Daily Inspiration: Meet Lanie Kapsalis

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lanie Kapsalis.

Hi Lanie, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I’ve been immersed in the social media realm ever since I was 11 years old, looking up to Justin Bieber as a role model. I began posting singing videos just like him to “become famous” and dug down the deep hole of becoming a fangirl. Everything I did as a teenager (managing a fan account for my favorite artists, writing fan fiction online, crafting fan edits) molded me into the self-motivated content creator and concert photographer I am today. I’ve always been deeply passionate about the music industry, concerts, and social media. Staying up to date on the latest trends and pop culture moments energizes me.

Going to concerts makes me feel like I’m going to my second home. I’ve met some of my best friends on the internet and at concerts. The significance of music in my life is indescribable. It brings people together, provides comfort, and has the power to change the world. I’ve been a fan of Harry Styles for over 11 years, and even as a young girl, I recognized him as a unique musician and individual. Having a male figure who steps out of social conventions and does something different or daring is a breath of fresh air. I showcased my love for Harry and concerts through TikTok in late 2019. TikTok provides me with the perfect platform to combine all my passions. What began as a casual hobby has now turned into a fun side hustle while working full-time as a UGC creator and building a creative agency with my best friend (who I literally met at a concert in 2014). On TikTok, I am able to express myself freely through my content and video editing skills, as well as collaborate with various brands and connect with a small but dedicated audience of 36K+ followers.

In late 2021, I decided to chase a dream that I once thought was impossible: becoming a concert photographer. I’ve always had a passion for music and photography and I realized that with the help of social media and my understanding of the music industry, I can make it happen. I’ve already photographed over 15 musicians and am excited to continue to make a name for myself in the concert photography industry! My story is a little bit all over the place in terms of the different journeys I am pursuing, but in the end, it all ties back to the music industry and social media.

I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
I was constantly bullied by my peers in middle school for liking Justin Bieber, posting singing covers on YouTube, and pretty much being a fangirl. I’ll never understand why people look down upon fangirls and think they are obsessive, cringe, etc. when in reality, we know our favorite artists better than any professional in the music industry. Pursuing being a content creator is a tough road to follow. Most people think it’s not even a real job, and sometimes no one takes me seriously.

I experience imposter syndrome 24/7, feeling like I’m not deserving of what comes into my life. I’m constantly comparing myself to other experienced concert photographers/content creators who have been in this industry for years when I shouldn’t be doing that since I’m fairly new to the game. I’m growing every day and learning how to be confident and stand out from the crowd. This year, I’m going to create content that I think is fun, inspiring, and entertaining. I’m going to photograph every concert thinking about a fan’s vision and what they want to see. Being a fangirl was the best thing to ever happen to me as a child because it opened the door to so many passions and future career choices.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’m known for posting about concert photography, celebrities, and concerts on TikTok to my 38K+ followers. I am passionate about creating engaging content, utilizing social media platforms, executing digital marketing strategies, and capturing breathtaking concert photography, all of which are integral aspects of my career. This year, I am working on starting a creative agency with my best friend and building my personal platform online. I also am a freelance UGC content creator.

The dream would be to follow an artist on tour and create content for them/photograph them. I’m most proud of growing my following from 0 to almost 40K and having an audience who shares similar interests with me. I want to build a community full of music superfans and concert lovers to show that getting a job in the music industry is attainable and fun! Also, I want to showcase the beauty of going to concerts and normalize fangirl behavior.

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
You never know with social media. It could all be over tomorrow and I would definitely have to pursue other careers. In my opinion, I only see social media going up from here. I think movie production companies, award shows, million-dollar businesses, etc. are going to embrace new technologies like TikTok, Youtube, etc, and leverage social media content creators/their platforms.

Young and innovative music fans are going to make a permanent dent in the music industry and artists are going to rely on them more for album releases, campaigns, projects, etc. There is going to be a HUGE shift toward Gen Z.

Being a “fangirl” from a young age has taught me the importance of building and engaging online communities and how to effectively use social media to promote artists and events. I believe that in the current digital age, it is vital for artists to use social media as a tool to not only gain new followers but also to actively engage and maintain a connection with their existing fanbase.

Contact Info:

• Website: laniekapsalis.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laniekap/?hl=en
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lanie-kapsalis702/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@lanie.mp3