In #BehindtheScenes posts, I share tips and tricks I’ve learned (or am learning) about writing and publishing.
Y’all. This kind of blew my mind.
First, I’m old. Like, not “I’ve lived a lot of years” old, but more “I’m a geezer in the body of a not-so-ancient human.” Most of the time, I’m good with that. It keeps me from having to deal with nonsense.
Boy Bands?
Shut off that racket!
Hot gurl summer?
Stay off my lawn!
Technology and “The Socials”?
You rugrats and your new fangled thing-a-majiggers… back in my day… Did I say ‘stay off my lawn’ yet?
To which my kids yawn, and quote Bluey with something like “It was the Eighties!”
Yes, it sure was. Back when we had to set up out own props if we wanted to tale prop-filled photos. But, that is not the case anymore! Oh no!
Enter marketing companies that offer virtual mockups, companies like placeit.com or freepic.com. (Note: I’m not on the take from any markup companies, so take all recommendations with a grain of salt, and as always, do your research to find the company that works best for you!)
Most people who are familiar with mockups think of them in terms of clothing or crafts. For years, digital markups have been used to create virtual T-shirts, hats, posters, etc, for websites that sell such things. It’s a big benefit — they avoid having to create costly prints of shirts that may or may not sell.
That’s great, I can hear you muttering, but what’s in it for me? A writer? I don’t need swag yet…
Well, I’m glad you asked! If you’re like me, you’re always looking for ways to highlight yourself on social media. To keep up with your peeps, as I’m sure no one says anymore. Now you have new content whenever you want it!
Want a picture of people reading your book for socials or websites? No more do you have to drag your friends and half a dozen props to the park for a photo shoot. (I mean, far be it for me to tell you not to drag your friends to the park for a photo shoot, but at the same time, they will probably thank you if you don’t!)
Now, with a few clicks of a button, you have a socials approved pic of your book in the hands of your audience, no friend-cajoling necessary.
As Maui would say, you’re welcome!
