How to make your project to be remembered

In 2013 summer, I presented my hobby project (LED guided piano) at North Carolina Maker Faire. In 2019 summer, I found this project has been presented at the front page of the NCSU Engineering Outreach website. It is likely that this photo has been used as their main landing page more than 6 years, creating so much impact. So this project has outlived all other projects presented during the Maker Faire.

Yeah I am 60% bragging, but I hope to make a point that, presenters of any exhibition should try making their presentations photogenic. If your project is featured in media through photo, the positive social impact (= inspiration) of your project increase by 100,000 fold and your presentation achieve immortality. This makes you happy.

What does it mean by 'photogenic'? I don't know exactly but I can share my example. On the Maker Faire day, I randomly brought a lamp to let visitors see the project better. I didn't intend for this but it turns out having plenty of light increase photogenicity very much. For example, the lamp creates a strong light contrast on the face of the girl, resulting in charisma. Also you sense the increased feeling of 'happy atmosphere' because of the light. Also, one NCSU officer approached me the day before the exhibition asking me if I were an NCSU student. On the exhibition day, he brought that red panel with very clearly written title of the work. This red panel creates official feeling inviting attention. When the photographer took the photo from this current angle, the resulting photo combines all of these factors I mentioned above. So decide an angel to be photogenic, and build your attractive factors around it. Importantly, make sure nothing blocks the photographer from recognizing and approaching to that angle.



















You, the makers, were also inspired by somebody. I believe it is your duty to inspire others likewise. Make your presentations photogenic.

By the way, this is another photo from the event. It was taken from my perspective. See things are again brighter on my booth compared to the background because of that lamp. The light creates the warm feeling that grabs attention + make things much more visible.

I think this moment was a highlight of my hobby electronics adventures. I made daughter-father share a fun joyful memory while I had tons of fun building and presenting my hobby work. What more can I ask for ?