Q1: How did you become a creator?
I already visit a lot of places and have always enjoyed taking photos and sticking it on Instagram. I used to get so many comments and messages on my private account asking where I’d been and where I thought they should go, I decided to run it as a public page. Getting out of the house with the kids is my superpower and I wanted share it with the world, inspiring other parents to do the same.
Q2: What inspires your posts?
My love of adventure. I go stir crazy sitting at home all day, and I love exploring new places. I get so excited about discovering a hidden gem, and even more so when I share it with followers. People are always saying they didn’t know something was right on their doorstep.
Q3: What has been your biggest challenge as a creator?
Generating money from my page has been by far the biggest challenge. It’s still a challenge.
Q4: And your biggest achievement?
Inspiring so many families to go out and visit new places. I receive daily messages from people thanking me for running my page, and knowing that I’m encouraging so many parents to explore is a huge achievement.
Q5: What would be your advice to anyone wanting to become a creator?
Make sure it’s truly your passion. Its a hell of a lot more work than it looks. And be as specific as possible to your area.
Q6: Your fave Instagram filter?
Clarendon.
Q7: Your fave Instagrammers?
@luxefamily5 @themultidad @wikiplacesforkids_official @one.busy.mother @theoutdoorsmum @mamaloveschelmsford
Q8: Which camera/lighting techniques do you use?
The get-the-photos-as-quickly-as-possible-before-one-of-my-kids-run-off technique. I have three children under five so just getting out somewhere is challenge enough without pressuring myself to take professional quality photos while I’m doing it. Sometimes I get lucky, sometimes I don’t, but we always enjoy our days out which is the main thing.
Q9: What’s your hashtag strategy?
I try to be as specifics possible, and think about what I would type in a google search engine. I throw in a few fun made-up ones, my own personal one, and then will add the odd big hashtag too just for good measure.
Q10: The best thing about being a creator is…
The Instagram friends you make. It’s strange but it makes the world feel smaller as you can connect with anyone at the touch of a button. Social media does get a lot of bad press but it can be such an inclusive and inspirational platform as well. I love being part of the “creator” community.
Love it, thanks Nicola! And you can follow Nicola’s adventures here: @motherofalloutings