Blogging 101: A Guide

On 6th July 2012:
The Camera's Lying, turned 1! That is 365 days of blogging love. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I think 

that is a big achievement? Well, to celebrate, I decided to share with you the things I've learned over the 

past year and a bit. I don't claim to be a pro at this, and I know a lot of other bloggers have achieved more

in a year than I have, but this is just my view on things.

Blog for no one but yourself

When I started blogging, I wrote to a grand total of '0' followers for the two months. I didn't care, I was having

fun! Writing was a creative outlet for ME. No one else. When people jumped on board for the ride, it was a 

massive bonus. I still blog only for me and my enjoyment, the fact that you guys have joined in the fun just makes

it a whole lot more exciting!

Never expect things of your blog, your readers or yourself

There is no point in expecting to be able to churn out a post a day when you already have other commitments.

Don't ever feel like you need to be writing a certain type of post, or a certain amount of posts and you can 

never be disappointed if you don't reach your 'quota.' Similarly, expecting readers to constantly comment and 

interact with you is going to set you up for disappointment. Blogging is a hobby for the majorities and often

has to take a back seat to reality.

Write exactly what you want, when you want

I used to write posts about everything from my day to music. I could define my blog but that didn't matter. A blog

that has personality and love put into it is always going to be more exciting to a reader than a 'niche' blog. Its

YOUR internet space, your decisions about what to write.

Give yourself an online presence

Get chatty on twitter, tumblr, facebook and blog comments. Interact with your followers and people you follow

alike. I'm more likely to check out someones blog who regularly comments or pops up in my twitter feed than

someone who once left a comment on my blog saying 'check me out?' Not only does getting animated on the 

internet invite people to your blog, it also helps you make friends- the BEST part of blogging in my opinion.

Do as you would be done by

We all welcome constructive criticisms, but would you like it if you received your tweet or comment? If the 

answer is no, then I seriously suggest not posting it. Always be nice to other people and chances are they will

be nice back.

Layout is important

A non cluttered layout is inviting to potential followers. Also try to make sure your layout reflects your personality

and blog. First impressions matter, so if you are a exclusively music blog, don't have a background covered in 

lipsticks- misleading.

Be true to yourself and let your personality shine through

Blogging is different to journalism as we can really put our personality into our writing and online space. We don't

represent anyone but ourselves and that should be liberating. I never let my reviews become clinical or restricted

by other peoples views. People appreciate honesty and individuality.

What are your blogging tips?

Amy x