Could you introduce yourself in a few lines so that our community can get to know you better? How would you define your style/universe?
My name is Déborah, I'm nearly 22 and I've always been passionate about art in general. I recently graduated and have been working as a 3D graphic designer for almost a year. I've always found it hard to take responsibility for myself and dare to stand out from the crowd. In junior high and high school, I was rather shy and plain, following fashion and blending in. Certain events in my life made me want to change that. As a lifelong fan of rock/punk/etcI decided at university that I had to stand up for myself, so I adopted a rock/grunge style that I've continued to perfect over the years. I now feel better about myself and I'm convinced that this is partly thanks to that. I've also always been a fan of Japanese culture. That's why, in my world, you can also find rock'n'rollonly Disney, only kawaii.
When was your blog created?
I had created a blog, but I stopped it. Lack of time and motivation too, I admit. As a result, I don't have a blog, but a instagram which I've been holding for 2 or even 3 years now. It's just like a blog to me. I feed it on a daily basis and exchange with my community and my followers.
What triggered you to get involved in blogging and social networking?
A break-up. I was the kind of person who lived for others and felt terribly lonely or bored away from my friends or lover. And one day, my little world of love collapsed. I needed to find something to occupy my mind, to occupy my time. Something in which I can fully invest myself and, above all, surround myself with new people. I already had an account instagram at the time, but I wasn't paying attention, there were hardly any photos, I wasn't taking it seriously and I didn't know what to post. Then, after the breakup, I got involved.
How much time do you spend on your articles or videos? youtube ? Production, editing...? Do you have any organizational tips for other bloggers and others? youtubers ?
When I have the time, I can spend several hours finding the right angle, the right background, the right idea for enhancing my photos. instagram. But generally speaking, they're photos taken without too much headache, requiring 5 minutes of shooting and 5 minutes of retouching. I don't have any specific advice for the others. instagrammers like me, except to remain natural, and at least a little active with their community.
Which community are you targeting?
I'm targeting people who want to see something other than dream photos and white background photos with a perfect feed. I'm targeting people who are hungry for originality, renewal, style and rock, but who also want to see cute things, good deals and Disney.
Where do you find most of your inspiration? And which social networks do you use most?
The network I use the most is undoubtedly instagram. And I often find my inspiration on the social network Pinterest or by following other American or British bloggers who also have their own style or universe.
How do you manage your time, between family, work, social networking and blogging?
I usually post on the train in the morning, before I get to work. At work, as soon as I get a little break I check I reply if I have any comments, private messages or questions. I take the time at lunch break to check my news feed and go to like/comment photos of people I already follow and discover new accounts. I also do it in the evenings on the way home, in public transport. Otherwise I'm taking advantage of the weekend to have some time to take a few photos, which I'll post later in the week.
Did one collaboration/partnership stand out for you more than others? And if so, which one?
I've been lucky enough to collaborate with a number of brand. Both small and large, as well as individuals starting their own business. So I don't particularly have one partnership that I've enjoyed more than another, because I already consider myself lucky to have the chance to collaborate with different brands on a regular basis.
What would you like to undertake or develop next?
Of course, I'd love it if my instagram and my community grow, so that there's even more exchange and interaction. But if it doesn't work or takes a long time, that's okay. I'm in no hurry. I don't have any particular expectations for my instagram.
Do you produce your own visuals and photos? And if so, what equipment do you use?
All the photos were taken by me. And if, by chance, I dare to use someone else's photo, I take care to cite my source and the author's credit. Otherwise I just use my phone, which is a Samsung. Galaxy S7.
What advice would you give to others influencers of the community? And what would you say is your main secret to success?
Staying true to yourself. Don't overdo it. Don't post too much, but don't post nothing. Try to be regular and active. Be understanding, courteous and caring. And above all, be patient. In my opinion, this is the key to success on instagram.
What does being a blogger mean to you on a daily basis?
Lots to talk about. I feel "loved" or rather appreciated. People appreciate who I am and what I do. I'm grateful for all that. I learn a lot every day and discover new things. But above all, I've made real friends through this network, and that's the best part.
What do you think of Value Your Network? Do you have any specific comments you'd like us to improve?
I just find that there's little collaboration possible with instagram although, in my opinion, it's an emarginating platform for partnerships. But otherwise I have nothing to say. It's clear, it's got everything, the site is easy to understand and the collaborations are correct.
Thanks to Grungy Marmaid for this interview. We'll leave you the links to her various pages for the more inspired among you!
INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/grungy.mermaid/
BLOG: http://grungymermaid.blogspot.fr/
TWITTER: https://twitter.com/Grungy_Mermaid
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