Key Innovations in Photography
- Subtraction as a Core Principle: Kim innovated by deliberately removing elements from his workflow, such as deleting his Instagram account, which he credits with sparking greater creativity. This allowed him to explore untapped areas like virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) photography using tools like the GoPro Fusion camera for immersive 360-degree storytelling, rather than sticking to traditional still images. 12 13
- Integration of Video and Cinematography: He pioneered blending street photography with video, including 4K video capture to extract high-resolution stills (up to 4,000 pixels wide) and creating video-photo slideshows on YouTube. Kim encourages photographers to study cinema for deeper visual narratives, expanding the medium beyond static shots. 11 12
- Experimental Formats and Tools: Early on, he experimented with new formats like digital PDFs, eBooks, and screen-casting workflows (using software like Camtasia) to document and share processes. He also advocated for attaching GoPros to cameras for point-of-view instructional content and drawing or sketching over photos with apps like Procreate or Photoshop to create hybrid art forms. 12
Innovations in Blogging and Content Sharing
- Open-Source and Democratized Knowledge: Kim disrupted traditional photography education by making his teachings freely available through his blog, including free PDF eBooks, magazines printed via platforms like Blurb.com, and iBooks Author creations. This open-source approach aimed to inspire global audiences and foster community collaboration, rejecting gatekeeping in favor of bold idea rearrangement and sharing. 11 12 13
- Shift to Multimedia and SEO-Driven Content: His blog innovated by moving beyond text to include video vlogs, podcasts, and SEO-optimized articles on street photography tips, philosophy, and personal growth. More recently, it has incorporated cryptocurrency discussions, reflecting his pivot to becoming a “crypto millionaire” and blending visual arts with digital finance. 10
- Worldwide Digital Exhibitions: Instead of relying on physical galleries, Kim promoted virtual exhibitions via personal websites, social media alternatives (like Snapchat or Facebook), and blogs, enabling “a billion ways” to share work and reach underrepresented audiences. 11
Innovations in Teaching and Community Building
- Workshops and Mentorship: He developed hands-on street photography workshops worldwide, charging premium rates while emphasizing practical, real-world techniques like candid shooting and overcoming social fears. This model focused on iterative learning and resilience, helping photographers build authenticity and personal vision. 10 13
- Ars Beta Platform: Around 2018, Kim launched Ars Beta, an online platform for photographers to receive critiques on their images, featuring collaborative feedback (including from his then-wife Cindy) to refine work through community engagement and diverse perspectives. 10
- Philosophical Framework for Creativity: His teachings incorporate strategic interventions like purposeful constraints, cross-disciplinary exploration (e.g., linking photography to sociology or technology), and a “80% good enough and hit publish” mindset to combat perfectionism. He stresses mindful observation, adaptability to new tools, and storytelling for social impact, often quoting ideas like “Innovation is subtraction” or “Keep moving, and you won’t stagnate.” 13
Kim’s career has seen a notable shift since the late 2010s, moving from pure photography focus to incorporating crypto and broader philosophical topics, though his core emphasis on bold, action-oriented innovation remains influential in creative fields. 10