Creativity Tips: Isaac's Proposal

There are times when amazing creativity demands a team. Check out Isaac's proposal. It starts strong and just gets better. Mazel tov to the happy couple!

And here's hoping your week is something to sing about!

Video Creativity Tips: Paul Mesner Puppets

My daughter Kate is a reporter and videographer for Manhattan Matters this semester. I'm sharing her feature on puppeteer Paul Mesner with you because there are so many creativity tips inherent in the story. (I suggest clicking on the "her feature" link above to watch the video. I couldn't figure out how to get it centered here so you could see the full frame. Hmmm. I need to work on that.)

Lessons from the puppets ... no strings attached:

1. Someone else suggested doing a story on Mesner when he performs in Manhattan later this month. Kate took that idea, gave it a twist, and came up with this fun feature. Asking yourself, "What else could we do with this?" is a wonderful creativity spark.


2. Kate realized after she did the interview that she didn't have one backstage shot that would be really important. She went back and got it. Review your work. Edit your work. Make it as good as possible before you turn it in -- to an editor, a client or a professor.


3. Kate's original piece became better when she worked with her teacher, Andy Nelson. Take advantage of the expertise all around you.


4. As Paul Mesner says in the clip: If you're the expert, step up. Give direction. But never forget there's much to be learned from those around you.


5. Never get too old to enjoy a puppet show. Or a puppet video!

Video Creativity Tips: I Can Be Taught

Did you know that people use video online? Yep. It's true. I guess there's this whole YouTube thingie and people put videos on blogs and everything. Wow.

So, here we go on the next Creative Instigation adventure! I now have a channel on YouTube and will periodically share video posts. My first attempt comes to you from Steel Creek in Arkansas. I'm going to embed it here and link to it -- hopefully, one way or the other, you'll see it and enjoy. Get out the popcorn, kids!