Could you introduce yourself in a few lines so that our community can get to know you better?
My blog "Hello it's Valentine has been in existence since June 2009.
Initially a graphic and web designer, I started this blog out of a love of photography and a desire to share my snapshots, travels and daily favorites.
In November 2012, I received the Golden Blog Award in the "Fashion" category (the Golden Blog Awards ceremony recognizes the best blogs in each category, based on votes cast by Internet users and a panel of judges).
Since the end of 2012 my job as a graphic designer has taken a back seat, leaving me more time to develop content for my blog.
Over the last three years, I've become a vegetarian and I've become aware of a lot of things. As a result, I now tend to work more and more with ethical, green brands that promote an ecological concept, advocate sustainability and respect for people and animals.
Blogging professionally means saying no to a lot of things.
How would you define your style/universe?
That's a tough question, because I've never been able or willing to define my "style"... It's up to you!
When was your blog created?
June 2009, when I was still the creator of my fabric doudous brand "Les doudous de Valentine". A century ago!
What triggered you to get involved in blogging and social networking?
Initially a graphic and web designer, I started this blog out of a love of photography and a desire to share my photos, travels and daily favorites.
How much time do you spend on your articles or youtube videos? Directing, editing...? Do you have any organizational tips for other bloggers and youtubers?
A lot of time. I don't count the hours and I don't have a fixed schedule. I think we're all different, and what works for me may not work for others, so I don't really have any advice other than to be diligent and motivated.
Which community are you targeting?
My community is between 25 and 35 years old.
Where do you find most of your inspiration? And which social networks do you use most?
Pinterest is indispensable on those days when I have no inspiration, or just free time. It's a very time-consuming site, but I always come away with lots of new ideas!
How do you manage your time, between family, work, social networking and blogging?
I don't know how successful I am, but I try to disconnect at a more or less fixed time in the evening to enjoy my lover.
Otherwise, I really do work all the time... Which doesn't exactly set me up as an example!
Did one collaboration/partnership stand out for you more than others? And if so, which one?
My current collaboration with Kookaï, which has been going on for 7 months now. Initially, it was only supposed to last 3 months, but the brand was so enthusiastic about my work creating photos, that they've already renewed our contract twice. I'm very flattered by this and it's a great reward for my work. They like my style and what I propose.
Otherwise, I've loved absolutely every project I've had the chance to work on, in every field: travel, ready-to-wear, sports, beauty, food... No day is the same, I'm so lucky!
What would you like to undertake or develop next?
2017 is my travel year!
I'm increasingly approaching my contacts to set up trips all over the place.
I can't wait to leave again soon...
Do you produce your own visuals and photos? And if so, what equipment do you use?
Yes, I never use photos that don't belong to me, that's the basis of my editorial line.
I have a Nikon D5500 with the Nikkor Sigma ART 50 mm afs 1.4 lens and the 18-200mm lens ("the traveler's lens"). My remote control is also a Nikon, compatible with my SLR.
What advice would you give to other influencers in the community?
Refuse more things, don't accept everything and anything in exchange for gifts or even money.
Try to have an ethic and stick to it, even if it means refusing a lot of things.
And what would you say is your main secret to success?
I'd say my spontaneity and sincerity. Having said that, these two traits don't ONLY bring me good things in return!
What does being a blogger mean to you on a daily basis?
So many things. I'm learning, I'm meeting great people, I'm traveling, I'm making discoveries, I'm going places I'd never have gone without my blog, I'm laughing a lot, I'm getting angry too sometimes, but that's part of the deal.
My blog is the best adventure that ever happened to me, while it lasts, I give it 3000%!!!!
Thanks to Valentine, an enthusiastic blogger who packs a punch! Who wouldn't want to take the plunge?
Find her on her blog and social networks, and don't miss any more of her daily news...
- Blog : http://www.helloitsvalentine.fr/
- Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/Hello-its-Valentine
- Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/hellovalentine/
- Pinterest: https://fr.pinterest.com/valentinehello/
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