* takes a drag of my imaginary Cuban cigar.

Alright, let's get into it - you are not a creative! 

I actually can't count the number of words that have been abused and diluted in recent times. But today, let's focus on the word 'creative'. I am often hesitant to use that word to describe myself for fear of being lumped together with every other person that claims the title loosely. I bet you, if you take a survey on social media, a lot of people would describe themselves as creatives even if the truth is that they really are not. They are merely infatuated with the idea of identifying as one even though they know nothing of what it takes.

Being a creative doesn't require the same painstaking process as being a doctor, or a lawyer, or an engineer - at least that's what a lot of people think. As a matter of fact, let's start with the important questions: who are creatives and what do they actually do? Does being able to take a picture with your phone and slapping on a filter on it, count in the qualifications of one being a creative? Or is piecing together a written work with the aid of ChatGPT a sure fire way to bear the title?The simple answer is a big fat NO! Ask the nearest photographer what it takes to capture an image, and maybe you'd get a faint idea.

Photography is one thing, then there's videography, writing, music, art and the rest. All these are constantly being watered down as technology advances and phone companies cheapen the crafts with apps that automatically do the work. While it may be cool for a group of people, it's nightmarish for the true artisans who have devoted time in mastering their specific skills.

I do photography and cinematography (certified from an institution), and a lot of times I've had clients ask me why I charge the amount I do, when it's just to point and shoot like the other creators on Instagram. Fighting the urge to curse them out, I explain to them that what I do isn't quite as plain as they make it seem. However, I can't blame them. How could I? There are a lot of impostors out there who claim to possess the same skills even when all they have is a fancy phone and apps. Can you imagine if some random guy claimed to be a lawyer because he has an app that reads out the constitution to him?

Labelling yourself a creative isn't just an attempt to be cool. It is hard work! It is the ability to birth an idea through various platforms that connects with people. A creative photographer creates awe inspiring images from his knowledge of exposure, lenses, composition, lighting, and a lot more. It is the expert combination of all of these that translates into the amazing photographs you fall in love with. Instagram filters and iPhone cameras have nothing to do with it.

A creative fictional writer understands structure, plot elements, character development etc, which he uses to evoke emotions from his readers and audience. He isn't a creative because he can gist and tell tales.

So before my imaginary cigar burns out, let me reiterate that you are not a creative if your entire creativity is dependent on phones and free apps from the app store.