Saturday 2 April 2016

Social media the curve ball it can throw

I thought I knew exactly what I was going to write this week however life threw a curve ball and I had to think fast to come up with a new blog. I have had a busy period on social media these past few weeks.

It all started with Visit Scotland getting in contact via my Instagram account. I have previously been showcased by Visit Scotland but it was still exciting to hear from them again.  I was asked if I would allow one of my photos to be displayed at various events throughout Scotland over the next year, of course I said yes as it is an amazing opportunity. 

Once I had submitted my photo Visit Scotland informed me that my image along with other photographers will be displayed on digital billboards at the major train stations in London as of the 18th March.
This took me by surprise as I thought it would only be events in Scotland that the photo would be shown, so if any of our lovely readers have spotted the displays please get in touch and let me know as it would make my day.

Balmedie Beach Sunrise 28.02.2016


It goes to show how beautiful this little section of beach is as I posted a photo to my Facebook page and could never have predicted what happened next.

Like any normal evening I posted a photo of Balmedie Beach (it just happens to be my favourite beach), my phone began to ping and vibrate at a ridiculous rate. I like to interact with the people who take the time to comment as I feel it gives that personal touch, OH has a different opinion to this and often reminds my that is why FB installed a like button.

Well that night I could not keep up with the lovely comments and was overwhelmed by the response, I usually achieve likes between 45-150. When I retired to bed I had over 1000 likes when I woke up in the morning it was up to 3000 likes. 

I was on a bit of high but soon the low hit as my subsequent posts have not reached that level. Do I mind, not really. Would I like to replicate the magic in that photograph of course, unfortunately the magic is in the hands of the light and timing. 

See what you think....

Balmedie Beach 13.03.2016

I'm glad I caught this curve ball, social media it certainly kept me busy this month.
Feel free to pop over to my Facebook page and Instagram @neily39.

13 comments:

  1. Just wow, Neil! Both to the amazing photos, being picked up by Visit Scotland, and by the fantastic FB response. Very well deserved.

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  2. Thank you Gill it was such a fantastic feeling. I often find myself just staring at the pink one wondering if its the end or the beginning of the path and where it can take you.

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  3. So, so pleased that all your hard work is being recognised, Neil. And what an amazing feeling to know your photos have been chosen to represent the best of what Scotland has to offer - on billboards around London! I'm jumping up and down with excitement on your behalf! *High Five* Neil Donald Photography!

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    1. Thank you very much Rae. It is rather exciting just wish I had an excuse to pop down lol.

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  4. Congratulations Neil. All your hard work and all those early mornings are certainly starting to pay off. Your talent is being recognized and it's just the beginning I'm sure. Wish I was on holidays again so I could spot your photo on a billboard. An amazing achievement.

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    1. Thank you Ann-Marie I don't mind the early mornings when its to get beautiful photos, when its for work that's a different story.

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  5. Neil,
    I've always been a fan of your talent. And it makes Scotland so real to me. Congrats. I guess we need to start tagging friends in our comments of your posts. Maybe that will keep your #s up. You deserve a mass following!
    I'd love to see the display. Maybe a trip to Scotland should be on my bucket list for 2016.

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    1. Susan, I think a trip to Scotland should be on everyone's bucket list that includes those that live here as too often you take for granted the beaches and countryside.
      It is down to my fans (blush) that I have gotten this far so thank you.

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  6. What a coup! One picture is worth a thousand words, and all that. I often use a photograph I see in a magazine or newspaper as inspiration for a story and the two you have posted have certainly done that.

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  7. I adore the pictures of Balmedie beach. And how exciting that you managed to reach so many people...truly well-deserved.

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