We recently connected with Amy Bell and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Amy, thanks for joining us today. So, let’s start with trends – what are some of the largest or more impactful trends you are seeing in the industry?
The Metaverse seems to be the buzzword surrounding my industry a lot these days, but how does one explain it when it doesn’t even exist yet? That’s where my industry of AR (Augmented Reality) steps in. Some of the biggest brands want in on this buzz word, but don’t necessarily know how to jump on it. And that’s where people like me can help. There are a lot of opportunities in AR that will trend in 2024, everything from AR powered retail, such as virtual try-ons and AR powered mirrors to education, where one can use AR to perform a trial run of a surgery or taking apart a car. However on a more personal level effects or “filters” have been known to cause self esteem issues especially in younger users so that is something to watch out for.
Amy, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My name is Amy Bell, I am a born and raised South African creative. I am an Augmented Reality designer, which in basic terms means I make filters (but we like to professionally call them effects) I started in AR a few months before the pandemic forced us all home and for me, AR was a way to escape all the doom and gloom that was going on outside. I got to make people feel beautiful and confident and sure of themselves in a world where it was not entirely known what would happen next. In 2022 I decided I would no longer be using what we call “deformation” in my effects which is essentially changing the way someone’s face looks to look like they’ve had cosmetic surgery after reading about the negative impact it was having on younger audiences. I make effects for Instagram, Snapchat and TikTok. AR is a great way for brands to interact with their audiences, from virtual try-ons of products to just plain old having fun. There’s an AR experience for every brand. I’ve had the pleasure of working with Avon Cosmetics, Sony Music Entertainment and Reebok to name a few.
Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?
I built my audience on social media through designing personal effects that attracted people who wanted to see my art and view what I would make next. I find that people love seeing behind the scenes of the work that goes into building an effect and that sort of content does really well on my profiles across Snapchat, TikTok and Instagram. My advice to someone starting to build their presence is to be authentic and be consistent.
Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?
The greatest strategy I’ve had for growing my clientele is definitely through being super helpful and transparent when it comes to working with clients. There’s no smoke and mirrors in my work and because most of the time it’s very new to these brand managers, I make sure to hold their hand through every step. From conception, to building to publishing the effect on their profiles. I also make sure to treat every single client as if they’re the best client I’ve ever had. I find that a can-do attitude gets clients to come back for more and tell their peers and friends about the service I offer.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.amyisawessome.com
- Instagram: amyisawessome
Image Credits
Amy Bell
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