In a recent Smack Happy Videocast, we caught up with visual storytelling expert, Jennifer Baxter. Jen walked us through how storytelling is a really basic human need (so TRUE). We all communicate through story. We’re always telling a story. Stories pull people out of their day-to-day lives.
A quote from plato. Who wouldn’t listen to this guy?
At the basic level, the way that we communicate our values, who we are, and the interesting things that happen to us—the way we feel about things, and what is important to us is always through story. Knowing that you’re going to do that intentionally and choosing the stories that you want to share with people highlight those things that you want them to really appreciate and focus on. And when we add the visual component, we’re basically doing it in pictures. People love doing this in different ways.
How does this relate to content marketing? Well, we’re always talking about how content is the hardest thing to do but it doesn’t have to be. You need to start somewhere, so why not start with what you’re familiar with? Share what comes naturally. Something you’re passionate about that will help support your business.
How to Start Your Story
Try Jen’s methods to starting a new visual story:
- Start with a moment or a feeling, and something that happens. Then, follow that with photos and finally write words that relate to the photos.
- Or start with something you really want to express. What are the values or things that you’re doing right now that you really want to share with people? Then, look for the things that have happened in your life or are happening currently. Now, tell that story and find a visual that goes with that.
OMG, you did it! <3<3<3
