Pinterest has never really been the place for influencers and creators to rack in money and fame. I’ve always used Pinterest to find inspiring DIYs or aesthetically pleasing photography. Most users browse the app similarly: by creating mood boards filled with recipes, decor ideas, or color-coded photos.
The creators of Pinterest themselves are no stranger to this reputation, that of Pinterest being a laid-back, casual platform that people don’t often use to “influence.” However, Pinterest, like many other apps that are lusting after the recent success of TikTok’s implemented creator resources, is hoping to lock in the young creator community on their own platform.
Initially, around 3 months ago, Pinterest launched “Idea Pins.” This feature is essentially Instagram Stories tailored to the Pinterest platform. Users have the ability to upload videos in “story” format, complete with sticker graphics, editing tools, and background music. And, recently, Pinterest has expanded on this concept further. Now, Idea Pins are “tag-able.” This means that users can tag products in their Idea Pins in order to make them shop-able for viewers. The uploader also has the opportunity to make a commission through tagged affiliate links.
What’s Next?
Honestly, I’m a little bit conflicted about this news. On one hand, Pinterest is great because of its lack of obsessive money-grabs. Yes, it’s filled with targeted ads. Yes, many of the pins I’ve come across have inspired me to make random impulsive shopping decisions more than a few times. But, at its core, the app has always been about inspiration. You look at pretty pictures, and you create mood boards and collages where you can store those pretty pictures in one place. It’s calming, and uncomplicated.
On the other hand, how could I be upset with the platform’s decision to finally support its creators. On the other hand, Pinterest has finally decided to support its creators with showcasing and monetizing their work. And how could that be a bad thing? Instagram, for example, is an entirely different concept. The photo-sharing app has reached a level of financial obsession that Pinterest clearly has yet to reach. I mean, does Instagram even care about pictures anymore? It’s all about making products clickable and shop-able. However, Pinterest doesn’t seem to be changing its formula too drastically. Rather, it is providing an optional and beneficial opportunity for its users to monetize and influence through its platform.
Fellow creators who make art or other visual content, please test out the new Pinterest update and let me know if it actually works in your favor!
Featured Image from Charles Deluvio on Unsplash
