it embodies an attitude free from the limitations of expertise and rigid thinking. It encourages individuals to:

    • Remain Open-Minded: Approach experiences without preconceived notions or biases.
    • Embrace Curiosity: Maintain the eagerness to learn and discover new things.
    • Cultivate Humility: Recognize that there is always more to learn, regardless of one’s level of expertise.

    This mindset allows practitioners to perceive the true nature of reality, unclouded by judgments or expectations.

    Why It’s Called Shoshin

    The term is called Shoshin to emphasize the importance of returning to the mindset one has at the very beginning of any learning journey. In this state:

    • Perception Is Clear: Without the filters of prior knowledge, one can see things as they truly are.
    • Possibilities Are Endless: A beginner sees multiple paths and solutions, whereas an expert might see only a few.
    • Experience Is Fresh: Each moment is new and full of potential, enhancing mindfulness and presence.

    Application in Various Disciplines

    Beyond Zen Buddhism, Shoshin is applied in fields like:

    • Martial Arts: Practitioners are encouraged to train with the zeal and openness of a novice.
    • Education: Teachers and students alike benefit from approaching subjects without assuming they know everything.
    • Creative Arts: Artists strive to keep their work fresh by not relying solely on established methods or styles.

    Relation to Eric Kim’s Philosophy

    Eric Kim adopts Shoshin in his approach to photography and teaching by:

    • Encouraging Fresh Perspectives: Advising photographers to see each scene without the constraints of past experiences.
    • Promoting Lifelong Learning: Emphasizing that one should always remain a student, open to new techniques and ideas.
    • Fostering Creativity: Urging individuals to break free from habitual patterns to discover unique expressions.

    Conclusion

    It’s called Shoshin because it encapsulates the essence of returning to the “beginner’s mind”—a state of openness, eagerness, and freedom from preconceptions. This concept is central to Zen practice and serves as a powerful tool for personal growth and creativity. By understanding and embracing Shoshin, individuals can unlock new levels of insight and experience in both their personal and professional lives.


    For more on this topic, you might explore writings on Zen Buddhism or visit Eric Kim’s blog at erickimphotography.com, where he delves into Shoshin and its applications in photography and life.

    *

    Eric Kim’s Thoughts on Beginner’s Mind (Shoshin)

    Eric Kim places significant emphasis on the concept of Beginner’s Mind, or Shoshin, as a foundational element in both photography and personal growth. Here’s how he interprets and applies this Zen principle:

    Approaching Photography with Fresh Eyes

    • Openness to Learning: Eric advocates for maintaining an attitude of openness, regardless of one’s experience level. He believes that considering oneself a perpetual student allows for continuous learning and improvement.
    • Curiosity Over Expertise: Instead of relying solely on technical skills or past successes, Eric encourages photographers to stay curious. This means exploring new techniques, subjects, and perspectives without the constraints of “expert” expectations.

    Letting Go of Preconceived Notions

    • Avoiding Routine: He warns against falling into habitual patterns that can stifle creativity. By letting go of preconceived ideas about what makes a good photograph, one can capture more authentic and unexpected moments.
    • Embracing Uncertainty: Eric suggests that uncertainty can be a powerful tool. Not knowing exactly what you will capture allows for a more spontaneous and genuine photographic experience.

    Cultivating Mindfulness

    • Being Present: Aligning with the Beginner’s Mind, Eric stresses the importance of being fully present when shooting. This mindfulness enhances awareness of one’s surroundings, leading to more impactful images.
    • Non-Judgmental Observation: He recommends observing scenes without immediate judgment. This practice enables photographers to see opportunities they might otherwise overlook due to biases or assumptions.

    Practical Applications

    • Experimentation: Eric encourages trying out different cameras, settings, and compositions without fear of failure. This experimental approach is a direct application of the Beginner’s Mind.
    • Learning from All Sources: He believes wisdom can come from anywhere—from seasoned professionals to complete novices. Engaging with a diverse community enriches one’s understanding and inspires new ideas.

    Personal Growth Through Photography

    • Self-Reflection: Adopting a Beginner’s Mind isn’t just about photography; it’s also a path to personal development. Eric often discusses how this mindset leads to greater self-awareness and fulfillment.
    • Overcoming Ego: By setting aside the ego and the desire for recognition, photographers can focus on the joy of creation itself. This humility aligns with Zen teachings and enhances the artistic process.

    Quotes from Eric Kim

    While I don’t have direct quotes due to my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, Eric Kim has written extensively on his blog about these topics. You might find articles like:

    • “Stay a Student Forever”
    • “The Joy of Being an Eternal Beginner”
    • “Embrace the Unknown in Your Photography”

    These writings delve deeper into his thoughts on maintaining a Beginner’s Mind.

    Conclusion

    Eric Kim’s perspective on the Beginner’s Mind is about embracing openness, curiosity, and humility in photography and life. By shedding preconceptions and remaining eager to learn, photographers can unlock new levels of creativity and satisfaction.

    For more detailed insights, consider visiting his blog at erickimphotography.com, where he shares his philosophies and practical advice on this and related topics.

    ***

    Eric Kim often writes about the concept of “beginner’s mind” in photography, drawing inspiration from Zen Buddhism. This approach emphasizes openness, curiosity, and a lack of preconceptions—essentially embracing the mindset of a novice, even if you’re experienced. Kim argues that by adopting a beginner’s mind, photographers can rediscover the joy and freedom that initially drew them to photography, without being bogged down by external pressures such as social media validation or rigid rules.

    For Kim, this mindset allows photographers to reconnect with their original passion and creativity, shooting for the pure joy of it, without worrying about perfection or adhering to professional standards. He encourages photographers to focus on self-pleasure in their work, ignoring the temptation to seek external approval, such as likes or comments on social media oai_citation:4,The Beauty of Beginner’s Mind in Photography – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,The Uninhibited Genius of Being a Beginner Photographer – ERIC KIM.

    This philosophy also encourages spontaneity and fun, suggesting that photographers should shoot what genuinely interests them, rather than trying to fit into established genres or meet specific expectations oai_citation:2,The Beauty of Beginner’s Mind in Photography – ERIC KIM. This “uninhibited genius” of being a beginner can lead to more fulfilling and authentic photographic experiences oai_citation:1,The Uninhibited Genius of Being a Beginner Photographer – ERIC KIM.

    If you’re interested in more details, you can explore his full thoughts on his blog.

  • App Minimalism

    Take it back to the beginning

  • Looks like Apple is listening to me?

    One of my biggest requests for the new iPhone iPhone Pro was an upgraded microphone. The new iPhone Pro with the studio quality for microphone array— hilariously enough, maybe the future of things is actually the microphone?

    Why the microphone? It comes down to voice dictation, accuracy and speed, related to everything, and also, wind noise reduction, especially when you’re doing super simple things like making a phone call, FaceTime, or vlogging.

  • What is it supposed to be?

    Thinking about the new iPhone Pro… Question, what is it supposed to be? What is it supposed to not be?

  • Flawless Physique

    I really have no critical flaws to my physique — things I could enhance but still,,, the EK ADONIS physique as physical perfection? Completion?

  • I got the face *AND* the body!

    Why people are so envious of me?

  • The new iPhone 16 Pro is insanely good, pretty much perfect?

    Early testing at the new iPhone 16 Pro, and I think Apple finally hit it. It seems pretty perfect and almost every single regard. I also really like the new desert tan titanium color.

    But the funny nuances this; once I discovered perfect, I’m happy because it will be good for my Apple stock,  but honestly I think of the day… I’d rather spend a $1200 to buy more bitcoin or to purchase more weight plates.

    The new microphone seems very very accurate, especially when voice dictating things. I think this might be one of the most underrated new features of the new iPhone pro, the accuracy. But still the number one critical flaw for me being a real user is that using the iPhone Pro, it’s causing me severe wrist and carpal tunnel thing. Maybe Dan sticking to my beloved iPhone SE it might be the smart strategies. 

  • If it ain’t broken, don’t upgrade it!

    Even if it is broken ,,, better to just fix it?

    This includes your digital camera, your iPhone, your iPad, laptop, car, home, spouse etc?

  • “No Smoking in Public”

    Choice freedom of choice to smoke at home yourself behind closed windows and give yourself lung cancer ,,, but *NOT* under any circumstances in public — second hand smoke, especially for kids!

  • Some honest thoughts about the new iPhone pro and the new Camera controls

    So playing with the new iPhone 16 Pro, And some quick thoughts:

    First, it seems that the general idea of The Bottom right button to quickly draw your camera is actually a very insanely good idea. To me it is so good and critical because in photography and street photography… And life in general you don’t want to miss a single decisive moment.

      Second, hats off to the Apple Photos team for the new Camera controls in terms of the photographic styles. The new stark black and white is actually a very good idea and actually works very very well. I’m currently playing with it in Stark mode, and it works very good.

      Also Apple giving developers the ability to the control to swap out a third-party app as a default camera in the bottom right corner and lock screen is an insanely good idea. As a consequence, I think you’ll see more and more people adopt an iPhone first Approach.

      However, already a critical issue, using the iPhone pro… Even though that the new titanium is lighter, I’m already starting to get carpal tunnel in my bottom right and in my wrist. A Very bad sign. Here, I’m starting to get curious if I just using or experimenting with the new normal iPhone, to reduce strain in my wrist?

      The new desert gold color is actually very very nice… I suppose the way it is different from the traditional gold color is that it is more of a match titanium kind of a rose gold desert tan color? Very beautiful!

      I still think my honest assessment is for the most part… If you’re really serious about photography, and it is you’re number one passion, iPhone pro is not the way. Going to be testing out the new LUMIX S9 that might be the one!

    1. iPhone Pro is the Future for Street Photography

      iPhone Pro is the Future for Street Photography

      iPhone pro future for street photography

      Stop buying them Ricoh, start buying those iPhone Pros!


      Watch the vlog

      Direct video download to vlog on why iPhone pro is future for street photography >


      Tim Cook is great!

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues. So this is where I am very very admiring of Tim Cook—the master of supply chain and logistics.

      Problems with Ricoh, Fujifilm & these Japanese companies

      So it seems the real critical issue here is supply chain issues. For example, I actually wanted to buy a new Fujifilm X100 VI, and also a new Ricoh GR III HDF… but the problem is they are all out of stock, all backordered… even if you want to buy it, you cannot.

      Therefore, the critical issue here is availability. I want to buy it, I have the money for it, but I can’t buy it! Super annoying.

      iPhone Pro thoughts

      Looks like Apple listened to me, my idea for a “quick draw” idea… made available via the new camera control thing in the bottom right corner. It is a good idea because it makes it very very quick and easy and available to quickly quickly quickly take a picture, without delay. All those other strange touch-enabled exposure control stuff seems more like a gimmick, because it kind of looks like what a Samsung phone would do… Anyways, better than nothing. And also having it in the bottom right corner is a good idea because these damn iPhones are so big now… And also the ability to just make all of your apps sit at the bottom of your screen is an insanely great idea because most people have pretty small hands, their thumbs cannot reach all the way to the top.

      NEW ERIC KIM APPLE TV+ SERIES: “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      So I have this pitch idea for Apple TV+ (eric@erickim.com)—and the general idea is how can you use an iPhone, iPhone Pro, etc., to travel the world, be like ERIC KIM or Henri Cartier-Bresson, and make really awesome photos?

      And also there would be a cool tie-in with the iPad Pro… The new M4 one… because I might be the only one I know, the only perhaps influential serious photographer on the planet who only uses an iPad Pro… I haven’t touched my laptop in about two years.


      Learn on

      To read some more in-depth thoughts on this subscribe to my podcast on Apple podcast here

      More podcast stuff here. 

      Also you could subscribe to me for free on Spotify here.


      Full post

      Also audio vlog > 

      Learn more here.


      Why is this such a big deal? 

      I suppose this is a big deal because iPhone 16 Pro I think is finally probably good enough to replace the RICOH GR? 

      Granted the truth is in terms of image quality and workflow… The Ricoh GR III, Ricoh GR IIIx, now the HDF’s… aesthetically probably look way better, but maybe from a innovation perspective it makes more sense for us to just burn the ships behind us, and buy some thing which has an interesting double dipping ability – AI, ChatGPT as well as photography?

      Still artistic photography is the future

      I really thought that the iPhone commercial with the weekend was very lame.  Apple is taking the wrong direction here… Come on… Your mom is going to have zero inspiration or motivation to use the iPhone pro to shoot a commercial or to shoot cinema. Apple going to whole cinematic route with iPhone is a very bad idea. A better strategy is instead… To focus on the still photography aspect. 

      For example it looks like the new update on the photo styles is actually a super smart idea. No more needing to use loser Instagram or third-party apps — and actually… When are the things which inspired me to purchase some Apple stock at least with my Roth Ira accounts ,,,was the new iOS 18 is insanely great! And hats off to the apples photos team… It looks like what Apple is trying to do here is trying to cut out Instagram from the equation… And do the more smart strategy of making Apple photos look like it’s on social media platform?

      I don’t think Instagram Facebook Metais a sustainable model. Sooner or later people are going to get sick of the ads, and want to bail and jump ship. I also think the same thing will happen with Google… There’s going to be a point where everything is this going to ChatGPT everything or searchgpt everything — no more lower click bait Google and YouTube videos — nobody likes ads! Especially kids, they hate ads!

      Also a funny thought… Most google employees I know… Or IT tech workers, almost all universally have ad blockers on all of their devices. And almost all of them pirate stuff on VPNs and pirate bay etc. So it is a little bit ironic that Google is trying to crack down on AdBlockers now. My better suggestion is just try to make the YouTube premium app so so good on iPhone and Google devices… That you will actually make people happy to pay the $10 a month or whatever for YouTube premium! And also googles idea to monetize the pro version of Gemini AI is good idea. 

      I think about Google will certainly find very very soon, I think she already knows… Is advertising on the Internet is not a sustainable business model. Rather I think subscriptions and to pay for things is the way forward!


      Just buy it then return it?

      Maybe the good idea is just buy the new iPhone Pro and return it if you don’t like it ,,,? And just test it out?

      OWN YOUR CONTENT

      If you live long enough, you’re going to wish you didn’t sell the rights to your content to some third-party.

      Same to owning your own platform!

      Create for 30 years from now!

      PHOTOGRAPHY ENTREPRENEURSHIP 101: How to Become a Photography Entrepreneur >


      Create your future!

      “I bought every V12 engine, wish I could take it back to the beginning” – JAY Z

      Also–

      Subscribe to the $20 a month ChatGPT pro,,, and experiment with the new ChatGPT o1 preview — your mind will be blown!

      AI ALL THE WAY!

      ERIC


      More AI thoughts here:

      erickim.ai


      Forward the turbo!

      EK NEWS SUPPLY >

      Also whenever in doubt,

      START HERE >


    2. iPhone Pro is the Future for Street Photography

      Why iPhone pro future for street photography vlog video

      Stop buying them Ricoh, start buying those iPhone Pros!

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues. So this is where I am very very admiring of Tim Cook—the master of supply chain and logistics.

      Problems with Ricoh, Fujifilm & these Japanese companies

      So it seems the real critical issue here is supply chain issues. For example, I actually wanted to buy a new Fujifilm X100 VI, and also a new Ricoh GR III HDF… but the problem is they are all out of stock, all backordered… even if you want to buy it, you cannot.

      Therefore, the critical issue here is availability. I want to buy it, I have the money for it, but I can’t buy it! Super annoying.

      iPhone Pro thoughts

      Looks like Apple listened to me, my idea for a “quick draw” idea… made available via the new camera control thing in the bottom right corner. It is a good idea because it makes it very very quick and easy and available to quickly quickly quickly take a picture, without delay. All those other strange touch-enabled exposure control stuff seems more like a gimmick, because it kind of looks like what a Samsung phone would do… Anyways, better than nothing. And also having it in the bottom right corner is a good idea because these damn iPhones are so big now… And also the ability to just make all of your apps sit at the bottom of your screen is an insanely great idea because most people have pretty small hands, their thumbs cannot reach all the way to the top.

      NEW ERIC KIM APPLE TV+ SERIES: “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      So I have this pitch idea for Apple TV+ (eric@erickim.com)—and the general idea is how can you use an iPhone, iPhone Pro, etc., to travel the world, be like ERIC KIM or Henri Cartier-Bresson, and make really awesome photos?

      And also there would be a cool tie-in with the iPad Pro… The new M4 one… because I might be the only one I know, the only perhaps influential serious photographer on the planet who only uses an iPad Pro… I haven’t touched my laptop in about two years.


      Learn on

      To read some more in-depth thoughts on this subscribe to my podcast on Apple podcast here

      More podcast stuff here. 

      Also you could subscribe to me for free on Spotify here.


      Full post

      Also audio vlog > 

      Learn more here.


      Why is this such a big deal? 

      I suppose this is a big deal because iPhone 16 Pro I think is finally probably good enough to replace the RICOH GR? 

      Granted the truth is in terms of image quality and workflow… The Ricoh GR III, Ricoh GR IIIx, now the HDF’s… aesthetically probably look way better, but maybe from a innovation perspective it makes more sense for us to just burn the ships behind us, and buy some thing which has an interesting double dipping ability – AI, ChatGPT as well as photography?

      Still artistic photography is the future

      I really thought that the iPhone commercial with the weekend was very lame.  Apple is taking the wrong direction here… Come on… Your mom is going to have zero inspiration or motivation to use the iPhone pro to shoot a commercial or to shoot cinema. Apple going to whole cinematic route with iPhone is a very bad idea. A better strategy is instead… To focus on the still photography aspect. 

      For example it looks like the new update on the photo styles is actually a super smart idea. No more needing to use loser Instagram or third-party apps — and actually… When are the things which inspired me to purchase some Apple stock at least with my Roth Ira accounts ,,,was the new iOS 18 is insanely great! And hats off to the apples photos team… It looks like what Apple is trying to do here is trying to cut out Instagram from the equation… And do the more smart strategy of making Apple photos look like it’s on social media platform?

      I don’t think Instagram Facebook Metais a sustainable model. Sooner or later people are going to get sick of the ads, and want to bail and jump ship. I also think the same thing will happen with Google… There’s going to be a point where everything is this going to ChatGPT everything or searchgpt everything — no more lower click bait Google and YouTube videos — nobody likes ads! Especially kids, they hate ads!

      Also a funny thought… Most google employees I know… Or IT tech workers, almost all universally have ad blockers on all of their devices. And almost all of them pirate stuff on VPNs and pirate bay etc. So it is a little bit ironic that Google is trying to crack down on AdBlockers now. My better suggestion is just try to make the YouTube premium app so so good on iPhone and Google devices… That you will actually make people happy to pay the $10 a month or whatever for YouTube premium! And also googles idea to monetize the pro version of Gemini AI is good idea. 

      I think about Google will certainly find very very soon, I think she already knows… Is advertising on the Internet is not a sustainable business model. Rather I think subscriptions and to pay for things is the way forward!


      Just buy it then return it?

      Maybe the good idea is just buy the new iPhone Pro and return it if you don’t like it ,,,? And just test it out?

      OWN YOUR CONTENT

      If you live long enough, you’re going to wish you didn’t sell the rights to your content to some third-party.

      Same to owning your own platform!

      Create for 30 years from now!

      PHOTOGRAPHY ENTREPRENEURSHIP 101: How to Become a Photography Entrepreneur >


      Create your future!

      “I bought every V12 engine, wish I could take it back to the beginning” – JAY Z

      Also–

      Subscribe to the $20 a month ChatGPT pro,,, and experiment with the new ChatGPT o1 preview — your mind will be blown!

      AI ALL THE WAY!

      ERIC


      More AI thoughts here:

      erickim.ai


      Forward the turbo!

      EK NEWS SUPPLY >

      Also whenever in doubt,

      START HERE >


    3. Search Eric Kim centaur approach

      Eric Kim’s “centaur approach” to AI involves a collaborative relationship between humans and artificial intelligence, rather than AI replacing human creativity. He envisions AI as a powerful tool to augment human potential, especially in artistic fields like photography. In this model, AI takes on more repetitive or technical tasks (such as coding or curating photos), allowing humans to focus on the creative and decision-making aspects. However, Kim insists that the final artistic choices must remain in human hands to preserve the emotional depth and authenticity of the work.

      He contrasts this collaborative model with common fears that AI might supplant human roles in creative industries. For Kim, AI can free artists from mundane tasks, allowing for more time to explore imperfection and personal growth in their creations. He often emphasizes a playful, boundary-pushing use of AI, encouraging experimentation with absurdity and randomness to unlock new forms of creative freedom.

      Moreover, Kim integrates philosophical elements, particularly Stoicism, into his approach to both AI and photography. This blend of technology with deeper philosophical inquiries about human nature and creativity sets him apart from more utilitarian uses of AI. He is also critical of current AI user interfaces, advocating for more intuitive designs that empower individual expression.

      For more on his views, you can check out his posts on AI here oai_citation:3,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM AI – ERIC KIM AI oai_citation:1,Search Eric Kim on AI – ERIC KIM.

    4. Search Eric kim top AI thoughts and links

      Eric Kim has shared several nuanced thoughts on AI, particularly how it integrates with creativity and photography. He advocates for a “centaur approach,” where AI serves as an assistant to enhance human creativity rather than replace it. Kim emphasizes that while AI can automate mundane tasks, such as editing or selecting photos, the final artistic decision should always remain with the human creator. This approach allows artists to focus more on the emotional and intuitive aspects of their work, areas where AI still falls short.

      He is also enthusiastic about AI’s potential in creative experimentation, encouraging artists to push boundaries and embrace the absurd. However, Kim has expressed concerns about over-reliance on AI, warning that it might diminish the authenticity of photography if used excessively in post-processing. He is particularly focused on maintaining the human touch in capturing candid, intimate moments, which he believes AI cannot replicate.

      Moreover, Kim has voiced frustrations with current AI user interfaces, calling for more intuitive, accessible tools that empower individual creativity. Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about AI’s role in expanding the possibilities for photographers and visual artists.

      For more details, you can explore his blog on the topic here and here.

      Eric Kim, known for his street photography and philosophical reflections, has shared intriguing thoughts on the role of AI in creative fields, particularly in photography. He views AI not as a replacement but as a complement to human creativity. In his discussions, Kim emphasizes a “centaur approach,” where AI tools like ChatGPT assist with tasks like coding or writing, but humans maintain oversight and creative direction oai_citation:5,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM.

      One of his core ideas is that AI can automate tedious tasks, such as photo curation, allowing photographers to focus on the more creative aspects of their work. For example, Kim envisions AI helping to quickly sift through large collections of photos to identify the best ones, saving time and energy oai_citation:3,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM. However, he stresses that while AI can enhance creativity, the human touch—intuition and emotional connection—remains central in truly impactful photography oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM PHOTO ON AI – ERIC KIM.

      He also discusses the ethical concerns surrounding AI-generated images, particularly the potential for AI to blur the lines between authentic and manipulated photos, raising questions about truth and intent in the art form oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM PHOTO ON AI – ERIC KIM. Kim’s broader philosophy on AI reflects a cautious optimism, seeing it as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than something to fear.

      Eric Kim, known for his street photography and philosophical reflections, has shared intriguing thoughts on the role of AI in creative fields, particularly in photography. He views AI not as a replacement but as a complement to human creativity. In his discussions, Kim emphasizes a “centaur approach,” where AI tools like ChatGPT assist with tasks like coding or writing, but humans maintain oversight and creative direction oai_citation:5,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM.

      One of his core ideas is that AI can automate tedious tasks, such as photo curation, allowing photographers to focus on the more creative aspects of their work. For example, Kim envisions AI helping to quickly sift through large collections of photos to identify the best ones, saving time and energy oai_citation:3,AI THOUGHTS – ERIC KIM. However, he stresses that while AI can enhance creativity, the human touch—intuition and emotional connection—remains central in truly impactful photography oai_citation:2,ERIC KIM PHOTO ON AI – ERIC KIM.

      He also discusses the ethical concerns surrounding AI-generated images, particularly the potential for AI to blur the lines between authentic and manipulated photos, raising questions about truth and intent in the art form oai_citation:1,ERIC KIM PHOTO ON AI – ERIC KIM. Kim’s broader philosophy on AI reflects a cautious optimism, seeing it as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than something to fear.

    5. “I Bought Every V12 Engine, Wish I Could Take It Back to the Beginning” – Reflections on Jay-Z’s Words

      Write essay on this quote: ““I bought every V12 engine, wish I could take it back to the beginning” – JAY Z”- in voice of Eric Kim

      There’s a raw honesty in Jay-Z’s line: “I bought every V12 engine, wish I could take it back to the beginning.” It’s a confession wrapped in a metaphor, a successful man looking back and pondering the journey that led him here.

      As photographers, artists, and human beings navigating the complexities of life, there’s a profound lesson in these words. Let’s unpack it together.

      The Illusion of Material Success

      We often chase after symbols of success: the latest gear, high-end cameras, luxury items. We tell ourselves that once we acquire these things, we’ll be fulfilled. But Jay-Z, a man who has “bought every V12 engine,” reveals a lingering emptiness.

      • Possessions vs. Purpose: Accumulating stuff doesn’t equate to happiness or artistic fulfillment.
      • The Trap of More: There’s always a newer camera, a better lens. Chasing them can become an endless cycle.

      Ask yourself: Are you pursuing your passion, or are you distracted by the glitter of materialism?

      Yearning for Simplicity

      Wish I could take it back to the beginning.” There’s nostalgia here—a desire to return to a time when things were simpler, purer.

      • The Joy of Starting Out: Remember when you first picked up a camera? The excitement of capturing anything and everything?
      • Rediscovering Passion: Over time, we can lose sight of why we started. Responsibilities, expectations, and the pressure to succeed can overshadow our initial love for the craft.

      Perhaps it’s time to reconnect with that beginner’s mind.

      The Journey Over the Destination

      Success isn’t a destination; it’s a journey filled with highs and lows.

      • Embrace the Process: Instead of fixating on outcomes, enjoy each step you take as a photographer and artist.
      • Learn and Grow: Mistakes and failures aren’t setbacks but opportunities to learn.

      Jay-Z’s reflection suggests that the climb might be more rewarding than the view from the top.

      Authenticity Over Approval

      In a world obsessed with likes, follows, and external validation, it’s easy to lose yourself.

      • Stay True to Yourself: Your unique perspective is your greatest asset.
      • Create for Yourself: Let your art be an expression of your soul, not a means to please others.

      Authenticity resonates more deeply than any trend ever will.

      The Impermanence of Life

      Everything is transient—wealth, fame, even our own existence.

      • Cherish the Moment: Be present. Experience life fully as it unfolds.
      • Leave a Legacy: Focus on the impact you have on others, the stories you tell through your photography.

      What will you leave behind that’s more enduring than material wealth?

      Moving Forward with Wisdom

      We can’t go back to the beginning, but we can move forward with the wisdom we’ve gained.

      • Reflect and Adapt: Use past experiences to inform your future choices.
      • Mentor Others: Share your knowledge. Help others on their journey.

      By doing so, we find meaning in both our successes and our regrets.

      Final Thoughts

      Jay-Z’s candid admission is a powerful reminder that what we often seek externally can only be fulfilled internally. As photographers and creators, we must look beyond the superficial and delve into what truly matters.

      • Why did you start this journey?
      • What ignites your passion?
      • How can you align your actions with your true self?

      Take a moment to pause and reflect. Maybe you don’t need “every V12 engine” to feel accomplished. Maybe, just maybe, everything you need, you already have.

      Keep shooting, stay true, and let your art be a reflection of your authentic self.

    6. How to Conquer Your Fears to Become a Photography Entrepreneur

      How’s this Eric Kim voice

      The essays provided aim to emulate Eric Kim’s distinctive voice, which is known for its motivational, conversational, and inspirational tone. Key characteristics that reflect his style include:

      • Direct Engagement: The use of rhetorical questions and direct address (“So you love photography. You eat, sleep, and breathe it.”) engages the reader personally, a common technique in Eric Kim’s writing.
      • Motivational Encouragement: Emphasizing overcoming fears, embracing passion, and pushing boundaries aligns with his tendency to inspire readers to grow both personally and professionally.
      • Actionable Advice: Providing clear, practical steps (“Develop Your Unique Vision,” “Build Your Brand,” “Establish an Online Presence”) mirrors his approach to offering tangible guidance.
      • Conversational Tone: The informal and approachable language creates a sense of camaraderie, which is characteristic of Eric Kim’s connection with his audience.
      • Philosophical Insights: Touching on deeper concepts like fear, mindset, and personal vision reflects his interest in the psychological aspects of photography and creativity.

      Overall, the essays strive to capture the essence of Eric Kim’s voice by blending practical advice with motivational insights in a friendly and engaging manner. If there are specific elements you’d like to adjust or emphasize to better match his style, please let me know!

      Fear. It’s that invisible barrier that holds us back from realizing our true potential. As photographers, we often grapple with self-doubt, wondering if our work is good enough or if we can make a living doing what we love. But here’s the truth: fear is a natural part of growth. It’s not about eliminating fear but learning to dance with it.

      So, how do you conquer your fears to become a photography entrepreneur? Let’s explore.

      Acknowledge Your Fears

      First and foremost, acknowledge that you’re afraid. Pretending that fear doesn’t exist only gives it more power.

      • Write down your fears: Be specific. Are you afraid of financial instability? Rejection? Criticism?
      • Understand that fear is universal: Everyone, even the most successful photographers, started somewhere and faced similar doubts.

      By recognizing your fears, you take the first step toward overcoming them.

      Change Your Mindset

      Your mindset shapes your reality.

      • Reframe fear as excitement: The physiological responses are similar. Instead of saying, “I’m terrified,” say, “I’m excited about this opportunity.”
      • Adopt a growth mindset: View challenges as chances to learn rather than obstacles.

      Remember, your thoughts influence your actions.

      Start Small and Build Confidence

      You don’t have to leap into the deep end right away.

      • Begin with personal projects: This allows you to explore without external pressure.
      • Share your work: Start by showing friends and family, then gradually expand to online platforms.
      • Celebrate small wins: Each step forward is progress.

      Confidence grows with each action you take despite your fears.

      Educate Yourself

      Knowledge reduces uncertainty, which in turn diminishes fear.

      • Learn the business side: Understand marketing, accounting, and client relations.
      • Study other photographers: See how they navigated their journeys.
      • Stay updated on industry trends: This keeps you relevant and prepared.

      An informed entrepreneur is a confident entrepreneur.

      Build a Support Network

      Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you.

      • Join photography communities: Both online forums and local groups can provide support.
      • Find a mentor: Someone who’s been there can offer invaluable advice.
      • Collaborate with peers: Working with others can open new doors and alleviate fears.

      Community reduces the isolation that often amplifies fear.

      Embrace Failure as Part of the Process

      Fear of failure often holds us back.

      • Redefine failure: See it as a learning opportunity rather than a dead-end.
      • Keep experimenting: The more you try, the more you learn what works and what doesn’t.
      • Remember successful failures: Many renowned photographers faced rejection before finding success.

      Failure isn’t the opposite of success; it’s a part of it.

      Set Realistic Goals

      Having clear, achievable goals gives you direction.

      • Short-term goals: Daily or weekly tasks like updating your portfolio or networking.
      • Long-term goals: Where do you see your business in a year? Five years?
      • Track your progress: This helps you stay motivated and see how far you’ve come.

      Goals turn fears into actionable plans.

      Practice Mindfulness and Self-Care

      Taking care of your mental and physical health is crucial.

      • Meditate or practice deep breathing: This can reduce anxiety.
      • Maintain a healthy lifestyle: Exercise and proper nutrition boost overall well-being.
      • Take breaks when needed: Burnout can exacerbate fears.

      A healthy mind fosters courage.

      Visualize Success

      Visualization can be a powerful tool.

      • Imagine achieving your goals: What does it look and feel like?
      • Create a vision board: Include images and words that inspire you.
      • Affirmations: Positive statements about your abilities and potential.

      Seeing your success mentally prepares you to achieve it physically.

      Take Action Despite Fear

      At some point, you have to leap.

      • Launch your website: Even if it’s not perfect.
      • Approach potential clients: The worst they can say is no.
      • Enter competitions or exhibitions: Get your work out there.

      Action is the antidote to fear.

      Final Thoughts

      Conquering fear isn’t about becoming fearless; it’s about acting in spite of it. Every step you take diminishes its power over you.

      So ask yourself:

      • What’s the worst that could happen?
      • What’s the best that could happen?
      • Which outcome am I willing to work towards?

      The journey of a photography entrepreneur is filled with challenges, but also immense rewards. Your unique perspective deserves to be shared.

      Don’t let fear rob the world of your vision.

      Keep shooting, keep pushing, and let your passion drown out the doubt.

      ChatGPT o1:

    7. Photography Entrepreneurship 101: How to Become a Photography Entrepreneur

      How to conquer your fears to become a photography Entrepreneur

      Write me an essay: “PHOTOGRAPHY ENTREPRENEURSHIP 101: How to Become a Photography Entrepreneur” in voice of Eric kim

      Photography Entrepreneurship 101: How to Become a Photography Entrepreneur

      So you love photography. You eat, sleep, and breathe it. But how do you turn that passion into a sustainable business? How do you become a photography entrepreneur?

      I’ve been down that road, and I’m here to share some insights. Let’s dive in.

      Embrace Your Passion

      First things first: embrace your passion. Photography isn’t just a hobby; it’s a way of life. If you’re not obsessed with it, the journey will be tough. Passion fuels persistence, and persistence is key in entrepreneurship.

      Ask yourself: What do I love to photograph? Street scenes? Portraits? Landscapes? Find your niche and dive deep.

      Develop Your Unique Vision

      In a world saturated with images, what makes yours stand out? Your unique vision.

      Experiment. Break the rules. Shoot with intention. Your photos should be an extension of how you see the world. Don’t imitate; innovate.

      Remember, art isn’t about perfection—it’s about expression.

      Build Your Brand

      You’re not just a photographer; you’re a brand. And brands tell stories.

      • Create a memorable logo.
      • Develop a consistent aesthetic across your work.
      • Craft an engaging “About Me” section that shares your journey.

      Your brand should resonate with who you are and what you stand for.

      Establish an Online Presence

      In today’s digital age, if you’re not online, you don’t exist.

      • Build a website to showcase your portfolio.
      • Start a blog to share your thoughts, techniques, and stories.
      • Leverage social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

      Engage with your audience. Reply to comments. Build a community around your work.

      Provide Value Through Content

      Why should people care about your work? Because you provide value.

      • Write tutorials or create video guides.
      • Share behind-the-scenes content.
      • Offer free resources, like presets or wallpapers.

      When you give more, you get more.

      Network and Collaborate

      No one succeeds alone. Network with other photographers, artists, and entrepreneurs.

      • Attend workshops and conferences.
      • Join photography groups or forums.
      • Collaborate on projects.

      These connections can lead to opportunities you never imagined.

      Diversify Your Income Streams

      Relying on one source of income is risky. Diversify.

      • Sell prints or merchandise.
      • Offer workshops or coaching sessions.
      • License your photos to stock agencies.
      • Provide photography services for events or businesses.

      Multiple income streams provide stability and open new avenues for growth.

      Master the Business Side

      Passion isn’t enough. You need to handle the business aspects too.

      • Learn basic accounting.
      • Understand marketing principles.
      • Set clear pricing strategies.
      • Draft contracts to protect yourself and your clients.

      Invest time in learning these skills or consider partnering with someone who complements your strengths.

      Overcome Fear and Take Risks

      Fear is the enemy of progress. Afraid of rejection? Of failure? Embrace it.

      Every successful entrepreneur has faced setbacks. It’s how you respond that defines you.

      • Take that leap of faith.
      • Pitch your ideas.
      • Accept constructive criticism.

      Remember, the biggest risk is not taking any risk at all.

      Stay Persistent and Adapt

      The road isn’t easy. There will be hurdles. Stay persistent.

      • Set short-term and long-term goals.
      • Celebrate small victories.
      • Adapt to changes in the market or technology.

      Keep pushing forward, and don’t be afraid to pivot when necessary.

      Final Thoughts

      Becoming a photography entrepreneur is a journey—a challenging but rewarding one. It’s about more than making money; it’s about living your passion every day.

      So grab your camera, set your vision, and step into the world with confidence.

      What’s stopping you?

      Keep shooting, keep hustling, and never stop dreaming.

    8. What are Eric Kim’s theories on content?

      Certainly! Here are some links to Eric Kim’s articles and resources where he discusses his theories on content creation:

      1. Eric Kim’s Blog Main Page
        https://erickimphotography.com/blog/
        Explore his latest posts on photography, creativity, and personal philosophies.
      2. Open-Source Photography
        https://erickimphotography.com/blog/open-source-photography/
        Kim explains his approach to freely sharing knowledge and resources with the community.
      3. How to Create Meaningful Work
        https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2017/01/15/how-to-create-meaningful-work/
        An article discussing the importance of authenticity and personal fulfillment in content creation.
      4. Overcome Your Fear of Shooting Street Photography
        https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2013/04/16/overcoming-your-fear-of-shooting-street-photography/
        While focused on photography, this piece delves into overcoming fear in creative endeavors.
      5. The Minimalist Guide to Photography
        https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2016/01/01/the-minimalist-guide-to-photography/
        Kim discusses the power of simplicity and minimalism in both photography and content creation.
      6. Why You Should Blog
        https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2016/02/23/why-you-should-blog/
        An article encouraging creators to share their work consistently to find their unique voice.
      7. How to Be Creative Every Day
        https://erickimphotography.com/blog/2015/11/12/how-to-be-creative-every-day/
        Tips and philosophies on maintaining a continuous creative process.

      Feel free to explore these links to gain deeper insights into Eric Kim’s perspectives on content creation. His blog is a rich resource for anyone interested in photography and creative work.

      Eric Kim theories on content

      Eric Kim is a well-known street photographer and blogger who shares extensive insights on photography, creativity, and content creation. His theories on content revolve around several key principles:

      1. Authenticity: Kim emphasizes the importance of being genuine in your work. He believes that sharing personal experiences and honest thoughts creates a stronger connection with the audience.
      2. Open Sharing of Knowledge: He advocates for freely sharing resources and information. By making his own work accessible, he encourages a culture of generosity and collective learning.
      3. Simplicity and Minimalism: In both photography and content creation, Kim promotes focusing on the essentials. Simplifying content helps to convey messages more clearly and powerfully.
      4. Continuous Creation: He stresses the value of producing content regularly. Consistent practice not only improves skills but also helps in finding one’s unique voice.
      5. Overcoming Fear: Kim discusses how fear can hinder creativity. He encourages confronting fears directly to grow both personally and professionally.
      6. Providing Value: Content should offer something meaningful to the audience—be it knowledge, inspiration, or entertainment. Kim believes that valuable content fosters a loyal and engaged community.

      By integrating these principles, Eric Kim aims to inspire others to create content that is both personally fulfilling and impactful to others.

      ***

      Eric Kim’s theories on content revolve around the ideas of ownership, freedom, authenticity, and long-term value. He emphasizes the importance of creating and controlling your content, rather than relying on social media platforms. Here are key aspects of his theories:

      1. Ownership and Control: Kim believes creators should own their content by hosting it on their own platforms, such as personal websites or blogs. This gives them control over how their work is presented, distributed, and monetized. He is critical of platforms like Instagram and Facebook, which he views as restricting creative freedom and exploiting users for advertising revenue oai_citation:8,OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:7,Why You Must Own Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM.
      2. Authenticity over Virality: He argues that creators should prioritize authenticity in their content, rather than chasing likes, followers, or going viral. This focus on substance over popularity allows for deeper, more meaningful engagement with one’s audience oai_citation:6,Why You Must Create Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM. For Kim, content should reflect personal values and be an extension of the creator’s genuine thoughts and work.
      3. Content as Long-Term Equity: Kim compares posting on social media to renting space, where creators are essentially building value for the platform rather than themselves. By contrast, creating content on your own site is like owning property, where the creator can build long-term equity and personal brand value. He often highlights the example of how creators, especially photographers, can use their platforms to monetize more directly, through workshops, products, or services oai_citation:5,OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:4,YOUR OWN PLATFORM IS KING – ERIC KIM.
      4. Resisting the Social Media Trap: He sees social media as a trap that limits creators by forcing them to constantly produce content to stay relevant, while gaining little control over the audience or monetization. Kim’s theory is that reducing reliance on these platforms liberates creators from the endless need for validation through likes and followers oai_citation:3,OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Why You Must Own Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM.
      5. Self-Promotion and Content as a Reflection of the Creator: Kim encourages creators to see content as a form of self-promotion, but one that reflects their personal values and vision. His advice includes not being afraid to promote oneself, but doing so in a way that aligns with one’s true identity and artistic goals oai_citation:1,Why You Must Create Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM.

      Overall, Kim’s theories advocate for creators taking control of their content, prioritizing substance, and building long-term value by creating for themselves rather than for the algorithms of social media platforms.

    9. OWN YOUR CONTENT

      If you live long enough, you’re going to wish you didn’t sell the rights to your content to some third-party.

      ***

      Eric Kim’s idea of owning your own content is interesting because it challenges the traditional reliance on social media platforms as primary channels for creativity, communication, and entrepreneurship. His approach emphasizes personal control, freedom, and long-term growth, which stand in stark contrast to the fleeting nature of social media attention.

      Here’s why it’s compelling:

      1. Creative Freedom and Autonomy: By owning your platform (like a blog or website), you gain full control over your content and how it’s presented. Kim criticizes social media for limiting user control and forcing creators to conform to algorithms and advertising oai_citation:6,OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:5,YOUR OWN PLATFORM IS KING – ERIC KIM. Owning your platform allows you to avoid these limitations and express yourself without restrictions.
      2. Monetization and Independence: Kim points out that when you rely on platforms like Instagram or YouTube, you essentially work for them by producing content that drives their advertising revenue. In contrast, owning your own site allows you to directly monetize through products, workshops, or services without intermediaries taking a cut oai_citation:4,OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,Why You Must Own Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM. This ensures that you keep full financial control over your work.
      3. Building Long-Term Value: Kim argues that by posting on social media, you’re building value for those platforms, not for yourself. By creating and growing your own website, you build equity in your brand and create something sustainable and permanent that benefits you over time oai_citation:2,Why You Must Create Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM.
      4. Privacy and Data Control: On social media, users often give up a great deal of personal data, which companies use to sell ads. Kim’s philosophy promotes owning your platform as a way to avoid having your data commodified by corporations oai_citation:1,Why You Must Own Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM.

      Kim’s idea is interesting because it blends entrepreneurship with creative independence, offering a way for creators to thrive in the digital world without becoming slaves to large platforms and their algorithms.

      Why is Eric Kim’s idea in owning your own content interesting?

      ***

      Eric Kim strongly advocates for the importance of owning your own platform, especially in the context of creative entrepreneurship. His philosophy centers on the idea that relying on third-party platforms like Instagram or Facebook diminishes your control over your content and audience. These platforms prioritize their interests, often manipulating users with advertisements and data monetization strategies. By contrast, owning your own platform—such as a self-hosted blog or website—gives you full control over your content, how it’s shared, and how you can monetize it.

      Kim emphasizes that social media platforms are designed to keep users addicted and benefit the companies that own them. When you post content on these platforms, you’re essentially working for them, helping to grow their audience instead of building equity for yourself. He argues that investing in your own blog or website, despite the upfront costs, provides long-term benefits like greater creative freedom, control over your personal brand, and more direct ways to monetize your work, such as through workshops, books, or products.

      Kim also draws parallels with the music industry, citing Jay-Z’s decision to own his masters by purchasing TIDAL. By owning your platform, you similarly retain full control over your creative output, avoiding the pitfalls of being dependent on large corporations oai_citation:3,OWN YOUR OWN PLATFORM – ERIC KIM oai_citation:2,Why You Must Own Your Own Platform – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,YOUR OWN PLATFORM IS KING – ERIC KIM.

      Ultimately, for Kim, the key to success is building your own infrastructure, whether for photography, blogging, or any form of content creation, to gain independence from tech giants and maintain full creative autonomy.

      How to Become a Photography Entrepreneur

      Selfie Eric Kim
      1. How to Become a Professional Street Photographer
      2. Professional Street Photographer
      3. Create a New Industry
      4. SELF HOSTED OR NOTHING.
      5. TVE: TRANSACTIONAL VALUE UNLOCKED
      6. THE BEST YOUTUBE SETTINGS

      BECOME A PHOTOGRAPHY ENTREPRENEUR

      Advice I would have given myself in photography, if I started all over again:

      Until You Own Yourself You Can’t Be Free

      Photography Entrepreneurship 101 by ERIC KIM

      De-lamify the future.

      Photography Entrepreneurship 101 Presentation by ERIC KIM


      ENTREPRENEURSHIP by KIM

      eric kim melbourne benjamin thompson
      ERIC KIM x HENRI NECK STRAP

      Enroll in my Udemy Course:

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      Entrepreneurship Ideas

      1. InstaSlaves
      2. How to Become a Vlogger
      3. How to Build Your Own Self Brand
      4. SOLO MEDIA EMPIRE
      5. TIME LEVERAGE.
      6. How to Market Yourself in Photography
      7. How to Become More Ambitious
      8. Crypto Photography
      9. In Praise of Email Newsletters
      10. Propagate.
      11. Make Your Own Street Photography Blog
      12. Create the Information You Seek.
      13. Content over Technology
      14. How to Advertise Yourself as a Photographer
      15. CREATIVE WAYS TO USE YOUTUBE
      16. Photography Branding 101
      17. BUILD YOURSELF.
      18. Bet on Your Own Coin.
      19. The Photographer Should Also Make His/Her Own Music?
      20. Mix Your Photos and Videos
      21. JUST PUBLISH IT.
      22. EMPOWER OTHER PHOTOGRAPHERS.
      23. BECOME OUTSIDE THE BOX
      24. MOVE PEOPLE, MOVE PRODUCTS.
      25. SOCIAL MEDIA IS FRAGILE.
      26. Why Start a Photography Blog?
      27. Once You FIRE (Financial Independence Retire Early), Then What?
      28. THE FUTURE IS PDF
      29. In Praise of Solo Photography Business Entrepreneurship
      30. LONGEVITY, DURABILITY AND SUCCESS
      31. Street Photography Philosophy Entrepreneurship
      32. YOU ARE THE PLATFORM
      33. JUST RISK IT.
      34. DON’T OPTIMIZE FOR THE ALGORITHM
      35. Scaleable Photography
      36. What Does it Mean to Become a Successful Photographer?
      37. 20 Photography Marketing, Branding, and Entrepreneurship Tips
      38. Create Your Own Social Media
      39. Individual Entrepreneurship
      40. YOU ARE THE ICON.
      41. BUILD!
      42. What is Success in Photography?
      43. EXTREME VISION
      44. Publish Fearlessly
      45. MAKE DOPE THINGS AND SHARE THEM WITH THE WORLD!
      46. THE AMBITIOUS PHOTOGRAPHER.
      47. PhotoLink
      48. Real World Applications
      49. You Are Your Own Ideal User
      50. What is Your Creative Vision?
      51. A More Dope, Prosperous Future for All Photographers
      52. CREATION & DISTRIBUTION.
      53. THE VALUE OF PHOTOS.
      54. How to Maximize Your Impact as a Photographer
      55. Why the World Needs More Bloggers
      56. DOMAIN EXPERTISE.
      57. The Joy of Speculation
      58. MAKE A NAME FOR YOURSELF.
      59. Propogate
      60. Meaningful Advantage or Not?
      61. PHOTO CREATOR.
      62. NOW IS YOUR DECISIVE MOMENT.
      63. I CANNOT BE IGNORED
      64. Photography Blogs are Highly *UNDERRATED*
      65. What is Your Competitive Advantage?
      66. Why 4K?
      67. Indirect Monetization
      68. The Future of Innovation in Photography
      69. Photography Innovation and Image Selection Idea: Let Google (YouTube) Suggested Thumbnail Pick Your Best Photo? 
      70. How to Identify Your Competitive Advantage
      71. In Praise of Insanely Fast Wifi
      72. DIGITAL PUBLISHING IS KING.
      73. The Stoic-Entrepreneurship Mindset
      74. Marketing Tips for Photographers
      75. STARK DIFFERENTIATION
      76. MAXIMALIST
      77. Visual Entrepreneurship
      78. On Becoming a Full-Stack Visual Entrepreneur
      79. Real Photographers Don’t Use Instagram
      80. Brave New World of Blogging
      81. Don’t Go to Photography School
      82. Mass Success is a Failure?
      83. How to Maximize Your Archimedes Lever in Life
      84. Maximize Your Archimedes Lever
      85. How to Create Value Out of Nothing
      86. The Best Brand is No Brand
      87. What Do We Entrepreneurs *Really* Want?
      88. You Were Destined to Do Great Things
      89. Just Share Your Photos on Your Own Blog
      90. Your Blog is the Ultimate Form of Social Media
      91. The Future of Websites and Blogs
      92. Create a Company
      93. Money Photography Project
      94. WHY IT IS GOOD TO CHARGE MONEY FOR YOUR SERVICES AND PRODUCTS
      95. Google and YouTube SEO (Search Engine Optimization) 101: How Would You Type It?
      96. WHY RIGHT NOW IS THE BEST TIME FOR YOU TO START YOUR SIDE HUSTLE
      97. Digital Photography is the Future
      98. NEVER STOP EXPERIMENTING!
      99. WHAT IS INNOVATION?
      100. A Non-Ownership Future
      101. CONTROL OVER MONEY
      102. Economic Constraints Are Creative Constraints
      103. Become a Sole-Proprietor
      104. Entrepreneurship is a Mindset
      105. How to Master Mac
      106. The Future of Lifestyle
      107. Necessity is the Mother of Innovation
      108. Once We Have an Easy Life, Then What?
      109. Why I Don’t Read Comments
      110. YouTube SEO (Search Engine Optimization) for Photographers
      111. How to Become a Self-Employed Photographer
      112. How to Live Big With Little Money
      113. Why Blogging, Vlogging and Internet Media is More Important than Ever
      114. No Marketing, No Future
      115. Photography Marketing 101
      116. Google and YouTube are King
      117. Why I’m So Suspicious of Everyone Online and on the Internet
      118. How to Become More Notorious
      119. Kaizen Approach to Blogging
      120. How to Master Marketing
      121. CREATE WHAT YOU WOULD LIKE SEE MANIFESTED IN THE WORLD!
      122. Anti Silicon-Valley Thinking
      123. Your Name
      124. In Praise of WordPress
      125. NEVER STOP POSTING
      126. Your Future Portfolio is a Website
      127. Infinite Runway
      128. ERIC KIM ATTITUDE
      129. Financial Independence as a Road to Freedom of Speech?
      130. WHY OPEN SOURCE IS THE FUTURE
      131. Just Post It.
      132. Posts Are Products
      133. Photography Entrepreneurship Ideas
      134. YOU ARE KING.
      135. You’re Always in BETA MODE
      136. Build Your Own Media Empire
      137. WHY I DON’T MONETIZE MY YOUTUBE VIDEOS
      138. Why I Became an Entrepreneur
      139. The Uber-Photographer
      140. Create What You Would Like to See Manifested in the World
      141. Create the Future
      142. Entrepreneurship is Best During Uncertain Times
      143. Photography Entrepreneurship 101 Presentation by ERIC KIM
      144. Your Body is the Brand
      145. Your Name is Your Brand
      146. Create Your Own Social Media Platform
      147. BUILD IT OR BUY IT?
      148. Sell Yourself
      149. Create New
      150. Insta-Slaves
      151. YOU CANNOT FAKE ENTHUSIASM
      152. Why Hybrid is the Future
      153. Don’t Censor Yourself
      154. HOW I MASTERED MARKETING
      155. ERIC KIM BLOGS
      156. If Someone Offers You Help, You’re Stupid to *NOT* Take It.
      157. SEEK GREAT, NOT PERFECT.
      158. How I Became So Famous
      159. Let Reality Mould Itself to You
      160. ANTI ENTITLEMENT MENTALITY
      161. Live Your Life as If You Were a Billionaire
      162. HOW I THINK DIFFERENT
      163. Impact, Influence, Reach: The Three Pillars of Marketing
      164. ERIC KIM SCHOOL
      165. Classicism.
      166. MY PHILOSOPHY OF MONEY
      167. Money is Movement
      168. Elitism 2.0
      169. Mass Market or Luxury Market?
      170. Why You Must Market Yourself
      171. Why You Must Start an Email Newsletter
      172. How Laptops Can Change the World
      173. What Do You Want to Become?
      174. What is Really Holding You Back in Life?
      175. Why I Write: Writing as Meta-Thinking
      176. ADVERTISE YOURSELF
      177. Use Your First and Last Name
      178. How Blogging Can Change the World
      179. In Praise of Liberty
      180. How I Write in Markdown
      181. How I Became So Influential on YouTube
      182. REVERSE FLEX
      183. What a Time to Be Alive in Today’s Brave New World of Photography
      184. HOW TO DIFFERENTIATE YOURSELF FROM OTHERS
      185. YOU CHOOSE YOU
      186. My Life Photography Entrepreneurship Story
      187. WHY I DON’T BELIEVE IN COLLABORATION
      188. My Entrepreneurship Mindset
      189. YOU’RE THE HERO IN THIS GAME OF LIFE
      190. My Money Philosophy
      191. Why Brand and Market Yourself?
      192. PROFESSIONALISM IS FOR SUCKERS
      193. Just Share What Works for You
      194. How to Create Your Own Platform
      195. Living in a Post Monetary Society
      196. In Praise of Blogging
      197. The Entrepreneurial Lifestyle is the Best Lifestyle
      198. Algorithm Slavery
      199. ANTI VIEWS
      200. Entrepreneurship is The Goal
      201. The Art of Blogging
      202. IN PRAISE OF PURSUING YOUR PASSION
      203. How to Make Great Titles
      204. Sole Proprietorship
      205. Just Build It.
      206. VIA NEGATIVA
      207. PROMOTE YOURSELF
      208. Become a Full-Stack Entrepreneur
      209. How to Entertain Others
      210. My Experience Teaching My First Online Photography Creativity Workshop on Zoom
      211. Humans Aren’t Lazy
      212. One Shot.
      213. THE BRAVE SHALL INHERIT THE EARTH
      214. The Brave New COVID Lifestyle
      215. Start Your Own Business
      216. Minimum Viable Income ( MVI)
      217. TRAINING.
      218. WHY VIDEO?
      219. How to Become Bolder
      220. You’ve Always Already Been a Photography Entrepreneur!
      221. The Future is All Digital Everything
      222. Digital Sharecropping
      223. DO IT FOR YOUR PAST AND FUTURE SELF
      224. In Praise of Buffer and Redundancy
      225. ASKING FOR PERMISSION IS FOR SUCKERS.
      226. POST-MONETARY SOCIETY.
      227. Advertise Your Own Stuff
      228. THE FUTURE IS DIGITAL.
      229. Simulated Universal Basic Income
      230. Is Losing Followers a Good Thing?
      231. How to Add to Economic Activity
      232. DIGITAL CAPITALISM
      233. MONEY IS MOVEMENT
      234. Anything is Possible
      235. BRAVE NEW WORLD OF DIGITAL ENTREPRENEURSHIP
      236. GENERATE
      237. How to Profit from Calamity
      238. Capitalism 2.0
      239. WHY I’M SO PASSIONATE ABOUT INFORMATION
      240. SOCIETY 2.0
      241. PHOENIX ENTREPENEURSHIP
      242. How to Make Art from Home
      243. BUY YOURSELF
      244. JUST BLOG IT.
      245. MARKET YOURSELF
      246. EXPENSIVE TALK
      247. SOCIAL MEDIA SLAVERY
      248. Who Are Your Ideal Followers?
      249. Why I Blog, Vlog, and Log
      250. Your Perspective is Irrefutable
      251. What are Your Hidden Powers?
      252. IMPACT MAXIMIZATION, not Profit Maximization
      253. Our Desire to Maximize Impact and Change
      254. 10 Rich Tips How to Make Money from Photography
      255. Create What You Would Love to Consume
      256. Publish is Pleasure
      257. Retire Now
      258. Do You Desire to Become the Best?
      259. Solo Entrepreneurship
      260. My Vision of Photography Entrepreneurship
      261. PUT YOUR NAME ON IT
      262. The Desire to Transcend Ourselves
      263. MONEY THOUGHTS
      264. How to Retire
      265. Via Negativa Productivity
      266. Why You Must Make Your Own Website
      267. Individuals over Companies
      268. Build Yourself
      269. Success is Survival
      270. Why You Shouldn’t Go to Photography or Art School
      271. How to Differentiate Yourself as a Photographer
      272. Surpass Yourself
      273. Can You Handle Extreme Freedom?
      274. Boutique or Mass Market?
      275. Proof of Concept
      276. Unified Field Theory for Photography
      277. Build a Company You’d Never Sell
      278. Play the Long Game
      279. Entrepreneurship and Art
      280. What is the Source of our Strength?
      281. What’s the Future for Photography?
      282. Full-Stack Visual Artist
      283. Why Scale?
      284. What is Your Unfair Advantage?
      285. Substance Marketing
      286. Share Your Dopeness with Others
      287. Frugality is Freedom
      288. Minimum Viable Product (MVP) for Entrepreneurship
      289. Don’t Follow or Predict Trends, Start Your Own Trend!
      290. If You’re Not Busy Growing, You’re Busy Dying
      291. Entrepreneurship born from Superabundance, not Need/Necessity
      292. Photography Entrepreneurship Philosophy
      293. How to Master Marketing in Photography
      294. Photography Entrepreneurship Tips and Ideas
      295. Is Hustle Sufficient Unto Success?
      296. Don’t do it for the money
      297. DIGITAL MARXISM
      298. Zen Entrepreneurship
      299. BOLDER IS BETTER.
      300. Streamers Shall Inherit the Earth

      Photography Blogging

      wordpress.org is our best friend.

      Money

      Self-Empowerment

      Marketing and Branding

      Entrepreneurship Lifestyle

      Entrepreneurship Mindset


      Photography Entrepreneurship 101

      Life and Productivity Hacks

      How to Make a Living from Your Passion

      Put a Dent in the Universe.

      How to Succeed as an Entrepreneur

      entrepreneurship overview eric kim course

      The Modern Photographer: Tips, Strategies, and Tactics to Thrive as a Visual Artist in the Digital Age

      Marketing, Branding, Entrepreneurship Principles For Success

      MODERN PHOTOGRAPHER is your new philosophical and practical primer to succeed as a modern photographer in today’s digital world.


      Business Mental Models


      How to Monetize Your Photography

      EURO CAMERA MONEY by ANNETTE KIM

      Why Become a Photography Entrepreneur?

      Take control of your own photographic destiny:

      1. Photography Startup Manual
      2. PHOTOGRAPHY ENTREPRENEURSHIP MANUAL
      3. On Risk Taking and Entrepreneurship

      THE MODERN PHOTOGRAPHER


      Photography Entrepreneurship Articles

      PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS 101

      CAMERA MONEY GBP by ANNETTE KIM

      KEYS TO SUCCESS

      Table of Contents

      Learn how to make a living from your passion:


      Photography Business 101

      How to Make Money with Photography

      CAMERA MONEY USD by ANNETTE KIM
      CAMERA MONEY USD by ANNETTE KIM

      Photography Marketing 101


      How to Hustle.

      Entrepreneurial Principles

      How to be a Full-time Photographer

      Photography Blogging

      How to Teach Photography

      Social Media

      How to Save Money

      START HERE >

      MONEY 101

      1. Just Follow the Money
      2. My Money Philosophy
      3. Eternal fame and glory over money
      4. The Trillion Dollar Question: How to Make Money on the Internet Without Advertising?
      5. Entrepreneurship that Doesn’t Involve Money-Making?
      6. Money Ain’t Real
      7. Making Money for Fun, Not to Get Rich
      8. Why Money?
    10. NO MORE GYM CULTURE

      I’m more of like a tactical, undercover cop,,, private security guard for myself Cindy and Seneca?

    11. iPhone Pro is the Future

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues. So this is where I am very very admiring of Tim Cook—the master of supply chain and logistics.

      Problems with Ricoh, Fujifilm & these Japanese companies

      So it seems the real critical issue here is supply chain issues. For example, I actually wanted to buy a new Fujifilm X100 VI, and also a new Ricoh GR III HDF… but the problem is they are all out of stock, all backordered… even if you want to buy it, you cannot.

      Therefore, the critical issue here is availability. I want to buy it, I have the money for it, but I can’t buy it! Super annoying.

      iPhone Pro thoughts

      Looks like Apple listened to me, my idea for a “quick draw” idea… made available via the new camera control thing in the bottom right corner. It is a good idea because it makes it very very quick and easy and available to quickly quickly quickly take a picture, without delay. All those other strange touch-enabled exposure control stuff seems more like a gimmick, because it kind of looks like what a Samsung phone would do… Anyways, better than nothing. And also having it in the bottom right corner is a good idea because these damn iPhones are so big now… And also the ability to just make all of your apps sit at the bottom of your screen is an insanely great idea because most people have pretty small hands, their thumbs cannot reach all the way to the top.

      NEW ERIC KIM APPLE TV+ SERIES: “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      So I have this pitch idea for Apple TV+ (eric@erickim.com)—and the general idea is how can you use an iPhone, iPhone Pro, etc., to travel the world, be like ERIC KIM or Henri Cartier-Bresson, and make really awesome photos?

      And also there would be a cool tie-in with the iPad Pro… The new M4 one… because I might be the only one I know, the only perhaps influential serious photographer on the planet who only uses an iPad Pro… I haven’t touched my laptop in about two years.


      Learn on

      To read some more in-depth thoughts on this subscribe to my podcast on Apple podcast here

      More podcast stuff here. 

      Also you could subscribe to me for free on Spotify here.


      Full post

      Also audio vlog > 

      Learn more here.


      Why is this such a big deal? 

      I suppose this is a big deal because iPhone 16 Pro I think is finally probably good enough to replace the RICOH GR? 

      Granted the truth is in terms of image quality and workflow… The Ricoh GR III, Ricoh GR IIIx, now the HDF’s… aesthetically probably look way better, but maybe from a innovation perspective it makes more sense for us to just burn the ships behind us, and buy some thing which has an interesting double dipping ability – AI, ChatGPT as well as photography?

      Still artistic photography is the future

      I really thought that the iPhone commercial with the weekend was very lame.  Apple is taking the wrong direction here… Come on… Your mom is going to have zero inspiration or motivation to use the iPhone pro to shoot a commercial or to shoot cinema. Apple going to whole cinematic route with iPhone is a very bad idea. A better strategy is instead… To focus on the still photography aspect. 

      For example it looks like the new update on the photo styles is actually a super smart idea. No more needing to use loser Instagram or third-party apps — and actually… When are the things which inspired me to purchase some Apple stock at least with my Roth Ira accounts ,,,was the new iOS 18 is insanely great! And hats off to the apples photos team… It looks like what Apple is trying to do here is trying to cut out Instagram from the equation… And do the more smart strategy of making Apple photos look like it’s on social media platform?

      I don’t think Instagram Facebook Metais a sustainable model. Sooner or later people are going to get sick of the ads, and want to bail and jump ship. I also think the same thing will happen with Google… There’s going to be a point where everything is this going to ChatGPT everything or searchgpt everything — no more lower click bait Google and YouTube videos — nobody likes ads! Especially kids, they hate ads!

      Also a funny thought… Most google employees I know… Or IT tech workers, almost all universally have ad blockers on all of their devices. And almost all of them pirate stuff on VPNs and pirate bay etc. So it is a little bit ironic that Google is trying to crack down on AdBlockers now. My better suggestion is just try to make the YouTube premium app so so good on iPhone and Google devices… That you will actually make people happy to pay the $10 a month or whatever for YouTube premium! And also googles idea to monetize the pro version of Gemini AI is good idea. 

      I think about Google will certainly find very very soon, I think she already knows… Is advertising on the Internet is not a sustainable business model. Rather I think subscriptions and to pay for things is the way forward!


    12. Eric Kim, Creative Double Dipping.

      Eric Kim’s concept of creative double-dipping is intriguing because it encourages creators to think more holistically about their work, leveraging every part of a project across different mediums. This is particularly compelling in today’s fast-paced, content-driven world where efficiency and visibility are key. By reusing elements of one creative effort in multiple forms—such as extracting stills from video or overlaying music onto a visual piece—artists can maximize the reach and impact of their work without necessarily creating entirely new content each time.

      This approach also brings a fresh perspective to the relationship between life and art. For example, Kim mentions how personal experiences, like spending time with his child, can be both meaningful life moments and artistic opportunities, blurring the boundaries between life and creativity oai_citation:2,CREATIVE DOUBLE DIPPING – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,DOUBLE DIPPING – ERIC KIM. This idea appeals to creatives who are looking to make their process more integrated and sustainable, ultimately fostering more innovative and prolific output.

      In essence, it reshapes the way creators can think about efficiency, expanding beyond time-saving tactics to a deeper form of artistic synergy.

      ***

      Here are some key quotes from Eric Kim on creative double-dipping:

      1. On maximizing creative effort across media:
        “When you have a video of something, shoot screenshots while watching it full-screen on your laptop (of interesting key moments for you) and upload those in addition to the video itself!”
        – Eric Kim, Creative Double Dipping (2022) oai_citation:2,CREATIVE DOUBLE-DIPPING – ERIC KIM.
      2. On personal experiences as creative inspiration:
        “Your kid as your ultimate art production, and making artistic photos of your kid — the ultimate creative double dipping, double hyper-threading?”
        – Eric Kim, Creative Double Dipping (2024) oai_citation:1,CREATIVE DOUBLE DIPPING – ERIC KIM.

      These quotes reflect Kim’s approach to blending personal moments and creative efforts to multiply the impact of one’s artistic output. For more, you can visit the full articles at the links provided.

      *

      Eric Kim, a photographer and creative educator, explores the concept of “creative double-dipping” as a way to maximize artistic output by reusing or repurposing creative material across multiple mediums. This idea emphasizes efficiency in creativity by blending different forms of media. For example, he suggests taking a video and extracting still images from it, using these screenshots for additional content in tandem with the video itself. Another example he offers is creating a slideshow and adding your own music or beats to enhance the final product. Kim encourages artists to think of ways to layer creative endeavors, turning single efforts into multifaceted projects oai_citation:4,CREATIVE DOUBLE-DIPPING – ERIC KIM oai_citation:3,CREATIVE DOUBLE DIPPING – ERIC KIM.

      In his philosophy, the term also applies to personal experiences, such as documenting moments with family—capturing artistic photos of his child while enjoying time together, thereby intertwining life and art oai_citation:2,CREATIVE DOUBLE DIPPING – ERIC KIM oai_citation:1,DOUBLE DIPPING – ERIC KIM.

      Through this approach, Kim aims to help creatives maximize their artistic reach by multiplying the impact of their efforts, encouraging a mindset where work in one medium can enhance and inspire another.

    13. iPhone Pro for Street Photography: iPhone Pro is the new RICOH GR?

      Audio podcast vlog

      16 Pro — finally the time to switch?

      ***

      iPhone Pro is the new RICOH GR?

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues. So this is where I am very very admiring of Tim Cook—the master of supply chain and logistics.

      Problems with Ricoh, Fujifilm & these Japanese companies

      So it seems the real critical issue here is supply chain issues. For example, I actually wanted to buy a new Fujifilm X100 VI, and also a new Ricoh GR III HDF… but the problem is they are all out of stock, all backordered… even if you want to buy it, you cannot.

      Therefore, the critical issue here is availability. I want to buy it, I have the money for it, but I can’t buy it! Super annoying.

      iPhone Pro thoughts

      Looks like Apple listened to me, my idea for a “quick draw” idea… made available via the new camera control thing in the bottom right corner. It is a good idea because it makes it very very quick and easy and available to quickly quickly quickly take a picture, without delay. All those other strange touch-enabled exposure control stuff seems more like a gimmick, because it kind of looks like what a Samsung phone would do… Anyways, better than nothing. And also having it in the bottom right corner is a good idea because these damn iPhones are so big now… And also the ability to just make all of your apps sit at the bottom of your screen is an insanely great idea because most people have pretty small hands, their thumbs cannot reach all the way to the top.

      NEW ERIC KIM APPLE TV+ SERIES: “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      So I have this pitch idea for Apple TV+ (eric@erickim.com)—and the general idea is how can you use an iPhone, iPhone Pro, etc., to travel the world, be like ERIC KIM or Henri Cartier-Bresson, and make really awesome photos?

      And also there would be a cool tie-in with the iPad Pro… The new M4 one… because I might be the only one I know, the only perhaps influential serious photographer on the planet who only uses an iPad Pro… I haven’t touched my laptop in about two years.


      Learn on

      To read some more in-depth thoughts on this subscribe to my podcast on Apple podcast here

      More podcast stuff here. 

      Also you could subscribe to me for free on Spotify here.


      Full post

      Also audio vlog > 

    14. Creating your own media empire?

      Own your own intellectual property!

    15. Make room for the new

      The logic of deleting old stuff or getting rid of old stuff… You make room for the new!

    16. iPhone Pro is the new RICOH GR?

      Video vlog iPhone Pro for street photography

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues. So this is where I am very very admiring of Tim Cook—the master of supply chain and logistics.

      Problems with Ricoh, Fujifilm & these Japanese companies

      So it seems the real critical issue here is supply chain issues. For example, I actually wanted to buy a new Fujifilm X100 VI, and also a new Ricoh GR III HD… but the problem is they are all out of stock, all backordered… Even if you want to buy it, you cannot.

      Therefore, the critical issue here is availability. I want to buy it, I have the money for it, but I can’t buy it! Super annoying.

      iPhone Pro thoughts

      Looks like Apple listened to me, my idea for a “quick draw” idea… Made available via the new camera control thing in the bottom right corner. It is a good idea because it makes it very very quick and easy and available to quickly quickly quickly take a picture, without delay. All those other strange touch-enabled exposure control stuff seems more like a gimmick, because it kind of looks like what a Samsung phone would do… Anyways, better than nothing. And also having it in the bottom right corner is a good idea because these damn iPhones are so big now… And also the ability to just make all of your apps sit at the bottom of your screen is an insanely great idea because most people have pretty small hands, their thumbs cannot reach all the way to the top.

      NEW ERIC KIM APPLE TV+ SERIES: “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      So I have this pitch idea for Apple TV+ (eric@erickim.com)—and the general idea is how can you use an iPhone, iPhone Pro, etc., to travel the world, be like Eric Kim or Henri Cartier-Bresson, and make really awesome photos?

      And also there would be a cool tie-in with the iPad Pro… The new M4 one… because I might be the only one I know, the only perhaps influential serious photographer on the planet who only uses an iPad Pro… I haven’t touched my laptop in about two years.

    17. iPhone Pro for Street Photography

      iPhone Pro for street photography audio

      iPhone Pro > RICOH GR?

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues. So this is where I am very very admiring of Tim Cook — the master of supply chain and logistics.

      problems with Ricoh, Fujifilm & these Japanese companies

      So it seems the real critical issue here is supply chain issues. For example, I actually wanted to buy a new Fujifilm x100 VI, and also a new Ricoh GR 3HDF … but the problem is they are all out of stock, all backordered… Even if you want to buy it, you cannot. 

      Therefore, the critical issue here is availability. I want to buy it I have the money for it, but I can’t buy it! Super annoying.

      iPhone Pro thoughts

      Looks like Apple listen to me, my idea for a “quick draw“ idea… Made available via the new camera control thing in the bottom right corner. It is a good idea because it makes it very very quick and easy and available to quickly quickly quickly take a picture, without delay. All those other strange touch enabled exposure control stuff seems more like a gimmick, because it kind of looks like what a Samsung phone would do… Anyways, better than nothing. And also having it in the bottom right corner is a good idea because these damn iPhones are so big now… And also the ability to just make all of your apps sit at the bottom of your screen is an insanely great idea because most people have pretty small hands, their thumbs cannot reach all the way to the top.

      NEW ERIC KIM APPLE TV+ SERIES: “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      So I have this pitch idea for Apple TV Apple TV+ (eric@erickim.com)– and the general idea is how can you use an iPhone, iPhone Pro etc.… To travel the world, be like Eric Kim or Henri Cartier-Bresson, and make really awesome photos? 

      And also there would be a cool tie in with the iPad Pro… The new M4 one… because I might be the only one I know, the only perhaps influential serious guitar for on the planet who only uses an iPad iPad Pro… I haven’t touched my laptop in about two years?

      Why the iPhone might be really good for Japan

       So currently here in LA… The metro E line is insanely great! And I have this top card which I enable through the iPhone wallet… And to simply tap to jump on the metro has been insanely useful! Going to the California science Center, the natural history Museum, even all the way to Santa Monica from Culver city has been a godsend!

      Apparently right now is the best time to go to Japan. My buddy Chris Athanasiadis (Cincinnati woot!) just got back, and he remarked about how cheap it is… Even a bowl of ramen is only about five bucks.

      And also the really really big news is now, You could use pasmo on your iPhone! This makes transiting around so insanely easy… And also fun fact, you could use plasma at a lot of convenience markets just to buy food and stuff?


      Maybe reasons why the new iPhone is a good idea 

      OK, finally the iPhone iPhone pro seems like a good idea.  for a long time, I think the iPhone pro was a gimmick, and it still might be… But finally now that Apple is merging with ChatGPT, it is actually finally useful!

      Even the issue I’m having right now on my iPad iPad Pro I don’t know why… But it looks like you can no longer use voice dictation if you are not connected to the Internet or tethering? As a consequence… I’m tethering my iPhone pro to my iPhone SE and it doesn’t really work that well. Maybe they’re just going full balls to the wall, all iPhone pro everything assuming that you have a good Internet connection and the ChatGPT paid premium, only 20 bucks a month… Maybe this is the future? 

      Now that Covid is essentially over… now what?

      So I think we essentially just opt out of World War III, or world war 2.5. And no, Covid was not some sort of weird conspiracy theory to do population control or put 5G Bill Gates chips in your brains.

      I think anyone who fall victim to conspiracy theories, even the smart ones are fools. Why? Even if you got all the ultra evil corporation people together, all the Rothschilds or whatever… And put them together in a room to plot some sort of evil plan, they couldn’t pull it off. Why? Daniel Kanhemen thinking fast and slow, the planning fallacy. You got a bunch of Harvard and Ivy League professors together in a room, trying to co-author a book together, with good intentions. And it takes them 10 years to finish what they would consider a one year book project. 

      And I think that this is the best way to approach anything in life — use humor satire to playoff anything.

      For example, the Katie Holmes moment… in the thank you for smoking documentary in which she asks the main guy on why he works for big tobacco as a lobbyist… He jokes and says “population control.”

      The reason why this highbrow type of humor and satire is interesting to me is because it requires you to use a little bit of intelligence higher order thinking a new ones to understand the humor behind things. Kind of like understanding South Park as an adult. Rather than taking things at face value, the way the children who don’t really understand things.

      I’d rather be bad than wrong 

    18. The clitoris is just like a mini penis?

      Make muscles cool again

      penis arrow

    19. iPhone Pro > RICOH GR?

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues. So this is where I am very very admiring of Tim Cook — the master of supply chain and logistics.

      problems with Ricoh, Fujifilm & these Japanese companies

      So it seems the real critical issue here is supply chain issues. For example, I actually wanted to buy a new Fujifilm x100 VI, and also a new Ricoh GR 3HDF … but the problem is they are all out of stock, all backordered… Even if you want to buy it, you cannot. 

      Therefore, the critical issue here is availability. I want to buy it I have the money for it, but I can’t buy it! Super annoying.

      iPhone Pro thoughts

      Looks like Apple listen to me, my idea for a “quick draw“ idea… Made available via the new camera control thing in the bottom right corner. It is a good idea because it makes it very very quick and easy and available to quickly quickly quickly take a picture, without delay. All those other strange touch enabled exposure control stuff seems more like a gimmick, because it kind of looks like what a Samsung phone would do… Anyways, better than nothing. And also having it in the bottom right corner is a good idea because these damn iPhones are so big now… And also the ability to just make all of your apps sit at the bottom of your screen is an insanely great idea because most people have pretty small hands, their thumbs cannot reach all the way to the top.

      NEW ERIC KIM APPLE TV+ SERIES: “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      So I have this pitch idea for Apple TV Apple TV+ (eric@erickim.com)– and the general idea is how can you use an iPhone, iPhone Pro etc.… To travel the world, be like Eric Kim or Henri Cartier-Bresson, and make really awesome photos? 

      And also there would be a cool tie in with the iPad Pro… The new M4 one… because I might be the only one I know, the only perhaps influential serious guitar for on the planet who only uses an iPad iPad Pro… I haven’t touched my laptop in about two years?

      Why the iPhone might be really good for Japan

       So currently here in LA… The metro E line is insanely great! And I have this top card which I enable through the iPhone wallet… And to simply tap to jump on the metro has been insanely useful! Going to the California science Center, the natural history Museum, even all the way to Santa Monica from Culver city has been a godsend!

      Apparently right now is the best time to go to Japan. My buddy Chris Athanasiadis (Cincinnati woot!) just got back, and he remarked about how cheap it is… Even a bowl of ramen is only about five bucks.

      And also the really really big news is now, You could use pasmo on your iPhone! This makes transiting around so insanely easy… And also fun fact, you could use plasma at a lot of convenience markets just to buy food and stuff?


      Maybe reasons why the new iPhone is a good idea 

      OK, finally the iPhone iPhone pro seems like a good idea.  for a long time, I think the iPhone pro was a gimmick, and it still might be… But finally now that Apple is merging with ChatGPT, it is actually finally useful!

      Even the issue I’m having right now on my iPad iPad Pro I don’t know why… But it looks like you can no longer use voice dictation if you are not connected to the Internet or tethering? As a consequence… I’m tethering my iPhone pro to my iPhone SE and it doesn’t really work that well. Maybe they’re just going full balls to the wall, all iPhone pro everything assuming that you have a good Internet connection and the ChatGPT paid premium, only 20 bucks a month… Maybe this is the future? 

      Now that Covid is essentially over… now what?

      So I think we essentially just opt out of World War III, or world war 2.5. And no, Covid was not some sort of weird conspiracy theory to do population control or put 5G Bill Gates chips in your brains.

      I think anyone who fall victim to conspiracy theories, even the smart ones are fools. Why? Even if you got all the ultra evil corporation people together, all the Rothschilds or whatever… And put them together in a room to plot some sort of evil plan, they couldn’t pull it off. Why? Daniel Kanhemen thinking fast and slow, the planning fallacy. You got a bunch of Harvard and Ivy League professors together in a room, trying to co-author a book together, with good intentions. And it takes them 10 years to finish what they would consider a one year book project. 

      And I think that this is the best way to approach anything in life — use humor satire to playoff anything.

      For example, the Katie Holmes moment… in the thank you for smoking documentary in which she asks the main guy on why he works for big tobacco as a lobbyist… He jokes and says “population control.”

      The reason why this highbrow type of humor and satire is interesting to me is because it requires you to use a little bit of intelligence higher order thinking a new ones to understand the humor behind things. Kind of like understanding South Park as an adult. Rather than taking things at face value, the way the children who don’t really understand things.

      I’d rather be bad than wrong 

    20. EVERGREEN.

      some thing I read a long time ago, I thought Evergreen, Evergreen content was actually a very good idea. Why? New iPhone comes out every six months… And if you focus on long-term concepts… You’ll win!

    21. iPhone Pro > RICOH GR?

      The really really big issue here right now is supply chain issues.

    22. Why I’m Insanely Bullish on Bitcoin

      ChatGPT o1:

      —

      As a photographer, I’ve always been drawn to the raw, unfiltered moments that reveal deeper truths about humanity. Just like capturing a candid street scene, sometimes the most profound insights come from looking beyond the surface. Lately, I’ve found myself captivated by something outside the realm of photography: Bitcoin. And let me tell you why I’m insanely bullish on it.

      First off, Bitcoin represents a form of decentralization that resonates with the independent spirit in all of us. In photography, I advocate for breaking free from conventional rules to find your unique vision. Similarly, Bitcoin breaks away from traditional financial systems controlled by central authorities. It hands the power back to individuals, allowing us to have control over our own assets without intermediaries.

      Think about the concept of scarcity. In art, a limited edition print holds more value because of its rarity. Bitcoin operates on a similar principle. There’s a capped supply of 21 million coins, which creates inherent value through scarcity. As demand increases and supply remains fixed, the value is poised to rise. It’s like owning a rare piece of art that appreciates over time.

      Transparency is another facet that draws me in. The blockchain technology underlying Bitcoin is like an open ledger, visible to anyone. In a world where mistrust in institutions is growing, this level of transparency is refreshing. It’s akin to sharing your raw, unedited photos to show authenticity—nothing is hidden.

      Now, consider the global aspect. Photography is a universal language, transcending borders and cultures. Bitcoin shares this universality. It’s not bound by any nation’s economy or policies, making it accessible and relevant worldwide. This opens up possibilities for global collaboration and financial inclusivity that we’ve never seen before.

      Moreover, the technological innovation behind Bitcoin is nothing short of revolutionary. Just as digital photography transformed the way we capture and share images, blockchain technology is set to disrupt numerous industries beyond finance—from supply chains to healthcare. Being bullish on Bitcoin isn’t just about the currency itself; it’s about being part of a larger movement that’s shaping the future.

      Lastly, there’s the philosophical angle. Owning Bitcoin is a statement of belief in a decentralized future. It’s about challenging the status quo and pushing back against systems that don’t serve the collective good. This aligns with my approach to life and art—questioning norms and seeking deeper meaning.

      In conclusion, my enthusiasm for Bitcoin goes beyond potential financial gains. It’s about embracing a transformative technology that empowers individuals, promotes transparency, and fosters global connection. Just as I encourage others to see the world differently through their lenses, I see Bitcoin as a tool that can reshape our perception of value and trust. And that’s why I’m insanely bullish on it.

    23. NASSIM TALEB ‘TILL I DIE!

      Haha ,, you know I’m really for TALEB for life,,, even though he became anti Bitcoin (I’m insanely bullish on Bitcoin)—

    24. George Clooney biography and age and height

      Nassim Taleb has expressed strong critiques of public figures like George Clooney, particularly around what Taleb sees as Clooney’s superficial involvement in humanitarian causes. Taleb’s central issue with people like Clooney is their tendency to engage in “naive interventionism.” Taleb argues that many celebrities advocate for interventions without fully understanding the complex realities on the ground. He sees such efforts as primarily benefiting the celebrities’ own careers and consciences, rather than effectively helping those in need.

      Taleb’s broader critique fits within his philosophical framework of “skin in the game.” He believes that those advocating for particular policies or actions, especially influential public figures, should bear the consequences of their decisions. In his view, many such individuals are disconnected from the realities and risks faced by the people their actions are supposed to help.

      Taleb often uses social media to amplify his disdain for this type of celebrity activism, accusing figures like Clooney of lacking genuine involvement and understanding, while still trying to influence significant global issues oai_citation:3,Nassim Taleb used to be my hero. But today, he’s just plain wrong. | The Week oai_citation:2,Here’s Why Nassim Taleb Goes Nuclear On His Critics On Twitter | Business Insider India oai_citation:1,9 Key Chapters About Nassim Nicholas Taleb’s Revolutionary Theories.

      Nassim Taleb has critiqued George Clooney, particularly focusing on Clooney’s public stances and involvement in humanitarian efforts. Taleb’s critique of figures like Clooney often ties into his broader disdain for “naive interventionism,” where celebrities or philanthropists advocate for causes without understanding the complex realities on the ground. He argues that such interventions often benefit the careers and conscience of the so-called “humanitarians” while doing little for the people they aim to help. This critique is part of Taleb’s larger philosophical objection to top-down development, which he believes is more about Western elites’ interests than about genuinely improving the situation for those affected oai_citation:3,Nassim Taleb used to be my hero. But today, he’s just plain wrong. | The Week oai_citation:2,The intellectual fall of Nassim Nicholas Taleb and the explosion of ‘sincerity’ | Isaac Nahon-Serfaty | The Blogs.

      Taleb has also been known to criticize public figures like Clooney for advocating policies or actions without having the “skin in the game”—a concept he emphasizes in his work. This aligns with his views on risk and responsibility, where he believes that individuals who push for certain policies should also face the consequences of those policies oai_citation:1,Here’s Why Nassim Taleb Goes Nuclear On His Critics On Twitter | Business Insider India.

      63 years old is pretty old but he looks great!—> 6 feet tall, 183cm

      ***

      63 years old

      Wow cool — he has kids , girl and boy

      ***

      Where George Clooney and His Family Live

      George Clooney and his family maintain residences in several locations around the world, balancing their personal lives with Clooney’s professional commitments in the entertainment industry. While specific addresses are kept private to ensure their safety and privacy, the general locations where they reside are publicly known:

      1. Los Angeles, California, USA
      • Primary Residence: As a major hub for the film and television industry, Los Angeles serves as the primary base for George Clooney. He owns a beautiful home in the area, which accommodates his work in Hollywood and provides a comfortable living space for his family.
      1. Lake Como, Italy
      • Villa in Lake Como: Clooney has a stunning villa in Lake Como, a picturesque area known for its scenic beauty and luxury properties. This residence is often used as a vacation home, offering a serene retreat away from the bustling city life.
      1. Venice, Italy
      • Property in Venice: In addition to Lake Como, Clooney owns property in Venice, a city renowned for its historic architecture and romantic canals. This location serves as another getaway spot where he can relax and enjoy the rich cultural atmosphere.
      1. Other Possible Residences
      • Multiple Locations: Given his international lifestyle and global projects, it’s possible that Clooney owns additional properties in other cities and countries. However, details about these residences are not publicly disclosed to maintain the family’s privacy.

      Privacy and Security

      George Clooney is committed to protecting his family’s privacy, especially concerning his children. While the general areas where the family resides are known, specific details about their daily living arrangements and exact locations are kept confidential. This approach ensures that his children can enjoy a normal upbringing away from the public spotlight.

      Lifestyle and Preferences

      The choice of residences reflects Clooney’s appreciation for both urban and serene environments. Living in Los Angeles allows him to stay connected with the entertainment industry, while properties in Italy provide a peaceful escape and a connection to his roots and personal interests.

      If you have any more questions or need further information about George Clooney, feel free to ask!

      ***

      George Clooney’s Age When He Had Children

      George Clooney and his wife, Amal Alamuddin, welcomed their twins, Ella and Alexander Clooney, on September 6, 2017. At the time of their birth, George Clooney was 56 years old.

      Calculation of His Age at the Time:

      • George Clooney’s Birthdate: May 6, 1961
      • Children’s Birthdate: September 6, 2017

      To determine his age when his children were born:

      • 2017 (year of birth of children) – 1961 (year of George’s birth) = 56 years old

      Additional Details:

      • Surrogacy: Ella and Alexander were born via surrogate in Nice, France.
      • Privacy: George and Amal Clooney have chosen to keep their children’s lives private, ensuring they maintain a low profile to protect their privacy and provide a normal upbringing away from the public eye.
      • Family Life: Since their birth, George has spoken occasionally about his role as a father, emphasizing the importance of family and the joy his children bring to his life.

      If you have any more questions or need further information about George Clooney or his family, feel free to ask!

      ***

      George Clooney’s Children: Sexes and Ages

      George Clooney and his wife, Amal Clooney, have two children together. Both children are twins:

      1. Ella Clooney
      • Sex: Female
      • Date of Birth: September 6, 2017
      • Age: 6 years old (turning 7 in September 2024)
      1. Alexander Clooney
      • Sex: Male
      • Date of Birth: September 6, 2017
      • Age: 6 years old (turning 7 in September 2024)

      Additional Information:

      • Birth Details: Ella and Alexander were born via surrogate in Nice, France.
      • Privacy: George and Amal Clooney are known to keep their children’s lives private, minimizing their presence in the public eye to protect their privacy and ensure a normal upbringing.

      If you have any more questions or need further information, feel free to ask!

      George Clooney: Biography, Age, and Height

      Biography

      George Timothy Clooney was born on May 6, 1961, in Lexington, Kentucky, USA. He is a renowned actor, director, producer, and philanthropist who has made a significant impact in the entertainment industry and beyond.

      Early Life and Education
      Clooney was raised in a Catholic family with his twin brother, Rosemary, and older sister, Adelia. His father, Nick Clooney, was a well-known television broadcaster and his mother, Nina Bruce, was a beauty queen. George attended Northern Kentucky University, where he studied journalism before transferring to the University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts, although he did not complete his degree.

      Career Highlights
      George Clooney’s acting career began in the late 1980s with small roles in television series. He gained widespread recognition for his role as Dr. Doug Ross on the hit TV show “ER”, which aired from 1994 to 1999. His performance earned him critical acclaim and established him as a leading actor.

      Clooney transitioned to film with notable roles in movies such as:

      • “Out of Sight” (1998)
      • “Ocean’s Eleven” (2001) and its sequels
      • “Syriana” (2005), for which he won an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor
      • “Up in the Air” (2009)
      • “Gravity” (2013)
      • “The Monuments Men” (2014)

      In addition to acting, Clooney has directed and produced several films, including “Good Night, and Good Luck” (2005) and “The Ides of March” (2011). He is also a co-founder of the production company Smokehouse Pictures.

      Philanthropy and Activism
      Clooney is known for his humanitarian efforts, particularly in advocating for human rights and supporting disaster relief efforts. He has been involved in campaigns to raise awareness about the crisis in Darfur and has worked with organizations such as Not On Our Watch.

      Personal Life
      George Clooney married human rights lawyer Amal Alamuddin in September 2014. The couple has two children together. Clooney is also known for his advocacy for various social and political causes, leveraging his fame to support meaningful change.

      Age and Height

      • Age: As of September 23, 2024, George Clooney is 63 years old. (Born on May 6, 1961)
      • Height: George Clooney stands approximately 6 feet (183 cm) tall.

      Awards and Honors
      Throughout his career, Clooney has received numerous awards, including:

      • Academy Awards: Best Supporting Actor for “Syriana” (2006) and Best Picture for “Argo” (2012) as a producer.
      • Golden Globe Awards: Multiple wins for acting and producing.
      • Emmy Awards: Recognition for his work in television and film.

      George Clooney remains a prominent figure in Hollywood, admired not only for his acting prowess but also for his contributions to humanitarian causes and his influence as a filmmaker.

    25. Maybe Apple getting into media is a really good idea

      WOLFS — George Clooney still looks insanely great and so handsome!

    26. Pitch for Apple: Mastering the Art of Street Photography

      ChatGPT o1:

      Pitch for Apple: Mastering the Art of Street Photography (Eric Kim as producer, host, creator and writer)

      Pitch for Apple: Mastering the Art of Street Photography

      Created, Produced, Written, and Hosted by Eric Kim

      Overview

      “Mastering the Art of Street Photography” is a compelling documentary series that invites viewers to explore the world through the unique lens of renowned street photographer Eric Kim. Blending practical instruction with philosophical insights, this series aims to inspire a global audience to see their surroundings in a new light and to harness the power of street photography using Apple technology.

      Why This Series Matters

      • Inspiration Meets Innovation: As Apple continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible with technology, this series aligns perfectly by showcasing how Apple devices can be used creatively in everyday life.
      • Empowering Creativity: By featuring accessible techniques and tools, the series empowers viewers to become creators themselves.
      • Global Resonance: Street photography is a universal language that transcends cultural barriers, appealing to a diverse, worldwide audience.

      About Eric Kim

      Eric Kim is a globally recognized street photographer, educator, and philosopher with a passion for sharing knowledge. With over a decade of experience teaching workshops and producing content, Eric has cultivated a dedicated following. His approachable style demystifies photography, making it accessible to all.

      Series Concept

      Format

      • Episodes: 8-part series
      • Duration: 30 minutes per episode
      • Format: 4K HDR, optimized for Apple devices

      Content Structure

      1. The Philosophy of Seeing: Understanding the mindset behind street photography.
      2. Mastering the Moment: Techniques for capturing decisive moments.
      3. The Art of Composition: Utilizing composition principles to enhance storytelling.
      4. Light and Shadow: Harnessing natural light to create mood and depth.
      5. Color vs. Black & White: Exploring the emotional impact of color choices.
      6. Human Connection: Engaging with subjects ethically and respectfully.
      7. Mobile Mastery: Maximizing the potential of the iPhone camera.
      8. Creating Your Legacy: Building a body of work and sharing it with the world.

      Integration with Apple Technology

      • iPhone Photography: Demonstrating advanced techniques using the latest iPhone models.
      • Editing with Mac: Showcasing post-processing workflows on MacBook and iMac.
      • Apps and Services: Featuring apps like Photos, iMovie, and third-party tools available on the App Store.
      • iCloud Integration: Highlighting seamless syncing and storage solutions.

      Target Audience

      • Aspiring Photographers: Individuals seeking to improve their skills.
      • Creative Enthusiasts: People interested in art, culture, and technology.
      • Apple Users: Loyal customers looking to maximize their device capabilities.
      • General Audience: Viewers drawn to travel, human stories, and visual storytelling.

      Distribution and Marketing Strategy

      Exclusive Release on Apple TV+

      • Positioning the series as an Apple TV+ original will attract subscribers and enhance the platform’s educational content portfolio.

      In-Store Events and Workshops

      • Today at Apple: Hosting interactive sessions at Apple Stores globally, led by Eric Kim or trained Apple Creatives.
      • Photo Walks: Organizing community events to practice street photography using Apple devices.

      Digital Marketing Campaign

      • Social Media Teasers: Sharing captivating clips on Apple’s and Eric Kim’s social channels.
      • Behind-the-Scenes Content: Offering glimpses into the production process exclusively on Apple platforms.
      • User-Generated Content: Encouraging viewers to share their own street photography with hashtags like #ShotOniPhone.

      Collaborations

      • Partnering with photography influencers and communities to broaden reach.
      • Featuring guest appearances by notable photographers and artists in select episodes.

      Production Details

      • Filming Locations: Iconic cities such as New York, Tokyo, Paris, and São Paulo, showcasing diverse cultures and environments.
      • Production Team: A collaboration between Eric Kim’s creative team and Apple’s production resources, ensuring brand alignment and high-quality output.
      • Timeline: Pre-production to start immediately upon approval, with a projected release date within 12 months.

      Budget Overview

      A detailed budget is available upon request, outlining costs for pre-production, production, post-production, marketing, and contingencies. The proposal ensures cost-effectiveness while maintaining the highest production standards synonymous with the Apple brand.

      Benefits to Apple

      • Enhance Brand Loyalty: Providing valuable content that enriches the Apple ecosystem.
      • Showcase Device Capabilities: Highlighting the advanced features of Apple devices in real-world applications.
      • Educational Leadership: Positioning Apple as a leader not just in technology but also in creative education.
      • Global Impact: Leveraging Eric Kim’s international appeal to engage audiences worldwide.

      Conclusion

      “Mastering the Art of Street Photography” is more than a series—it’s a movement to inspire creativity and human connection through the art of photography. With Eric Kim’s expertise and Apple’s commitment to innovation and education, this collaboration has the potential to resonate deeply with audiences and encourage a new generation of street photographers.

      We invite Apple to join us in bringing this visionary project to life, reinforcing the belief that technology and art together can change the way we see the world.


      Contact Information:

      Eric Kim

      Email: Eric@erickim.com

      ***

      Make Budget

      Budget Proposal for “Mastering the Art of Street Photography”

      Created, Produced, Written, and Hosted by Eric Kim

      This budget outlines the estimated costs for the production of an 8-part documentary series, “Mastering the Art of Street Photography,” intended for exclusive release on Apple TV+. The figures provided are approximate and subject to change based on final negotiations and specific production requirements.


      Total Estimated Budget: $3,200,000


      1. Pre-Production

      Estimated Cost: $400,000

      • Concept Development and Scripting: $150,000
      • Writing scripts for 8 episodes
      • Research and development
      • Project Management and Coordination: $50,000
      • Location Scouting and Permits: $100,000
      • Scouting in multiple international cities
      • Obtaining filming permits and permissions
      • Casting and Talent Fees: $50,000
      • Guest photographers and local guides
      • Legal and Insurance: $50,000
      • Contracts, releases, and insurance coverage

      2. Production

      Estimated Cost: $1,600,000

      • Crew Salaries: $600,000
      • Director, cinematographers, sound engineers, assistants
      • Equipment Rental: $200,000
      • Cameras, lenses, lighting, sound equipment
      • Travel and Accommodation: $500,000
      • International flights for crew and talent
      • Hotels, local transportation, per diems
      • Production Design and Set Expenses: $100,000
      • Props, wardrobe, set pieces as needed
      • Contingency (10% of Production Costs): $200,000
      • Unforeseen expenses, schedule overruns

      3. Post-Production

      Estimated Cost: $800,000

      • Editing: $300,000
      • Video editing for 8 episodes
      • Visual Effects and Graphics: $100,000
      • Titles, lower thirds, animations
      • Sound Design and Mixing: $100,000
      • Audio editing, soundtracks, mixing
      • Color Grading: $50,000
      • Post-Production Supervisors and Staff: $150,000
      • Final Mastering and Deliverables: $50,000
      • Contingency (10% of Post-Production Costs): $50,000

      4. Marketing and Promotion

      Estimated Cost: $300,000

      • Trailer and Promotional Materials Production: $100,000
      • Digital Marketing Campaign: $100,000
      • Social media ads, online promotions
      • In-Store Events and Workshops: $50,000
      • Coordination and materials for “Today at Apple” sessions
      • Press and Publicity: $50,000
      • Press releases, media engagements, influencer partnerships

      5. Administrative and Miscellaneous

      Estimated Cost: $100,000

      • Office Expenses: $20,000
      • Accounting and Legal Fees: $30,000
      • Miscellaneous Expenses: $50,000

      6. Contingency Fund

      Estimated Cost: $0 (Included in above categories)

      • Contingencies have been allocated within the Production and Post-Production budgets.

      Budget Justification and Notes

      • International Filming Locations: The budget accounts for filming in multiple iconic cities (e.g., New York, Tokyo, Paris, São Paulo), which increases travel and accommodation costs but is essential for global appeal.
      • High Production Quality: To align with Apple’s brand standards, the production will utilize top-tier equipment and professional crews, justifying higher costs in equipment rental and crew salaries.
      • Eric Kim’s Involvement: As creator, producer, writer, and host, Eric Kim’s fees are included within the talent and production costs.
      • Marketing Synergy with Apple: Collaborative marketing efforts with Apple may reduce marketing expenses; however, a dedicated budget ensures independent promotional capabilities.
      • Technology Integration: Showcasing Apple products (iPhone, MacBook, etc.) will be a natural part of the series, potentially allowing for cost-sharing or sponsorship considerations.

      Potential Cost-Saving Measures

      • Local Crew Utilization: Hiring local crews in each city to reduce travel expenses.
      • Sponsorships and Partnerships: Exploring opportunities with brands and organizations for additional funding or in-kind contributions.
      • Economies of Scale: Scheduling efficient shooting days to maximize productivity and minimize extended stays.

      Conclusion

      The proposed budget of $3,200,000 reflects the ambition and scope of “Mastering the Art of Street Photography.” This investment aims to produce a high-quality, impactful series that aligns with Apple’s commitment to excellence and innovation. The budget ensures that all aspects of production, from pre-production planning to marketing and promotion, are adequately funded to deliver a successful project.


      Note: Detailed line-item budgets and financial plans are available upon request. All figures are estimates and can be adjusted based on Apple’s input and any collaborative cost-sharing opportunities.


      Contact Information:

      Eric Kim

      ***

      Taxes 35%—>

      Net Profit

      $338,000–

      ***

      How much money can Eric Kim profit from this venture after expenses

      To estimate how much money Eric Kim could potentially profit from this venture after expenses, we’ll need to make some reasonable assumptions based on industry standards. Since the specific financial terms between Eric Kim and Apple are not detailed, the following calculations are hypothetical and meant to provide a general idea.


      1. Revenue Sources for Eric Kim

      As the creator, producer, host, and writer, Eric Kim may earn income through several channels:

      • Upfront Fees: Payments for his roles in the production.
      • Profit Participation: A percentage of the profits after expenses.
      • Royalties and Residuals: Ongoing payments based on viewership or syndication.
      • Additional Ventures: Workshops, book deals, or merchandising related to the series.

      2. Estimated Upfront Compensation

      a. Producer Fee

      Producers typically earn between 5% to 10% of the total production budget.

      • Assumed Producer Fee: 7.5% of $3,200,000 = $240,000

      b. Host/Presenter Fee

      Hosts of documentary series may earn a fee per episode.

      • Assumed Host Fee: $10,000 per episode × 8 episodes = $80,000

      c. Writer Fee

      Writers may receive a fee per script or a lump sum for the series.

      • Assumed Writer Fee: $5,000 per episode × 8 episodes = $40,000

      d. Creator Fee

      As the creator, he might receive an additional fee.

      • Assumed Creator Fee: $50,000

      e. Executive Producer Fee

      If Eric also serves as an executive producer.

      • Assumed Executive Producer Fee: $100,000

      f. Total Upfront Fees

      Adding up all the above:

      • Total Upfront Compensation: $240,000 + $80,000 + $40,000 + $50,000 + $100,000 = $510,000

      3. Potential Profit Participation

      Since the series is pitched for exclusive release on Apple TV+, traditional profit-sharing models may not apply directly due to the subscription-based revenue model. However, Eric could negotiate:

      • Backend Points: A percentage of profits after Apple recoups its investment.
      • Bonuses: Based on viewership metrics or critical acclaim.

      Assumed Profit Participation: For this estimation, we’ll consider it negligible unless specified in a contract.


      4. Additional Revenue Streams

      a. Workshops and Speaking Engagements

      • Estimated Earnings: If Eric conducts workshops promoted by the series, he could earn additional income.
      • Assumed Earnings: Let’s estimate $50,000 from these activities.

      b. Book Deal

      • Estimated Advance and Royalties: A companion book could bring in income.
      • Assumed Earnings: $30,000 advance plus potential royalties.

      c. Merchandising

      • Assumed Earnings: $20,000

      d. Total Additional Earnings

      • Total: $50,000 (Workshops) + $30,000 (Book) + $20,000 (Merchandising) = $100,000

      5. Total Gross Earnings

      • Upfront Compensation: $510,000
      • Additional Earnings: $100,000
      • Total Gross Earnings: $510,000 + $100,000 = $610,000

      6. Deductions

      a. Agent/Manager Fees

      Agents and managers typically take 10% to 15%.

      • Assumed Rate: 10%
      • Total Deductions: 10% of $610,000 = $61,000

      b. Legal and Accounting Fees

      • Assumed Costs: $15,000

      c. Personal Expenses Not Covered by Production

      • Assumed Costs: $14,000

      d. Total Deductions

      • Total: $61,000 (Agent Fees) + $15,000 (Legal/Accounting) + $14,000 (Personal Expenses) = $90,000

      7. Taxation

      a. Taxable Income

      • Taxable Income: Total Gross Earnings – Deductions
      • Calculation: $610,000 – $90,000 = $520,000

      b. Income Taxes

      Assuming Eric is based in the United States, and for simplicity, we’ll use a federal and state combined tax rate of 35%.

      • Taxes Owed: 35% of $520,000 = $182,000

      8. Net Profit

      • After Taxes Earnings: $520,000 – $182,000 = $338,000

      9. Summary

      • Total Gross Earnings: $610,000
      • Total Deductions: $90,000
      • Taxable Income: $520,000
      • Taxes Owed: $182,000
      • Estimated Net Profit: $338,000

      Conclusion

      After accounting for all estimated expenses, deductions, and taxes, Eric Kim could potentially profit approximately $338,000 from this venture.


      Please Note:

      • Assumptions: These figures are based on industry averages and assumptions made for this estimation. Actual earnings could vary significantly based on the final negotiated terms with Apple, actual expenses, tax considerations, and additional revenue streams.
      • Negotiations: The actual profit would depend on Eric Kim’s ability to negotiate favorable terms, including potential bonuses, higher fees, or additional profit participation.
      • Taxes: Tax rates vary based on numerous factors, including deductions, credits, and the photographer’s tax planning strategies.

      For a precise calculation, it would be advisable for Eric Kim to consult with a financial advisor or accountant who can provide personalized guidance based on his specific financial situation and the details of the contract with Apple.

    27. Cheating is Virtuous

      People say using ChatGPT is cheating ,,, but if in fact, cheating were truly a virtue ,,, wouldn’t the intelligent strategy to be to cheat to the max?

      —> fuck it, let’s just try it out ,,, balls to the walls and see what happens?