Every industry has its myths—stories insiders repeat until they sound like truth. But behind the slogans and the spin are unspoken (and sometimes unnoticed) realities – we asked some of the wisest folks we know to share what lies they’ve noticed in their industries.
Ssam Sungun Kim
One of the biggest lies my industry tells itself is that AI will replace photographers and filmmakers. Tools may change, but vision cannot be automated. What will actually happen is a shift- only those with a strong point of view, real creative depth, and a distinct voice will stand out. Read more>>
Jack Perry
One of the biggest lies the music industry tells itself is that the way many labels operate, especially with emerging artists, is fair or necessary. Too often, contracts and agreements are structured in ways that prioritize speed, profit, or trends over the artist’s vision. Read more>>
Claire Pinckney
That more is better. More product, more speed, more noise, more content. The industry often confuses visibility with value and scale with success, while overlooking craftsmanship, intention, and emotional connection. Another lie is that individuality is risky. In reality, it’s the only sustainable differentiator. Read more>>
Tyler Middendorf
There are too many photographers is one I hear all the time. There are not too many at all, in fact most events I go too it’s the same people. We need photographers both for their creative view of the world, but also it challenges us to be getter and see things differently. Read more>>
Cynthia Soto Peregrino
Wow, that’s a tough question. My industry is actually one of the biggest contributors to unnecessary toxins and waste. One of the biggest misconceptions we push is “sustainability.” From a printer’s perspective, we’re a bit of an unnecessary niche business. Read more>>
Vasken Ohanian
As someone who mainly writes and performs in what most people call the ‘Classical Music Industry’ (I prefer the term ‘Western Art Music,’ but we don’t need to get into that right now), I often hear people say ‘Classical music is dying’ or ‘People aren’t interested in Classical Music anymore,’ and I don’t think that could be farther from the truth. Read more>>
Adam Cozens
The biggest lie my industry tells is that the only path to success is to sacrifice everything that stands in the way of your career. The most successful people I know hold a balance between their work and passions and their personal life. They hold fruitful and enjoyable relationships that have nothing to do with work while also being leaders in their chosen profession. Read more>>
