FOR ALL THE CREATIVE INDIVIDUALS

I gave it some thought about writing a post like this for awhile now, but always put it aside and never got around doing it because I don't want to create unnecessary problems. However, it's something that I've been dealing with and I'm sure other individuals have too, whether online or offline. I think that this matter is not to be taken lightly, and that you should read it with an open mind. 

Many of my friends on Instagram (I have friends in real life too, just saying) have briefly mentioned to me about how they felt that their work might have been copied by others and yes I feel them. But let's be honest here, no one is 100% original. You just can't, there must be something somewhere that sparked that idea and therefore you did it. I do admit that there are times when I'm out of creativity and have to go through magazines or blogs to be inspired, but that doesn't mean I copy. There's a fine line between copying and being inspired. Copying is taking and uploading a photo of a book flipped to the same page out of 208 pages, after having history. This is definitely not as simple as being inspired. Meanwhile, being inspired could mean, recreating a flatlay of things you love after seeing it on someone's account. Note: the items shouldn't all be exactly the same though. This is based solely on my own opinions and you can argue otherwise. 

If you've been following my Instagram since last year or so (thank you for the support btw), you would've known about the issues I've dealt with certain 'repeat offenders'. I am respecting those individuals and will definitely not be naming them in this post, and I hope that the respect can be mutual. Because how long you want this feud to carry on? 10 years? 20 years? 

As a creative individual, it takes time for me to plan and style my shots. Nothing ever happens so coincidentally, unless it's a photo of the sun setting. I take the time and effort to produce a shot, that would hopefully keep you entertained even for that 1 second as you scroll past. And all that I ask from you, is not a like or a comment, but some respect for my photos! 

Let's put aside all that jealousy and hatred for once, and as you read the next few questions give it a thought.

How would you like it if someone insulted you for not having any talents? 

How would you like it if someone just took a screenshot of your photo, and upload it onto their own account without giving credits?

I'm not claiming that I'm talented, and neither have I been bragging about the amount of followers or fame on Instagram. I've said this so many times, BUT FOR THE LAST TIME, I DO NOT brag about the followers I have on Instagram to people I meet in real life. Because what's the point? I am blessed to be where I am right now, and I do not take that for granted. I genuinely appreciate every new follower and opportunity that I've been given, as it has helped me to grow and improve on my skills. 

After going through it so many times, I'm no longer affected by what has happened and all that I want is a more harmonious community, for creative individuals to share without fearing that their idea or photo might get stolen. Don't restrict yourself and your creativity, for some people that aren't even worth your time. I hope I never have to write a post like this again. Okay, now it's back to the books! ○

Stay gold, xx
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