11: Marketing for Creatives in the Age of AI: How to Adapt & Stay Authentic with Kenny Tjay

What does it take to stand out as a creative in a rapidly evolving digital world? For filmmaker and creative entrepreneur Kenny Tjay, success has come from constant experimentation, embracing technology, and treating creativity like a business. From his early days in wedding photography to building a digital media brand, Kenny has navigated industry shifts with adaptability and strategic thinking.

In this episode, we dive into the intersection of creativity, AI, and the mindset shift needed to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Finding the Right Creative Path

How do you know when it’s time to make a change in your creative career? For Kenny, shifting from photography to video production in 2013 was a game-changer. By leveraging Yelp for advertising, he built a thriving business and discovered the power of strategic marketing.

Actionable Insight: If you’re feeling stuck, experiment with a new creative format or platform and see how it feels.

Bonus: Identify one area of your creative work that you want to change and outline three small steps to test it.

Use AI to Increase Efficiency

AI is reshaping the creative industry by enhancing efficiency and idea generation. But it also raises questions about originality, sustainability, and the future of creative work. Kenny shares how AI has transformed his workflow and why creatives must learn to work with technology, not against it.

Actionable Insight: Identify one AI tool that could streamline your creative process and test it for a week.

Bonus: Research the energy impact of AI tools in your industry and explore ways to balance efficiency with sustainability.

Standing Out in a Crowded Market

What separates thriving creatives from those struggling to get noticed? Quality, presentation, and strategy. Kenny emphasizes the importance of professionalism in your work. Whether it's your website, portfolio, or client interactions, small details can make a huge difference in perception.

Actionable Insight: Look at all elements of your online presence (website, social media, portfolio). Does it communicate professionalism and clarity?

Bonus: Find three standout creatives in your field and analyze what makes their branding and presentation exceptional.

Creativity as a Strategic Business Approach

Kenny’s biggest lesson? Creativity alone isn’t enough. Success comes from understanding marketing, pricing, and building relationships. You also need to stop treating your work as a hobby and approach it like a real business.

Actionable Insight: Shift your mindset from "I make art" to "I run a creative business." What’s one habit you can change to reflect that shift?

Bonus: Write a one-sentence statement defining what your creative business offers and who it helps.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Experimentation creates new opportunities

✅ Learn how to use AI wisely

✅ Professional presentation sets you apart

✅ Success requires a business mindset

✅ Adaptability is key to long-term growth

Build a Thriving Creative Business

Want to stand out, adapt to the evolving creative landscape, and turn your creativity into a sustainable business? Book a free strategy session at TheStandoutCreatives.com to take the next step.

📌 I keep these sessions limited so I can give each person my full attention—so don’t wait too long!