a wake up call for creators in 2024

Do you agree with any of my points or am I crazy lol let me know!
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#instagram #socialmedia #filmmaking
Video Chapters:
0:00 - Intro
1:00 - The Engagement Pyramid Scheme
2:34 - Passive Content
4:13 - The Effect
5:43 - The Solution Question Mark
8:15 - Outro
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A 2024 film by Michael Bliss.

[@garwim2k]

The great thing about social media is that everyone has a platform. The worst thing about social media is that EVERYONE has a platform 😮

[@michaeldbliss]

aha yes. I think it's great but the problem is everyone conforms to the same stuff. Actually if everyone was just authentically themselves I think it would be a lot more interesting.

[@UFOBobTV]

It was the best of times, it was the worst of times, it was the age of wisdom, it was the age of foolishness… - from A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens.

[@klarkolofsson]

Yep and you can say that about the internet as a whole.

[@akashbart2765]

@@michaeldbliss But being authentic is easier said than done. We are constantly being shaped by our environment, the people and the content around us. The line between being authentic and not is getting blurrier day by day. Everyone might be unique but not everyone can constantly come up with unique ideas - hence repeated contents, following trends, millions of videos using same template and so on.

[@UnknownSageMaster]

I agree, the problem is not that we all have a platform. Its that we lose the individuality that we should be sharing, by conforming to the copy league that social media has become. It becomes counterproductive, but it is truly a gift for us to have platforms to share lives and be more connected than any point in human history (when done correctly, with unique and individual creativity)

[@rsanzi]

"We are losing the meaningful, quieter content in the midst of all of the yelling". Thanks for that

[@TheAlvatorreGarden]

ABSOLUTELY THIS!! Im soooo tired of seeing reels with trending sounds that are 7 seconds long and say "Read the description"...NO, just talk to me. Who are you? What do you do? Are you my people?

[@AlexAntonn]

agree w u

[@michaeldbliss]

hahahah sameee

[@thestellarelite]

I can't stand these manipulative reels lol. It's very transparent and I'm sure at one point some guru told everyone to do it hence the infestation!

[@Lovely04931]

same, it's very annoying for me, I mean it's hard for you to tell us. 😐😅

[@thefitnesshutch8903]

Yet I can do reels where I talk about real life stuff in the fitness and health industry and no one watches them.

[@NukaVaultReadiness]

Make KZbin what it once was, a place where we wanted to learn or sit and watch a creator give us their form of art.

[@michaeldbliss]

i like the sound of that

[@DanBen_hands_on]

Yes most of my skills come from KZbin

[@craftyrouze]

It still is that. You just need to watch only what you subscribed to and if that seems fake, then unsubsribe and search for real creators. They are out there.

[@PrepperPotpourri]

I so so agree!

[@teeLovesLife]

exactly

[@scotttucker9613]

I hate that the term “creatives” has been co-opted by people who are largely unskilled, uninteresting, uninspired and not creative as all they do is chase algorithms. Too many people think they should be able to make a living by simply posting on social media. That is a totally fringe proposition. What I’ve done is close down most of my socials and the ones that are up are largely unmonitored and point people to my website. Creating for ME and not for an algorithm has been immensely freeing. If people stumble upon it, great. If they don’t, I won’t lose sleep over it.

[@michaeldbliss]

I think you nailed it when you said create for yourself and if people see it great. That's essentially what I'm trying to do with these videos on this channel. Even this video I felt compelled to make just because I've had so many discussions with people lately about how frustrated they are as well. I wonder if we will start to see any shift with people losing more interest on these platforms more and more.

[@ElectroTone]

@@michaeldblissThe main problem you in particular may be facing is that you are active on social media with a subject, landscape photography, which is trivial to learn and copy by others. You are in a saturated market, where you cannot stand out. Every channel here on KZbin that I keep coming back to, has content based on personal experience and/or access, which makes the subject impossible - or at the very least very, very hard - for others to copy. Frequently combined with a unique perspective, theme or core idea. As a personal anecdote I have been dabbling with photography on a hobbyist level for 25 odd years, and even then I wouldn't dream of trying to compete in the photo niche on any of the social media platforms. There are literally billions of high quality digital cameras out there today. Statistically I wouldn't be able to stand out from the crowd, no matter what I did. However, I happen to also have 45 years of experience in a particular technical field (which is not computers. I can handle those as well.) Combine this with a collection of related physical objects, collected over an identical time span, which could lend authenticity and authority to any video discussions or guides I might make. My experience with photo and computers would then just serve to make it easier for me to create videos, should I choose to do so. The bottom line is that it would be nigh impossible for practically anybody to copy videos I could make on the subject. You appear to have started backwards: "Have camera. WTB unique KZbin/IG/TikTok niche".

[@bngr_bngr]

I applaud these non scientists that can figure out the algorithm.

[@DarneIITV]

Well said

[@madebyjonny7637]

i recommend listening to Mike Monteiro's take on the erm creative. I have to agree with it, I feel like it devalues what people do. A photographer might not be able to do what an illustrator does, they shouldn't be categorised the same, own your craft.

[@bkollective]

Great to see so many others feeling the same lately. The current short form environment is mentally draining and leaves me feeling not only unproductive but just overall bad about myself

[@craftyrouze]

I see a very simple solution. It's up to you. Don't watch that format. Actively go into the accounts of people you follow, bscause algorithm might have hidden their content from you in your feed. Look at what they posted. Comment if you really feel like they deserved your time. Simply be mindful.

[@user-lz4co2xi3x]

sameeee

[@WhatashameMaryJane]

@@craftyrouze It's up to you to a certain degree, you're right. But let's not ignore that there are multi billion dollar companies that invest in techniques to make us all hooked to that format.

[@ChrisMustermann]

I can confirm one thing: I myself am completely bored by the same things shown on Instagram over and over again. I am also a photographer, but I am not posting on IG since 2021.

[@michaeldbliss]

yep, I don't feel like much is exciting over there anymore either

[@kypetrolhead]

I used to use instagram as a photographer to be inspired and to share my work, now it’s just garbage mostly. KZbin is all I use anymore. I don’t do photography anymore but I just make videos for fun as a creative outlet. But even KZbin is focused on shorts.

[@KristenMcNamara]

Feeding the algorithm is essentially feeding what people are wanting right now, they are getting burnt out with fast moving loud, chaotic content. You just have to stay true to what works for you and what makes you happy, it’s hard to do that if it feels like no one seeing your videos, or hearing your music in my case. The Internet is Going through another shift right now and all of us are feeling it, hang in there, everyone!

[@TheGeminiSociety]

I've been feeling the same way. It feels as if there is no room for authenticity. It seems like every video has to be "useful", quick, entertaining, numbing and generally a distraction. The saddest part imo is that due to this mentality, most videos that are actually worth watching, get less attention than others even if they happen to be more valuable than the regular content people consume nowadays.

[@michaeldbliss]

sometimes that's life though isn't it? we listen to the loud screaming people when we should be asking the quiet ones what they are thinking.. or maybe I'm just thinking about this too deeply now lol

[@DrivenByJason]

I agreed. As a youtuber starting out I went down this rabbit hole about audience retention, how to do thumbnails, etc. At the end of the day, I realized I just need to identify my audience and make videos for them. I try not to following video trends but get inspired by creators that are doing great videos to improve my work.

[@michaeldbliss]

that's a great mindset! obviously its smart to think a little bit about distribution but at the end of the day you have to make what inspires you. what would you watch? if you would watch it, there's probably a good audience for it

[@dirtcopdualsport]

I'm trying to revamp my channel and make good videos and not chase algorithm as well!

[@jimmyha5212]

The inherent conceit of all of this is the "content." Everything is "content" now. Your proposal is to be more selective in what "content" you consume, but your argument is still framed in the context of "content." The real escape isn't through filtering what you consume, it's through consuming less. At times, the KZbin "content" gets glaringly obvious. Sometimes you have to watch half a video before the video gets to the point. Because padding the runtime is more important than being meaningful

[@michaeldbliss]

yes I would definitely agree with you! I guess I should have included that as well that obviously being more selective with your time and consuming less is ideal, but the point I was hoping to make is that if you are consuming content, to be a bit more mindful of the quality of it. Are you learning something from it or is it improving your life in any way? As an example.

[@rebeccacabage]

KZbin is hands down the best platform and I think you perfectly articulated why ... active selection of the content we consume

[@michaeldbliss]

better for the viewer, better for the filmmaker!

[@wmehsstudio]

Creative media has little to no shelf life anymore. As kids to could purchase a CD or buy albums/songs for your iPod/phone. Those purchases gave your media more value. They stuck with you. Everything is streamed now. Hear a song or watch a show that you like, it’s out of sight, out of mind in a month or so. As a creator I suck at keeping up my social presence because of the exact reasons you discuss in your video. I spend more time working on my love for and the craft of my trade. There is so much noise out there. I’d rather say nothing until I have something impactful to say. Thank you for taking the time to make this video. Honestly, it was therapeutic to know that I’m not alone. Thank you for opening a forum for people to share.

[@JackieDElia]

I’m over the entire feeding the algorithm monster. I spend most of my social media time on KZbin - long form content. As a creator, I’m just making videos that are helpful to others. Forget the algorithm! Just be your authentic self. Your audience will find you. It just did. I’m subscribing to your channel.

[@thelifewithnate]

PREACH! Learned that way with my other creative project that I have been doing for a full year, my audience found me since I am based in the DC area and I also focus on embassy events! :D

[@goldmayberry4097]

Great comment👍

[@NYBwithC]

Thank you! Like...forget the algorithm!

[@ayokikando]

This was a phenomenal video and everything I’ve been feeling. I want to create “content” about what I like but I don’t want to play the social media, retention, engagement, game. That shouldn’t stop me from creating and I won’t let it. I just need to know who I am, what I stand for and stick to what makes ME happy, regardless of who wants to watch or not. Thank you for this video.🙏🏿

[@goldmayberry4097]

Great comment👍👏

[@michaeldbliss]

yes! create what you want and what you would watch or enjoy. If you would watch it, theres got to be an audience for it out there

[@NYBwithC]

@ayokikando thank you! We reason alike.

[@flipnwhipz]

"the fact that you are here watching this means you clicked on this video" Yep! and you just got a new sub. I agree completely with pretty much every point you touched on here.

[@TheMBalmEffect]

Same. Everything was spot on in this video.

[@elyas_s1999]

I resonate with this whole vid. That’s why I started putting all my focus into KZbin

[@WheeLifeChic]

I have been feeling very similar about social media lately. Everyone is selling something or lying, I love the 'engagement pyramid scheme' that explains it perfectly. But I do think in some ways youtube is changing (for the better). A lot of people are nostalgic for the feeling of instagram in the early days. People posted anything! It was fun. And I think the people craving that are creating that here on youtube. I have seen more vlogs, people just being themselves, 'slowness', silent vlogs, more cinematic, thoughtful, and introspective content. Which I am so here for!! Great vid

[@hendrikwiekenberg]

I (52) only discovered filmmaking as my new hobby in January 2024 and now, three months later (April), I have a much greater understanding of this creative work than I did years ago. As a creative artist, you always put more work and love into a project than it would be appreciated by strangers. That's why I do it primarily for myself and my personal "development", and not to impress other people. What's more, attention spans are much shorter these days than they were 15 or 20 years ago. Many people simply can't concentrate on one thing for more than three to four minutes at most. This is another reason why I think my 10-minute project (when it is finished) will hardly attract any interest. So my conclusion: First and foremost, private filmmakers should make films for themselves and not for others. If I upload my film to KZbin at some point and it gets a lot of "I don't likes", then I simply don't care - someone always has something to criticize about someone. IF it was at least clearly formulated, factual criticism, then I could live with it. But just "thumbs down" without any justification is bullshit.

[@jonldronevideos]

I totally agree with you on the attention spans folk have today. I’ve had a channel for about 3 years. Convenient place to store my videos online and share. It started to pick up traction and certain subjects get more views than others. I’d post a 5 minute video and it will average around 2 minutes of watch time, maybe more, sometimes less. I enjoy the whole process of making the video, if others enjoy it then that’s a bonus. My purpose in making films was to be self indulgent and have a creative outlet. I think that’s what most people miss. Hope your filmmaking goes well

[@NormaNight]

I'm so glad another creator is talking about this! I've been feeling the exact same way in the U.K and when I talk to my fellow creatives, they don't seem to feel the same way? They're just happy they don't have to spend as much time making content. However for me personally, I'm so tired of trends and scrollable content. I'm tired of viewing it and creating it. So I'm back focusing on youtube and it feels so much better. I think KZbin will eventually have a big revival.

[@csayban]

New sub. Love the content. You hit the nail on the head. My posting on social media actually made me stop wanting to photograph. I fell into a terrible rut. Finally, I gave up on social media and focused on printing my photos and creating books of my photography and suddenly I felt happy and inspired again. I get a lot of inspiration from KZbin creators like you, but otherwise, I would rather be out in the woods with my camera.

[@SaturdayisDadurdaymedia]

Excellent points - as a newer and small creator, I feel frustrated at the idea of having to follow the almighty algorithm … so, I don’t. I’m ramping up my KZbin content, because as you said, that is where you can actually connect with people and that’s what I enjoy. I really dislike the idea of hoping on Canva and trying to figure out another post. No one needs to see another generic inspirational quote. Thanks for posting this video.

[@sachindavefilms5805]

I absolutely agree with your views, as recently I went through the same phase. I agree that the core of film making and essence has shifted massively. the new age content has been taken over by the algorhythms and viewership needs. However, I have decided to still stick to my original style as I believe just like fashion trends, film making trends will again make a comeback. I believe every maker has their own unique styles and forte, and no one should shift from there. we just keep making and filter out the unwanted stuff from our digital lives.

[@putribrikke21]

I like the way you deliver your messages on the video! You're cute and funny too lol *that's also important to amuse the audience. Best wishes!

[@lostinadmiration]

Thank you so much for putting into words so eloquently what so many of us have been feeling! KZbin definitely feels to me like a platform where you can provide most value and learnt the most. It also takes more effort and skill as you said, but that’s just part of the equation! Very excited to be seeing more of you here and thank you again for this video

[@DanielKouba]

Dude great vid and so relatable haha. I completely switched off social media last year and just use it to share updates on work I’ve done and it has freed up so much mental headspace it’s wild. One of the easiest ways to improve mental health for real

[@michaeldbliss]

honestly that sounds so great haha I think I'm going to get back on it now cuz I have some work coming up with it but I definitely am going to be working on spending less mental energy on it that's a great point. I think that's the biggest thing is it's a constant cycle of oh what do I need to post today, and that gets to be overwhelming pretty fast when you are just living to feed that content machine so to speak.

[@ryanscottjohnson]

Honestly, these platforms are built for monetization. At the end of the day, they have shareholders and revenue goals. The platforms are built to make money, first and foremost. There was a time when social media was more altruistic: building community, sharing memories, interacting with friends. The very purpose of these platforms changed. Now, they are like content casinos, bright flashing lights, meant to hook you and engage you to get more money out of you. As a content marketer, I'm guilty. Maybe we all are. As a content creator and marketer, sometimes I wonder if a career change is in my future.

[@michaeldbliss]

wow content casinos.. that is so true

[@Richard_Lutz]

This is spot on. I’ve spent so much time mindlessly scrolling. I think social media is important but I want to make work that has more depth.

[@goldmayberry4097]

Great comment👍👍

[@Danjco1]

Thank you for this. The algorithm monster is definitely pulling down my inspiration. But focusing on other creative measures outside the social media bubble I believe is key. I want to not just build YT I want to build a vast sunset of new skills.

[@scotdotwtf]

i totally agree, as someone who has a passion for making beautiful films it’s so hard when your brain is just shut down into rot

[@faijatyylit]

I agree with you. That's why I like to watch youtube because there is more than 90 second videos and also I think I have more "control" or what so ever. And also even if it's a podcast or just video with talk, it's nice to watch it in bigger screen. But at the same time (though I don't have any motives to get lot of followers) people told me they would like to watch short videos on Instagram rather than longer versions on KZbin 😅

[@jacktheIV44]

Every day when I go onto Instagram, I feel nothing watching other people’s content there. But every day when I come on to KZbin, I find videos like this one that are unique, interesting, creative, and thought-provoking.

[@techl]

We need this wake up call everyday. Also, not just this video, but all the comments here from other friends are all so wise.

[@michaeldbliss]

I've been pleasantly surprised with how thoughtful and in-depth almost all of the comments have been here so far!

[@vatosgym]

I am 100% on board with the points you made. As a professional photographer who's trying to develop a nutrition/training channel with a particula concept and video duration ranging between 10 and 50 minutes per episode, I see a major difference between the people who watch and comment on long form and the ones that only consume shorts. Some of my shorts were getting 25-30k, which for the limited audience of a small country like Bulgaria is massive. Despite this, I decided that all subscribers coming from 'golden fish' attention span videos under 60 seconds are doing mostly harm to the channel community and as a result deleted all my shorts from the channel. Everyone said I was crazy at the time, but in the long run that's the best thing I could have done. Subscriber growth grinded to a halt but the quality of the audience remained where I'd like it to be - comments are thoughtful and there are meaningful discussions going on all the time - we learn from each other and everyone treats the others with respect. Believe me or not, I haven't banned a user or deleted an offensive comment for over a year now - there haven't been any. All people around me are on the same page - keeping genuine human contact, no artificial pace or interaction, we're all tired of the bull**** the platforms serve us and 'algorithm' is a dirty word, one must be a fool to chase or obey it - that's like doing everything a 3yo commands you 😁 Thank you for the great video, that's the longest comment I have written in a while 👊🏼❤️‍🔥

[@houghwhite411]

I think for me, as a creator I focus on myself. I do what I want to do and what I love in the side, aside from money thing

[@michaeldbliss]

that sounds like a very healthy mentality to have

[@MattTalksPhotography]

One of the biggest problems we will see more and more of is AI generated content taking over public discussion places such as social media. Fake content, fake comments, fake conversations, bots talking to bots and humans having to be more and more unexpected to not be seen as any of those, but mostly abandoning any attempt to meaningfully connect as bots are created to con people into that supposed connection. It's going to get a whole lot worse before it starts getting any better.

[@michaeldbliss]

unfortunately i fear you might be right, time will tell 😅

[@RobinVPhotography]

I feel this way. I am a photographer, and I don't post my work much on IG anymore because I feel like no one is seeing it.

[@CeritaFandaVancouver]

Hello Michael, your thoughts really resonate with me. I feel less pressure now that I don't really follow the trend and algorithm anymore. It is overwhelming and exhausting to keep up all the time in KZbin ocean. Rather than driven by FOMO & worried about matrix analysis, short retention, etc., I chose to just enjoy my pace and live life.

[@goldmayberry4097]

Great words👍👍👍👏

[@rickymortensen]

I gave up on pleasing the algorithm, I post when I'm in the mood and when I actually have something to say. I used to try and post daily reels, pictures or whatever but it was not fun, made my hobby into a chore and ruined all the fun which is why I started in the first place.

[@michaeldbliss]

i feel this. it currently feels like a chore for me 😅

[@journeyofkalle]

I can relate. If you want to stop loving something, then turn it into a business. 😅 The worst thing I ever did in this area was to make a business around my videography and photography. I lost all passion in the end, it became a chore instead of enjoyment.

[@MakeMoneyWithJason]

I totally agree with you on this. Regarding your first point, I find myself just liking Instagram posts to show loyalty to the person I follow, without even bothering to really read/watch what they've created.

[@michaeldbliss]

yeah I feel like this is pretty common. it's not necessarily bad just a strange phenomenon

[@_norahwashere]

It’s really refreshing to see your video and feel like I’m not alone feeling this way about social media. I feel like it’s taken my creativity away because I used to look for inspiration but then this turned out into endless scrolling and never taking actions. I also feel like my attention to things only last 15secondes before I loose interest because like you said you are being bombarded with loud visuals. I’ve been watching more and more KZbin content as of lately and it’s been good to take something away at the end of a video

[@thelifewithnate]

Especially if folks are just copying trend after trend after trend to just try to go viral with the content that they make.

[@KwinPosts]

Been thinking this for YEARS now... thank you for making this vid. Could not agree more, and inspiring me to act on these notions-

[@alphasiera1757]

This is why I toned down my social media use due to algorithms being shoved into my face contents that are stimulating not informative or useful anymore. Id rather search internet for things that I need rather that let those algorithms decide for me

[@IDGAFMedia]

I completely agree with you 100%. I find myself having to find trending audio, looping a video to 3 seconds, filling up the captions with SEO like what?! This is the stupidest thing!!!!! I don’t get it and I do t want to…lots of thinking here….

[@david_keo]

Felt the same about social media apps and marketing especially. You just helped me see my problem even more clearly. Thanks for making this video, found it incredibly valuable!

[@Phoebetheboss]

I feel this 100%. Love what you said about intentionality vs being served endless feeds of louder screams and faster cuts. I used to watch those videos about algorithms and how to succeed in social media / KZbin, but I realized it's more import to be true to yourself and share something genuine and uplifting with the world rather than letting fame or success become your focus. I love your take and hope your channel really takes off, we need more intentional people on these platforms making intention and beautiful works of art!

[@michaeldbliss]

yes! hopefully we can all focus on bringing quality into the world and sharing our own opinions. thank you for sharing your insight here!

[@thenewautist]

I agree. Even though I am new in Content Creation, I have come to a similar conclusion. I have decided to focus on KZbin. Thanks for doing this.

[@fluffymarshmellows0218]

I’ve been thinking the exact same thing! Thank you for putting it into words I thought I was the only one who noticed. It definitely feels like a lot of substance is being lost

[@michaeldbliss]

you’re definitely not the only one!

[@sasha_nivar]

thank you for sharing your thoughts i definaetly agree about youtube being a more intentional viewing experience

[@michaeldbliss]

it feels like the best of all socials for connecting with other humans and telling stories about the human experience

[@isaiahfloyd5063]

I just got my camera.I am so excited to navigate this very vast world of photography and have been jotting down tons of ideas I have.and i think that’s what my “advice”would be.Even tho I’m a beginner and don’t know exactly what I’m doing.Im always thinking of cool ideas when I hear music,or see something happening in the real world,it gets my gears turning.And a bonus is you will become more in the moment while also finding things to feed your hobby.Hope this might help someone:)

[@RobertGossCreator]

I have backed away for all social media for almost a year now. I see the same thing being posted on IG over and over. I think most people want others to engage but most don't. If you're spending all your time watching your social media then you're not being creative. KZbin takes a lot of time and trying to stay motivated is hard. I have removed all my social media apps from my desktop and some accounts I have deleted like Twitter, this way as I am trying to create content I will not be distracted. Thanks for this videos

[@michaeldbliss]

sounds like a good plan! I agree KZbin takes a lot of time but it seems far more rewarding

[@savoryexposure]

Woo, so much chasing - not enough connecting. Thanks for this

[@photobobo]

I do not use any social media, period. Almost all KZbin videos re completely useless. Usually that's because the presenter loves the sound of their own voice and can shut up long enough to get to the subject of the video. I love photography and share my work with friends, only. Most of what I see is narcissists who travel the really beautiful places to take pictures of themselves. 'Hey, dude, your ugly mug is blocking my view of the landscape.'

[@michaeldbliss]

i hear you. i do think it’s totally fine to post your travels and share it with the world, i def enjoy that. as long as everyone is respectful of the space then im totally cool with each person just deciding what they want to do essentially!

[@zachlucas]

Man, I could not agree with a topic more than this one! This is exactly how I've been feeling. I love it! Great job.

[@LaVida0912]

You don’t know how relieving this video is for me. I’ve played your video twice just to be intentional about listening to everything you’ve said. Tysm for confirming that I shouldn’t adjust to the “new terms” of posting, per se. But from now on, I’m posting my content without feeling forced to adapt to the new ways. My viewers will align when the time is right. Numbers are important but I will not let it consume me

[@michaeldbliss]

yes this! the most important thing is to be proud of your own work and try to always keep improving, not much else you can do. I've had this KZbin channel for around 10 years now I think and only just feel like I have a good plan now on how to make it work. Patience goes a long way. You can't fail if you don't give up!

[@emilie.hofferber]

i think you just made sense of all the thoughts that have been spiraling in my brain forever

[@michaeldbliss]

I think I needed to make this for myself to get all of it out of my head too haha thanks Emilie

[@AwakeTours]

Amen !!!!!! It's so wild. It's a constant keeping up with stuff to stay relevant. But not wanting to do it as it's so unnatural as well as not allowing time to create quality. And then also when a lot of money is spend on such great quality it's overlooked by viewers due to it not looking like the current trend & leaves us super uninspired that something we spent so much time and money on gets 90% less views then a basic bit of media which took 2 seconds. Crazy times 😢❤ a blessing and a curse & we're trying to get back to story telling 🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@Graphicxtras1]

Definitely, the whole social media (YT in particular - it is the main place that I check out) has been uninspiring of late, mainly because of the algorithms. YT needs to re-look at how they display their 'content'. I didn't realise I needed to trim my hair to get more results. Yes, any video that is not super interesting within the first 1/2 second, people are off and never to come back - how depressing that especially for creating tutorials etc

[@jerodkillick]

Thanks for this. It’s what I needed today. As a Photographer, social media leaves me feeling like I’m chasing something I will never catch. In the end I just feel empty. I think KZbin stands apart as does maybe Behance? Thanks again. And many cheers.

[@BaileyGoldstein]

You put into words what I couldn’t formulate properly. I’ve been over social media since pre-covid and I know it hurts my freelance business, but the PYRAMID SCHEME feeling of it all is what put me off. I 100% agree, I don’t watch other people’s stuff, I am only engaging with their content to boost my own shit. I can only assume this is how we ALL feel. So it’s literally all of us just circle jerking each other as we chase the dragon. Huge props dude you got me really thinking. For what it’s worth I’m stoked I found your channel and you seem like a mad talented homie!

[@CaspersVisuals]

Despite the fact you haven’t posted in awhile on social, I found you here, followed you on socials, shared this video. It really spoke to me & I agree with everything you said. Thanks for making this video, I needed to see this.

[@michaeldbliss]

wow thanks so much for those kind words, I'm glad this resonated with you!

[@CaspersVisuals]

@@michaeldbliss you’re welcome. It sure did. I shared it here & on Threads

[@Panacamanana]

This is exactly how I've been feeling for that last 6 months. I got into a space where I chased the algorithm instead of doing it for myself. But the moment you said there isn't real discussion or conversations hit me like a brick. I did the same things, post, find other posts, made simple comments and wondered why I wasn't getting better engagment. I'm definitely going to take a step back and evaluate what it is I want to truly create.

[@michaeldbliss]

yeah at some point it’s like, what even is this!? like what are we all doing here. i’m glad this resonated with you. i appreciate you taking the time to watch and comment, good luck w your creative journey 🙏🏻

[@francesetup]

Love this video! so much truth and reality set in it. The adjustment I had to make in my creative process in making content was the reason it pushed me into a burnout and uninspired or unmotivated to do what I love most. The 7-second rule on reels to have more 'engagement' was one of it and it took everything in me as a creator. Cutting out clips just to please the algorithm made me lose sight of why I started making content in the first place like... what will people gain on 7 secs vids anyway? I started in KZbin and diversified to instagram for photos and reels but it's a whole different world out there it's weird to make informative content with so much limitations. I still get inspired from creators here on youtube who make so much relatable content and some would even want me to challenge myself and grow. Alongside books and being present in day to day life. I rarely use Insta or TikTok anymore and it's such a big difference especially if you value your time.

[@austenohanlon]

Thankyou! So good to hear what so many others are thinking!

[@saarin0tsorry]

I discovered you from this video being put on my KZbin home page. So the algorithm worked for you here. That said, I see your Instagram page and wow! And then realize whether you have 40k followers or 1400, Instagram followers translate to very little personal growth. It certainly seems that KZbin has become a great communication platform and one I plan to dive into at some point. As a much older photographer, I am far less motivated by likes and becoming an influencer or content creator. Those terms grind my gears! Keep up the good work!

[@dfmgib]

Beautiful insights and wisdom that serve as a reminder for us to live a life of presence and of embracing deep meaningful real life connections… Also, if you are not paying for a product, you are the product…

[@michaeldbliss]

that line about the product you make is so true, a good reminder.

[@giaddamia]

I really really love this. I've been feeling the exact same. I'd like more calm quite real moments when I go to my phone.

[@michaeldbliss]

thanks! yeah more real seems a must

[@labandlegacy]

The more time you spend away from the time thief apps, the more you realize how ridiculous it all is. Attention takes time, and time is our most valuable asset. Competing to steal people’s time is so cringe to me these days. Creating actual helpful and life changing content is the only sustainable path, and that requires commitment and dedication. I’ve walked away from IG and lately FB and I’ve had more peace and inspiration than I have in years. Just do it and don’t look back because you’re not missing anything but vapid interactions

[@NOHOLOCO]

Like in the Wizard of Oz: When you can see past all fakeness and trickery- You don’t NEED TO BE in Oz. You can go home. You can be in a REAL and HONEST place. That’s the “meta-phor”. People mindlessly go there. You don’t have to be there.

[@michaeldbliss]

that's so true! I'm trying to use it as a tool, but don't connect my life to it too much

[@theclintonlynch]

This is a good analogy

[@Gentlyjack1]

I feel like algorithms really cannot keep up with how fast my interests changes/cycles, so I usually end up getting recommended things I don't feel like I can connect to, and have to go out of my way to find them. I really enjoy watching meaningful videos, learning things, etc. Those can help inspire me. I do not care about trends, they usually do not feel inspiring.

[@michaeldbliss]

this is probably how a lot of people feel! thanks for watching and sharing your views on this

[@icyjaam]

A great video. I had these thoughts since 2 years, that what if YT didn't exist, the answer to that was what you said, focus on filmmaking which can never be taken away.

[@michaeldbliss]

exactly, you have to build skills that can work for people in the real world, and it's a bonus if that translates to the online world

[@AndrewPearsonFashion]

This spoke to many things I've been feeling for a while about Instagram (especially the engagement pyramid scheme). I've been a big fan and amateur creator of slower content on KZbin, rather than using high energy edits. I'm tempted to try bringing this to Instagram to see what happens. Also great video, subbed :)

[@burgheleaion4004]

Finally a real talk about this. Love the video.

[@michaeldbliss]

had to be said! haha

[@BrettCarstens]

I appreciate your observations and agree with your attitude about it. Hopefully we can come out of this "time" and be better creators, consumers, and all be healthier and happier for it. But yeah, things have to change. Great video. Thanks.

[@michaeldbliss]

I think we will, it seems like a natural progression that was bound to happen at some point. Will be interesting to see how it changes in the future as more people might start feeling similarly.

[@DaWizeDeciple]

This is so true broski!!! As a social media late bloomer I am struggling...

[@IanYoung]

I do agree with you mostly on this topic. Instagram used to be a lot more inspiring; as of late though it's more about what audio is trending and how you can hop on the bandwagon. There needs to be purpose behind the creative pursuit, otherwise the content comes out empty or templated. Maybe it grabs your attention for a second but what's the point if there is no impact. It's just there to monetize your attention in one way or another.

[@michaeldbliss]

it does feel like a huge business these days where creators are just underpaid employees kinda lol

[@Brendan2Alexander]

I check instagram maybe once a month. Am on KZbin every day. Yes I piss away some time here with passive consumption. But a good chunk of my time here is actively engaged with learning things and connecting to people and creators. And I like that. Good points u make.

I'm a content creator and I feel the same way. Social networks trap you and even though there are really good creators on them, if you put everything on a scale in the end it is better to use it just enough. In my case from the Mac and not on the iPhone. Thank you Michael for your words.

[@michaeldbliss]

that’s a good way of looking at it. use it, but in moderation and be very conscious of it

[@kiltul]

I am just now looking at getting back into creating things, and have found the current environment disenfranchising because of almost all of the things you listed. I do think that the way "creating" is talked about and how to "beat the algorithm" is pretty difficult to look past, but I do want to say that I agree that KZbin is definitely one of the better platforms for engaging with the stuff that means something to you. Especially since it's easy to look back through a channel and find other similar works they create that feel meaningful. The algorithm is still real here, but it doesn't seem to influence every single person putting stuff up on KZbin. I can still find new casual creators who just want to share their own passion for something they've done, and I love that about it. This comment is just a long way of saying "I agree".

[@flamingpugga1796]

i definitely agree :')) i was literally thinking about this earlier..

[@michaeldbliss]

I'm glad you can relate, thank you for taking the time to watch and share your thoughts!

[@TheMontefiori]

Oh man you spoke right from my soul. I have been feeling the same way lately and that is exactly he reason why I also decided to start a youtube channel and learn how to make proper videos and edit them instead of focusing my attention on 30 second long videos based on trends. Great video!🙌

[@michaeldbliss]

that’s amazing best of luck with it!

[@RealLifeArchitecture]

It’s amazing that up here in Scotland it’s all timber frame. In 15 years designing house extensions around Edinburgh I’ve never used two skin masonry external wall construction. Sane issue though, we have so much insulation there is no heat left to save. Am doing a training course this week on the Scottish regs new requirements for Passivhaus on all new build homes… Great content, as always

[@Inspirewithdrones3342]

I couldn’t help but to subscribe to your channel. This one video has spoken directly to how I’ve been feeling, which is why I haven’t posted any reels to IG in over a month because I just don’t care about the rat race to the top! I value my peace of mind to much to chase algorithms and peoples attention. KZbin is exactly where my focus has been. Great video sir!👏🏾

[@michaeldbliss]

thanks so much I’m glad you can relate. I’m about to have to start posting again but i haven’t posted on ig for 3 months because i just find it so boring to be honest lol

[@Inspirewithdrones3342]

@@michaeldbliss I totally get it!👍🏾

[@TheJoyOfCreativeLiving]

I agree 100% ❤ thank you for the video 😊

[@robertkoch2873]

Michael, you are so right! Exactly because of the reasons you mentioned I abandoned Instagram & Co. completely. They are time and creativity eating monsters, endangering the mental well being of their users.

[@michaeldbliss]

yeah I think we all just need to be careful about how much of it we are consuming really, I appreciate you watching and sharing your thoughts!

[@ArtemAlexandra]

This is such a wonderful video // call out! Hahah My plan to stay inspired: branch out into more creative fields!!

[@Black_Family_In_China]

I love your content ❤ you are so real and authentic!

[@austinsuge]

Awesome video Michael. I agree so much with the sentiment of not feeling that connection to the content on Instagram anymore. I am also putting focus into my KZbin this year as well and really liked that you hi lighted that the skills you learn when practicing filmmaking will always be relevant and going with the trends will not be. Excited to see more long form videos from you.

[@michaeldbliss]

thanks! and yes skills > trends any day. thank you for taking the time to watch and comment!

[@SheenaShea]

I’m a social media manager and have been creating short form content for years now. I feel the exact same way. KZbin is my go to now.

[@peterwilliams2889]

You’re well ahead of the curve. In a few weeks, months, et al time frame, you’ll notice others mentioning many of the same things. Hopefully the first major change to Instagram will be the elimination over time of the Reels at the top that have too many short clips with no easy way to digest the images. Quality always wins over Quantity.

[@shaharajahmed]

thank you for this! it has always struck me as odd when i see people hang out just for both of them to be watching reels together..

[@MedaHalmaciu]

Watching (actually listening) this while painting some great crested grebe I encountered on a lake while accompanying my husband fishing. So real life is the greatest inspiration for me at the moment, posting almost nothing on social media.

[@michaeldbliss]

love that!

[@art.by.ayan.]

Awesome video and well said 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 I couldn’t agree more , the content you consume mindlessly has an effect on your subconscious mind and your creativity. This year I’ve cut down on just scrolling on apps and have started watching more video like yours. I’m an artist and I’ve been making an effort to draw consistency instead of wasting time scrolling 😁

[@michaeldbliss]

that's such a great plan, let's try to reward content that brings value this year!

[@bridgetw2127]

I had this same thought a few days ago. I realized the cookie-cutter trends on Instagram were no longer sustainable or inspirational. I am actively seeking out Instagram accounts that avoid using trending sounds and accounts that post creative, cinematic reels. I think anyone can copy the trends from day to day, but the ones worth following are actively going against what is expected. Thank you for speaking on this topic. Good to know that there is still a place for creativity and new ideas on the Internet.

[@paulz8750]

I think you are spot-on in your assesment. Personally, I see most youtuber's as playing the "I want to do this for a living & make millions" game - nothing wrong with that but then don't be surprised when you burn-out or reach the point of "what do I have to do to increase my subscribers". As much as I like certain channels, for example take camera gear reviews. After I've seen three of a new product, why would I want to waste more of my precious time watching much the same. And as for the adverts! I've also over-dosed on people saying "And let's get straight into it". If I orderd you to watch a particular channels' video twice a week for a month - or go to your favourite restaurant every night for a week, wouldn't you get fed up, because I would. Finally I'm weening myself off of youtube because in my mind, I'm confronted with a screen of "click my video" and I've also refrained from subscribing because notifications interrupt my concentration. Good luck to you for the future though & hope it works out for you.

[@perryworchie5866]

Lovely presentation. Very timely for me. All points were spot on. Gained a subscriber☺

[@KhurshidsChannel]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@patrickmuglich9976]

Wow cool 🔥 🔥 .. Yes, I feel the same way. I'm just thinking about how I can incorporate this into my client work. The future will tell, thank you for your inspiration

[@TheCreateOutdoors]

When I decided to limit my screentime on Instagram a month ago, I became more aware of how I was using these apps. I was sort of just going through the motions of liking posts and not really looking at them. Just catching up on my feed meant liking all the posts and watching all of the new stories in my feed. I've pushed my focus primarily here on KZbin, where like you said, you have to be more aware. Currently, I am at a crossroads of how I want my videos to look. I like to watch videos that feel like a TV show (Discovery/Science Channel style), but I also like KZbin channels such as yours that are much more cinematic. The show look is easier to make but can only get so far with one person. The cinematic look looks better to me, but I find it much more challenging to make.

[@michaeldbliss]

maybe try to do both ways? or, can you combine them? take bits of what you like of both styles and forge it into a new style that is uniquely yours? that’s what i’m hoping to do with my content on here at least

[@klarkolofsson]

I feel for people who rely on "social media content" for their survival.

[@michaeldbliss]

yeah, it’s useful for me for work but i’m not reliant thankfully! this is a good point to set yourself up where if the apps don’t exist you still have work to do

[@johnadams3038]

Why feel for them? They can instead live a normal life instead of living in a social media life lol

[@alicexmelo]

@@johnadams3038hmmm no. Many people use social media to advertise their actual job; therapists, psychologists, estheticians, plastic surgeons, researchers, photographers, marketing professionals, and many more.