A Look at the Magical World of Iconic Photographer Rodney Smith

If you've been a fan of My Modern Met and want to go from a casual reader to an actual contributor, guess what, you're in luck. We're now hiring! It's an exciting time for us here as we continue to expand our business. We have been fortunate enough to build a team of writers from various educational backgrounds and skill sets—including but not limited to architecture, art history, embroidery, film, illustration, journalism, media, painting, and photography—and we are looking to expand our vast trove of expertise.

We're on the lookout for applicants who are web-savvy, love all things creative, and want to share their passion with the world. As a member of My Modern Met's team, you'll not only get to polish your writing skills, but you'll also have the opportunity to help build a dynamic digital media company that makes it a priority to stay on the pulse of what's new and exciting. Most of all, we're looking for passionate, motivated people who want to be part of something bigger.

My Modern Met's mission to spread positivity and promote creativity is always at the forefront, and we're looking for likeminded people to join our team. More than ever, it's important for us to cultivate a positive culture that allows artists and art enthusiasts to celebrate innovation, imagination, and visionary expression around the world. Read on to learn how to apply to join the My Modern Met team.

Necessary Qualifications:

• Excellent writing skills
• Understanding of social media: Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, X/Twitter, etc.
• Previous blogging/writing experience
• Passion for art, design, photography
• Quick learner

Preferred Skills (Not Required):

• Degree or background in any of the following subjects:
  • Archeology
  • History
  • Science
  • Sustainability/Environment
  • Technology
• Knowledge of WordPress

Daily and Weekly Tasks:

• Assist editors in writing articles
• Contact artists, designers, and photographers for interviews
• Help manage social media accounts and other tasks

Why People Love Working Here:

• Very flexible schedule—you can work from anywhere.
• Can build a vast portfolio of published articles with hands-on feedback.
• Get to cover a range of topics and learn about lots of interesting things in the process.
• Company culture is very important to everyone. The team supports each other.

Here's How You Can Apply:

• Email your resume to eugene@mymodernmet.com.
• In the email, please give us a brief background about yourself and answer these two questions:
  1. Why do you want to be a writer at My Modern Met?
  2. What other blogs/websites do you visit on a daily or weekly basis?
• If possible, please send us links to your blog/website.

Please Note:

• Our writers start working two to three hours per day for five days a week (hours increase from there) and will gain first-hand knowledge about working with a top art and culture website. Writers will be paid hourly. Starting at $20/hr, depending on experience. Room for growth.
• We are accepting international applicants.
• We are not accepting applicants who already possess a full-time job.

Applications will be received until Friday, November 22, 2024 at 11:59 p.m. PT.

Thanks and good luck!

Eugene Kim
Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief

READ: My Modern Met Is Searching for Contributing Writers

Photo: Stock Photos from Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Every year, people declare their New Year's resolutions and are determined to make the coming 365 days their best yet. Many think about hitting the gym or getting their finances in order. But as a creative person, you might have different goals. If you’re struggling with what to focus on in 2024, we’ve got New Year's resolution ideas that artists, photographers, designers, and crafters can easily adopt.

One of the most important resolutions you make this year is to list and keep track of your goals. Doing this, especially at the beginning of January, will give you a clearer picture of what you want to accomplish. But it’s not enough to just write down a few ideas and leave them be. Make a commitment to revisiting these goals from time to time—whether that’s weekly or monthly—to see how you’re progressing towards them and what needs to change.

Get more New Year's resolution ideas for creatives by scrolling down.

Looking for New Year's resolution ideas? Scroll down for our list of new year suggestions that are specifically for creative folks!

1. Make a list and keep track of your goals. Studies show that people who write down their goals are more likely to achieve them. But while big dreams are nice, tackling them can also feel overwhelming. Journals like Ink + Volt and the SELF Journal marry daily productivity with long-term plans to help you move towards your goals each day in a manageable way.

2. Make more time for your art. Whether it’s five minutes, an hour, or even more—extra time can lead to more creative projects. Try limiting your time on social media with an app, or better yet, taking a social media break to inspire you to buckle down on a project you’ve been wanting to try.

3. Finish a small project. Everyone has to start somewhere, so even if your resolutions list is full of large-scale projects, try including a small one to start so that you’ll feel encouraged to bring it to completion.

4. Network with creatives IRL. Join a professional networking group or attend events where you’ll be with other like-minded creative souls. (Creative Mornings is a great place to start.) Think networking is scary? Try going with a friend or meeting people online first. Just make sure you branch out while you're there!

5. Explore a new facet of your field. Is there something in your field that you’ve always wanted to try? Learning a different approach or technique isn’t just fun, but it can be beneficial, too. Once you know it, you could integrate it into your current work and take your portfolio to places you never thought it would go.

Stock Photos from Iakov Filimonov/Shutterstock

6. Make a dedicated space for you to work in. If you’ve got room, do some rearranging and make a space dedicated to creating your artwork. Even so much as having a desk is a great way to get you in the mindset of creation.

7. Attend more galleries, craft markets—anything that’s within your field. Get out of your studio and see what other people are making and doing. If you’re a painter, challenge yourself to attend more gallery shows. For makers, it’s always helpful to attend craft markets to see how other people are marketing their wares. (Both are great opportunities to network!)

8. Show your work to someone. If you’re an artist who’s starting out or a student fresh out of school, make it your goal to start showing your work to the world. This can be in person, or on social media platforms like Instagram, Behance, and TikTok.

9. Look for inspiration offline. Scrolling through Instagram can be inspiring, but it can also give you some serious envy of other people’s projects and careers. Put down your phone and tablet, close your laptop, and look for inspiration offline—whether that’s in a museum, flipping through an art magazine, exploring the urban jungle, or going on a hike. Notice what catches your eye and think about how it can inspire your work.

10. Get a new hobby. Our creative lives don't happen in a vacuum. While you're looking for inspiration away from your computer and phone, consider picking up a new interest that doesn't have anything to do with your artwork. If you're a designer, try cake decorating. You might be surprised by the ways in which another outlet will infuse your other work with new life.

11. Read more books. In addition to finding inspiration offline, another resolution idea is to read more books. They could complement your creative practice or be totally unrelated to it—who knows, you might glean some knowledge you can use in your work.

Photo: Stock Photos from Jacob Lund/Shutterstock

12. Join a Facebook group for people in your industry. This is another form of networking, albeit digital, that can help you form meaningful connections with other people in your industry. Facebook has thousands of groups for all types of creatives. My Modern Met even has one you can join: Art, Design, Photography, and Drawing Club.

13. Attend a conference. Conferences can be a financial commitment, but if you can swing them, they are valuable (and fun) opportunities to meet like-minded people, learn the latest techniques, and understand the issues that are affecting your industry.

14. Find ways to give back to your community through creativity. If you're feeling the desire to volunteer, consider ways in which you can use your creative skills to help where you live. That could be doing design work for a community organization or using your writing skills to aid another in spreading their message. Try seeking out these opportunities this year.

15. Take care of your body and mental health. You are not a machine, so make sure you take time to replenish yourself. Get enough rest (most adults need seven to nine hours of sleep) and find a workout routine that works for you. Meditation apps can help ease the mind of anxiety, and keeping a gratitude journal can show you all the good that's in your life.

16. Be afraid and do it anyway. There are a lot of ways you can talk yourself out of taking that next step in your creative practice. One of the biggest is that “it’s just not the right time.” We hate to break it to you, but there will never be a “right time,” so it’s best to just start. You’ll be glad you did.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 16 New Year’s Resolution Ideas for Creative People To Make in 2024

If you've been a fan of My Modern Met and want to go from a casual reader to an actual contributor, guess what, you're in luck. We're now hiring a video editor to help expand our online course offerings on My Modern Met Academy! It's an exciting time for us here as we continue to optimize our business.

We're looking for applicants who are web-savvy, love all things creative, and want to share their passion with the world. You'll not only get to polish your video editing skills, but you'll also have the opportunity to help build a dynamic digital media company that makes it a priority to stay on the pulse of what's new and exciting. Most of all, we're looking for passionate, motivated people who want to be part of something bigger.

Necessary Qualifications

• Video editing experience
• Proficient in Adobe Premiere Pro, After Effect, Final Cut Pro X, etc.
• Attention to detail
• Excellent time management
• Passion for art & culture
• Creative input
• Quick learner

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience creating online courses
• Understanding of social media (YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.)
• Knowledge of graphic design tools, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Canva, etc.
• Experience working with audio
• Experience working with and creating visual graphics
• Experience using Slack, Dropbox, Vimeo, Google Drive, and Asana to collaborate

Tasks

• Edit videos for My Modern Met Academy
• Assemble raw footage (5 to 25 hours) and audio to create engaging online art courses (1 to 4 hours in length)
• When necessary, create stimulating graphics, title cards, and visual effects to enhance footage
• Color correct, adjust light settings, etc. to enhance footage
• Create SRT files for English closed captioning
• Work closely with other team members

Perks

• You'll have a very flexible schedule – you can work from anywhere
• You'll build a vast portfolio of published videos for a growing creative community
• You'll gain first-hand knowledge about working with a top art & culture website

Video Editor will be paid per course: Around 50 editing hours per course. Courses are paid per minute of edited footage.

Here's How You Can Apply:
Email your resume to academy@mymodernmet.com.
In the email, please give us a brief background about yourself and answer these three questions:
1. Why do you want to be a Video Editor at My Modern Met Academy?
2. What other websites/channels do you visit on a daily or weekly basis?
3. What is your experience in editing educational videos or e-learning courses?

If possible, please send us links to your portfolio/blog/website

Please Note:
We are accepting international applicants
We are not accepting applicants who already possess a full-time job

Applications will be received until Thursday, October 5, 2023 at 11:59pm PST

Thanks and good luck!

Eugene Kim
Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief

READ: My Modern Met Academy Is Searching for a Video Editor

Photo: Stock Photos from Diego Cervo/Shutterstock

Work in a creative field and looking to make a career change? Or just curious to see what job opportunities await you as you embark on a career in the arts? Over the past several years employment practices have evolved, with more and more organizations turning to specialist sites when they seek new creative talent.

Whether you are a freelance graphic designer or an expert art handler, there is something for everyone. We've scoured the web and pulled together our top creative job boards for those who are seeking new career opportunities. And while we've focused on the United States, several sites also list international opportunities or focus exclusively on the UK. The nice part is that many also allow you to upload a portfolio, helping attract potential employers.

Take a look at what's out there and polish up your resume, as you'll see there's no shortage of work in the creative sectors.

These are the 16 top creative job boards to help you find your big break in the art and design world.

AIGA

America's oldest, and largest, professional association for designers has a rich job board with work for heavy hitters like Facebook and MTV, as well as niche organizations. It's possible to search separate sections for internships and pro bono work, in addition to professional positions.

Alliance of Artist Communities

A great resource for those looking for arts positions at museums, residencies, universities, and art centers across the United States.

Americans for the Arts

This non-profit was founded in the 1960s to advance and support the arts in America. Their job bank has a wealth of positions for creatives. Most of the jobs here are at larger institutions looking for support in development, fundraising, teaching, or curation. The Smithsonian Institute, North Carolina Symphony, and the American Academy in Rome are just some of the organizations that post open positions.

Art, Frankly

Over 1,750 art institutions post jobs on Art, Frankly. Designed to make the hiring process more transparent and inclusive, current listings include the Director of Communications at the New Museum, as well as the Director of the Affordable Art Fair. There are also listings for illustrators and graphic designers. You'll need to sign up to see all of the listings, but looking for jobs is free of charge.

Art Jobs

This site's straightforward name describes exactly what it gives you—art jobs. Creative positions around the globe are posted here with opportunities for curators and gallerists to individual artists. For instance, one current listing includes a search for someone specialized in hand-lettering, while another seeks out an artist with experience in comic coloring. In addition to jobs, you can also look for residencies, open calls, and art prizes.

Art Search

With its straightforward interface, and prestigious listings from organizations like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and Oakland Symphony, this job board is perfect for those looking for the best jobs in the arts. The board not only has listings with museums and galleries, but also theaters and libraries.

Art Station

If you are looking for a creative career in gaming, you'll want to check out Art Station. Several international gaming studios seek out talent here, looking for high-quality creative professionals. From game artists to VFX artists, there are lots of positions to fill.

Authentic Jobs

Companies like Apple, Facebook, ESPN, and HBO have been using Authentic Jobs since 2005 to fill creative positions. It's especially rich in design and marketing positions.

Behance

Behance isn't only a place to show off your creative portfolio. This go-to design site also has global listings in creative fields across the board, from furniture design and film to branding and art direction.

Coroflot

The portfolio site also has an active job board that allows you to search by company and keyword, as well as location, with listings both in the United States and abroad. HP, AT&T, Fox Sports, and Skullcandy are just some of the companies that search for talent here. If you are interested in teaching, several universities also put out calls for professors in creative fields here, including the Massachusetts College of Art & Design and Cornell University.

Creative Pool

Primarily aimed at designers, this job board is a fantastic resource for those seeking opportunities in the UK or remote work. IBM, Canon, Google, and Electronic Arts are just some of the companies that place job listings on the site.

Photo: Stock Photos from Nitsawan Katerattanakul/Shutterstock

Dezeen Jobs

In synch with its editorial content, Dezeen's job board has international listings focusing on architecture and design. Design opportunities include multiple sections, like interior design, graphic design, and lighting design. As Dezeen is based in the UK, most of the opportunities follow suit, though international listings are sprinkled throughout.

Dribbble

A top platform for showing off your creative portfolio, Dribble's job listings have included work from companies like Vimeo, Tumblr, Amazon, and Microsoft. If you are designer searching for global career opportunities, Dribble is a must visit job board.

Indeed

A mammoth listing site with jobs across the board, Indeed's creative jobs section contains opportunities from top level brands and creative corporations, like NBC Universal, Facebook, Adidas, Bloomingdales, and Bloomberg. And if you are just getting started in your career, you can also find work with individuals or small brands to help you build up your portfolio. You can even sign up for email alerts to make sure new listings don't pass you by.

Krop

Originally a private mailing list, Krop has grown into a service that helps you build a portfolio website. But it still has an excellent job board, particularly if you are looking for a graphic design position. The site allows you to post your portfolio online, putting your work in front of agencies and organizations like ESPN, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Electronic Arts.

ScreenSkills

This UK organization that works with screen-based creatives has a job board filled with production jobs across the UK. These creative listings for film and television include big hitters like the BBC and ITV, as well as work with production companies and studios. In addition to your normal search options, the job board lets you search for listings based on your level of experience.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 16 Top Job Boards to Discover New Creative Career Opportunities

Whether you are a professional photographer looking to gain more exposure or an amateur who wants to know how your work stacks up against your peers, photography competitions are a fantastic way to stretch yourself and grow your craft. From free photo contests to paid photography awards, it's possible to invest as little—or as much—as you'd like. And sometimes, the rewards can be life-changing.

From cash prizes to traveling exhibitions at renowned institutions, the best photography contests give their participants the opportunity to show their best work to a wider audience. Most contests have separate professional and amateur divisions, as well as youth competitions for young photographers—and you don't always have to pay. Contests like the EyeEm Awards and the Smithsonian Photo Contest are free of charge, while others charge nominal fees to enter multiple photographs. Additionally, the deadlines for these challenges vary from the start of the year to late into the summer or even the fall.

With such a wide variety of photography competitions, you can decide whether you want to try your hand at one of the larger contests with a range of categories for all types of photography, such as the International Photo Awards, or go more niche. Underwater photography, architectural photography, astrophotography, wedding photography, and pet photography are just some competitions that let you hone in on specific aspects of the craft. Whether you win 1st place or become a finalist, these events will surely boost your creative practice.

To help you find what photo contest meets your needs, we've pulled together a list of the best photography competitions—in alphabetical order—that you'll want to consider entering. Over the years we've featured all of these contests, many times publishing early entries and finalists, in addition to winners—proving that you can gain valuable press coverage whether you win or not.

Our list of the best photography contests covers a wide range of photography from wildlife to fine art.

Matt Emmett, overall winner, Arcaid Photography Awards 2016. (Photo: Matt Emmett/Arcaid Images)

The Architectural Photography Awards

Architectural photographers compete in six categories—Exterior, Interior, Sense of Place, Portfolio, Mobile Architecture Photography, and Buildings in Use—for a chance at cash prizes and having their work exhibited at the World Architecture Festival.

When to enter: Annually from March to July
Entry fee: One-time registration of £55 allows entrants to submit up to 3 images to each category
Prize: $3,000 and exhibition at the World Architecture Festival.

Audubon Photography Awards

Combine your love of birds and photography by competing in the Audubon Photography Awards. Participants must be legal residents of the U.S. or Canada and at least 13 years of age. Winning photos will be published in the Audubon and Nature’s Best Photography magazines, as well as go on exhibit at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

When to enter: Annually from January 11, 2023, to March 1, 2023
Entry fee: $15 per image; Youth competition is FREE
Prize: Cash prizes up to $5,000.

B&W Child Photo Competition

Celebrate the beauty of childhood across the world by submitting your most stunning black and white images of children. Photographers compete in four categories—Portrait, Fine Art, Lifestyle, and Documentary & Street. The contest accepts international entries and there is no limit on the number of submissions per photographer. It has two submission periods per year; the 1st half at the beginning and the 2nd half at the latter part of the year.

When to enter:1st half at the beginning of the year until July; 2nd half from August to the end of the year
Entry fee: €10 for a single image, €20 for 3 images, €30 for 5 images
Prize: €1,000 each for two Grand Prize winners, €100 for category winners.

Best of the Best Photo Contests for Weddings

Wedding photographers are encouraged to show off their best wedding images in annual contests run by Junebug Weddings. The theme for the contest changes with each competition.

When to enter: Varies depending on the contest
Entry fee: $28 for up to 15 images for non-members. Members can submit up to 3 photos for free or up to 15 images for $18
Prize: 50 winning entries are featured on the website, with a link to their blog.

BigPicture Natural World Photography Competition

Run by the California Academy of Sciences, this international photo contest celebrates “the rich diversity of life on Earth and inspires action to protect and conserve it through the power of imagery.” Photographers can submit work across seven different categories such as the art of nature, aquatic life, terrestrial wildlife, and winged life.

When to enter: Annually from December 2022, to March 1, 2023
Entry fee: $25 for up to 10 single image submissions in any category, $15 for 1 photo series (3-5 images)
Prize: $5,000 to the overall winner, $1,000 for category winners. Participation in an annual exhibit at the California Academy of Sciences.

Bird Photographer of the Year

This global competition asks wildlife photographers to submit their best bird photography across 9 categories, including best youth photographer. There are also two special prizes up for grabs—best portfolio and crowd choice. Participants can submit single photos or an entire portfolio.

When to enter: Annually from mid-August to the end of November
Entry fee: From £6, participants can enter up to 8 images per category
Prize: £5,000 for the grand prize winner, camera equipment for the portfolio prize winner (a £3,500 retail value), and a pair of Swarovski CL Companion 8×30 binoculars for category winners. All winners receive a portfolio review from the Director of Photography at Alamy.

Sasha Dudkina, EyeEm Photographer of the Year 2017. (Photo: Sasha Dudkina)

British Wildlife Photography Awards

Created to focus on the glory of British wildlife, photographers of all nationalities are encouraged to enter the contest, but their images must be taken in the United Kingdom. The 15 separate categories also include a prize for wildlife in HD video, and two separate prizes are awarded to young photographers. The top entries are included in a traveling exhibition across Britain, as well as a coffee table book.

When to enter: Annually from November to April of the next year
Entry fee: From £10; Youth competition (up to 6 images) is FREE
Prize: £5,000 for grand prize winner, while some adult category winners receive a cash prize of £500 and new camera equipment. The Wildlife in HD Video category will receive a new camcorder. The winning pictures and best entries will be included in a touring exhibition across the UK as well as a coffee table book.

Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

If you like to see the humor in the natural world, this photography contest is for you. Founded by the wildlife charity, Born Free Foundation, the awards are a light-hearted way to bring attention to conservation issues. In addition to four categories for adults and a youth competition, videographers are encouraged to enter their funniest video clips. But note, photographs of domestic, captive or enclosed wildlife of any description are not allowed.

When to enter: Entries accepted through August 23, 2023
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: Overall winner receives a trophy and one-week safari in Kenya.

Dog Photographer of the Year

The Kennel Club, the UK’s largest organization focusing on the welfare of dogs, runs this annual, international contest. Photographers can enter in 10 categories, including Dog Portrait, Dogs at Play, Assistance Dogs, and Rescue Dogs. There are also two youth categories for young photographers.

When to enter: Annually from February to April
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: Overall winner receives a SmugMug business account and mentorship day with an acclaimed dog photographer. All winners will have their work displayed at the Kennel Club Art Gallery in London, as well as a prize package.

Drone Awards

Part of the Art Photo Travel Association, this worldwide competition is open to aerial photography and videos whose platforms also include “fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, balloons, blimps and dirigibles, rockets, kites, and parachutes.”

When to enter: Entries are accepted from April to June.
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: The Drone Photographer of the Year will be awarded a prize package that includes €500,00 worth of photography equipment and more.

EyeEm Awards

This leading photo community, which also licenses images, runs what they call the largest photo competition for rising photographers. They annually award prizes in 10 categories, including The Street Photographer, The Great Outdoors, The Portraitist, The Photojournalist, and The Architect. Additionally, the Photographer of the Year is selected based on their body of work and potential for growth.

When to enter: Entries accepted until the end of July
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: Photographer of the Year wins €1,000, a feature in EyeEm Magazine and Format Magazine, and more.

Fine Art Photography Awards

Seeking “photos born out of passion,” the international contest is open to both amateur and professional photographers. With 20 different categories to select from, there is no shortage of artistic themes that will allow photographers to display their creativity.

When to enter: Annually; deadline is February 23, 2023
Entry fee: From $15 per photo
Prize: $3,000 for Professional Photographer of the Year, $2000 for Amateur Photographer of the Year.

bachirm, 1st prize winner Urban, 2017 International Drone Photography Contest. (Photo: bachirm)

Insight Astronomy Photographer of the Year

The world’s biggest astrophotography competition draws photographers from across the globe, who compete across nine different categories. Amateur and professional photographers are encouraged to apply for the contest, which is judged by representatives of NASA and the editor of BBC Sky at Night Magazine. Children are encouraged to apply in the special youth competition for photographers under 15 years old.

When to enter: Annually until early March
Entry fee: FREE up to 10 images
Prize: £10,000 for overall winner and £1,500 for overall category winners. Cash prizes are also given to category runners-up.

International Landscape Photographer of the Year

Celebrate the art and craft of landscape photography with this contest, which is open to photographers around the world. The top landscape photographs are collected into an annual book and photographers are awarded for best single images, as well as portfolios of four photographs.

When to enter: Entries close at the end of November
Entry fee: $25 per photo, every fifth photograph is free
Prize: Grand prize of $5,000 as well as inclusion in awards book. Second prize of $1,000 and third prize of $500, as well as photo book inclusion.

International Photo Awards

These prestigious awards cover a comprehensive range of photography and allow entries into separate Professional, Amateur, and Student competitions. From editorial and advertising to fine art and sports, this is one of the most wide-ranging contests, with over $22,000 in cash prizes annually.

When to enter: Entries close mid-July
Entry fee: $15-$35 per single image, $30-$60 per series depending on professional, amateur, or student status
Prize: International Photographer of the Year receives $12,000, Discovery of the Year Award $5,000, category winners (professional) win $1,000, and category winners (non-professional) win $500. All category finalist receive two tickets to the Lucie Awards Gala in New York City.

International Photographer of the Year

IPOTY is an international competition open to professional and non-professional photographers, who are asked to submit to a wide range of categories and subcategories. Photographers are encouraged to apply to multiple categories and receive exposure through extensive media coverage.

When to enter: Annually from mid-February to mid-December
Entry fee: From $20 per single image
Prize: Professional Grand Prize of $2,500, Amateur Grand Prize of $1,500

Melissa Amber & Ashley Nicole, Black & White Conceptual Series of the Year 2017, MonoVisions Photography Awards. (Photo: Melissa Amber & Ashley Nicole)

iPhone Photography Awards

The IPPA are awarded exclusively for images shot with an iPhone or iPad, with any postproduction limited to iOS apps. Photographers compete across 18 categories, including series of up to 3 images.

When to enter: Entries accepted until the end of March
Entry fee: From $3.50 per image
Prize: Grand Prize winner receives a prize that is TBA. The first place winner of each category receives a Gold Bar.

Mobile Photography Awards

Mobile and tablet photographers are encouraged to submit their best work across 18 categories to express the artistry and creativity of mobile photography. Top images are included in a traveling exhibition and are available for sale.

When to enter: Annually from October to mid-December
Entry fee: From $15 per image
Prize: Grand Prize of $3,000

Monochrome Photo Awards

This international black-and-white photography contest awards separate prizes to professional and amateur photographers for entries in 13 categories. From architecture and wildlife to fine art and photo manipulation, the awards challenge participants to show their creativity.

When to enter: Entries are accepted through early July
Entry fee: $20 per entry (amateur) / $25 per entry (professional)
Prize: Overall professional winner $3,000 and overall amateur winner $1,000. Winners are also featured in the Monochrome Photography Awards Annual Book.

MonoVisions

This black-and-white photography magazine holds an annual competition to celebrate the best of monochrome photography. Participants compete in two different sections, single photographs and series of up to 8 photographs.

When to enter: Entries are accepted through mid-May (early deadline is the end of January)
Entry fee: From $20 per single image / $25 per series
Prize: $5,000 in cash prizes

Danny Yen Sin Wong, 1st prize Open Color, Siena International Photography Awards 2016. (Photo: Danny Yen Sin Wong)

National Geographic Travel Photo Contest

Share your best snaps of life around the world in the National Geographic Travel Photo Contest. Three categories—Nature, People, and Cities—allow photographers to show how their travel imagery is revealing, transporting, and exciting.

When to enter: Annually from mid-March to the end of April
Entry fee: Starts at $10 per entry
Prize: Grand prize of $7,500. First place winners receive $2,500, second place $1,500, third place $750.

National Wildlife Photo Contest

For over 40 years, the National Wildlife Federation has run this prestigious competition celebrating the glory of nature. The eight categories include Birds, Reptiles and Amphibians, Mammals, and People in Nature.

When to enter: Annually from January to March
Entry fee: $20 for 10 photos
Prize: Grand prize of $5,000. First place category winners receive $500, second place category winners receive $250.

Nikon Small World Contest

This contest, which has been going for over 40 years, recognizes photography taken through the light microscope. It’s a leading showcase for photomicrographers from a variety of science disciplines. While participants aren’t required to use Nikon equipment, as images must be taken using a light microscope.

When to enter: Entries accepted until late-April
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: First prize $3,000. 2nd to 20th place winners receive cash prizes ranging from $200 to $2,000.

Red Bull Illume

Red Bull runs this international photography contest dedicated to action and adventure sports, which is also sponsored by Sony. The competition has been running every three years since 2007, with the next contest taking place in 2019. All finalist images participate in an international traveling exhibition.

When to enter: Entries accepted until late July
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: €100,000 in consumer goods and photography equipment to the overall winner and category winners.

Siena International Photo Awards

This international photo contest receives over 50,000 images from amateur and professional photographers. Whether Sports in Action or Story-telling, the categories allow photographers to show the best in their portfolio. Winners are announced at an annual ceremony in Siena, Italy.

When to enter: Annually from October to January
Entry fee: Professionals can enter one image for free and have to pay beyond that point.
Prize: €1,500 for Photo of the Year, €500 for Storyboard Winner. Photo of the Year, Storyboard Winner, and Category Winners receive stays in Siena, Italy during award ceremony weekend.

Sergey Gorshkov, Finalist, Animal Portraits, Wildlife Photographer of the Year 2017. (Photo: Sergey Gorshkov / Wildlife Photographer of the Year)

Smithsonian Photo Contest

Smithsonian.com has run their international photo contest for 15 years, asking photographers to submit their best photographs across six categories, including one for Mobile photography. Photo entries will be judged based on creativity, quality, originality, responsiveness to the prompt, and overall impact.

When to enter: Annually from early April to the end of November
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: $2,500 Grand Prize, $500 for Category Winners and Readers’ Choice award.

Sony World Photography Awards

For over a decade, Sony and the World Photography Organisation have run this competition, which unfolds in four sections—professional, open, youth, and student. Professional photographers are judged on a body of work, while the open competition awards single images. One of the world’s leading photo contests, the total prize fund is $30,000. All shortlisted photos participated in an exhibition at Somerset House in London and will be published in Sony World Photography Awards book.

When to enter: Entry deadline is between December and January depending on the competition section
Entry fee: FREE
Prize: $25,000 Photographer of the Year, category winners receive a trip to London for the awards ceremony.

Travel Photographer of the Year

Also known as TPOTY, this photographer-founded contest celebrates travel photography. The international competition culminates in an exhibition in London, selected from the 9 competition categories. These include Earth & Climate, Food, and Tales of Adventure.

When to enter: Entries accepted from April to October
Entry fee: Starts at £8 for single images; Youth competition is FREE
Prize: £5,000 and prize package for Overall Winner. Category and portfolios winners receive prize packages.

Underwater Photographer of the Year

Across 10 categories, underwater photography is heralded as an art form in this long-running competition. This is an international contest, though several categories are only open to images taken in the waters of the UK. The 2017 contest saw a new category—Underwater Photography Book.

When to enter: Annually from November to early January
Entry fee: Starts at £12 for three images
Prize: The Underwater Photographer of the Year gets first to pick something from the prize-pool featuring a variety of incredible awards.

Wildlife Photographer of the Year

The Natural History Museum in London runs this prestigious competition focusing on wildlife photography. Photographers are invited to submit their best work in 16 categories, such as Animals in their Environment, Urban Wildlife, and Behavior. There is also a separate youth competition.

When to enter: Annually from late October to mid-December
Entry fee: £30
Prize: £10,000 for Wildlife Photographer of the Year, £2,500 for Portfolio winner and Photojournalism Awards. Cash prizes for category winners.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 30 Best Photography Competitions To Elevate Your Craft

Photo credit: Ruslan Grumble / Shutterstock. This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Throughout the years, we here at My Modern Met have seen the amazing and innovative ways in which creative entrepreneurs have grown their career. One way is by running their own online shop. It's something that you can do, too.

If you're producing great work—be it painting, jewelry, or photography—you should make it available to people across the world. By doing so, you're creating opportunities for these folks to get to know and love your work firsthand, which can take your career in places that wouldn't have been possible before. In the past, we've marveled at makers who, from their own shop, have gone to collaborate with brands or had their artwork shown in galleries.

Once you've decided to make the investment and start your own online store, the next step is to select a platform. Like blogging, it can seem like you have endless options when it comes to eCommerce. So, what will you choose?

Shopify is one of the most popular eCommerce platforms for selling your creative goods. In fact, you may not have noticed but you’ve probably bought something from a store that uses it. And if you can’t tell that the store uses Shopify, then it’s doing its job! Shopify is meant to give online stores a stylish framework for selling their wares. Unlike other sites, Shopify isn’t a marketplace. You can’t go to their website and browse thousands of products. Rather, you go to the store’s unique URL and browse only their products—not their competitor’s wares.

There are other advantages to picking Shopify as your store platform. One big plus is its flexibility. Nearly every aspect of your shop can be tweaked to your liking. From the design to 3rd party apps that help you run your business, Shopify lets you customize things based on your needs.

Setting up your Shopify shop is an easy process, and you can do it in less than 15 minutes. We'll show you how through these 5 steps.

1. Sign up for Shopify.
2. Get acquainted with the dashboard.
3. Pick a theme for your shop.
4. List your first product.
5. Add 3rd party products to make your eCommerce a breeze.

Step 1: Sign up for Shopify.

If you're still unsure about creating your online shop, that's okay! Shopify gives you a 14-day free trial with no credit card required.

Start by filling out your email address, password, and store name. Then click “Create your store.”

It will take a moment, but then you'll see this happy screen…

That screen will automatically take you to a form. There, you'll fill out three questions that help Shopify get to know you. After you're done, click “Next.”

Now, add an address so you can get paid. Once you hit the green button “Enter my store,” it'll take you to the Shopify dashboard.

Step 2: Learn the dashboard.

Like many online web interfaces, Shopify has a dashboard. This central location will be where you can view your orders, list products, offer promotional discounts, and more. Everything you'll need to use is accessible on the left-hand side of the page under the green Shopify logo.

Step 3: Customize your shop with a theme.

One of the greatest things about Shopify is that it has a ton of themes to choose from—you can let your personality shine. That way, when people land on your website, they'll instantly get a feel for who you are and what you're selling.

To begin customizing your page, click the “Customize” button on the dashboard. The default theme is called Debut, and it is a standard, clean layout. You have links at the top with a large image that spans across the screen. Products are located below. It's also mobile responsive, meaning that it'll look great on a laptop, tablet, or phone.

To start customizing this theme, click the “Customize theme” button at the top, right-hand side of the page.

Customizing a storefront looks like this. Everything is very visual—no hard coding required. On the left-hand side of the screen, click on any one of the buttons to change things like the header, your featured products, and color schemes. You'll be able to see how it looks on the right.

But maybe you don't want the Debut theme. Don't worry—Shopify has you covered! Visit their “Theme Store” to search for free or paid designs to fit exactly what you're looking for. They've got a whole marketplace that's organized around what a store owner would need. Maybe you've got a large inventory or need a grid-style layout. Shopify themes has them both.

Step 4: List your first product.

You're never going to get any sales if you don't list your first product. Luckily, it's easy to do. Like the rest of Shopify, it's very visual and user friendly. To get there from your dashboard, just click on “Products” on the left-hand side of the screen.

The online form has a place to title your product, add a description, and upload a photo. Depending on how you organize your inventory, you can select a product type and add it to a collection. By doing this, you're making it easier for people to find on your website.

Step 5: Add 3rd party products to maximize your shop.

You can take your Shopify experience further by adding apps to your shop. Think about it like a plugin on WordPress—you can automate certain aspects of the store to help you save time and increase your sales.

To start using apps, click on the “Apps” button in your dashboard. It's near the bottom of the screen on the left. Once you're in, it'll look like this:

Shopify has its recommended apps, but that's not all they offer. Clicking on the blue “Visit Shopify App Store” will take you into a separate window where you can explore all the different plugins to add to your store.

For shipping, one app we recommend is ShipStation. It automates the process of order fulfillment and prints shipping labels—so they're ready to go in minutes. All you have to do is get your goods to your mail carrier. It currently has a 30-day free trial with a 5/5 satisfaction score from Shopify users.

Of course, the apps don't stop there. And although the amount of choices can seem overwhelming, it doesn't have to be. We recommend you start slow and build your shop bit by bit—you'll know what kind of app and themes to look for as your business continues to grow.

For additional help navigating the waters of creating your own online store, Shopify has a frequently updated blog filled with tips—and that's in addition to a resourceful list of guides. This includes 50 ways to make your first sale, how to market on Instagram, and a rundown of the growth benefits of email marketing. And the site has a growing list of success stories, too! Click here to see some firsthand accounts from those who have opened up their own Art & Photography stores through Shopify.

Now that you know how to create a store on Shopify, give it a try for free!

This article has been edited and updated.

READ: How to Create a Store on Shopify to Sell Your Creative Products

This post is sponsored by Canvy. Our partners are handpicked by My Modern Met’s team because they represent the best in design and innovation.

When an artist sells their artwork online, it's imperative that they make the process as seamless as possible for their customers. One difficulty people often face when purchasing art online is visualizing how it will actually look once it's hung on their wall. Luckily, thanks to Canvy, creatives will easily be able to show potential customers just how good their artwork looks when framed and hung.

How does it work? Creatives simply upload images of their artwork and then select one of over 400 room templates to display them in. By showing work in-situ, it's easy for artists to let their fans see just what their work will look like once it's in their home. Canvy doesn't just stop at providing room templates, however. To give creatives the best chance at selling their work, they provide features that allow users to change the type of walls and the colors of the accessories in the room. That means artists can switch things up and view different wall backdrops that best matches their desired aesthetic. Whether it's brick, concrete, or wood paneling, it's possible to find a good match for the style of the artwork.

Along these lines, being able to switch up the colors of the accessories, whether it be the color of the couch or throw pillows, gives the opportunity to simulate a room that enhances the artwork instead of them competing with it. And, of course, there are different frames and mattes to select from. This attention to detail is vital in helping creatives create beautiful images that show off their talent.

So where can you use Canvy's room simulations? The real question is, where can't they be used? From the portfolio page of a website to a shopping portal to social media—the uses are endless. And, for creatives using Etsy, Canvy has a built-in Etsy integration that allows users to publish their finished rooms straight to their store. Artists can also create a website directly in Canvy using a custom domain name to show off their artwork in a polished, professional manner.

If all that weren't enough, Canvy becomes an even more powerful tool due to the possibility for it to act as an art inventory. Once artists upload their work, they can insert details like medium, date of creation, and description. But, it's also possible to mark whether the work is for sale or not, include a link for purchase, and enter the price—you're also given the power to decide whether that shows to the public.

The room templates can also be used in helping set up exhibitions, as artists can see how a collection of their work looks on a wall and they can play with the layout. This can greatly cut down on time for installations and also makes communicating with curators—particularly at a distance—more effective.

If you're ready to test out Canvy, their free membership includes 13 free rooms (without watermark), Etsy integration, and the website maker. Their paid plans, which include all of their room templates (without watermark) start at just $9 per month if paid yearly.

Canvy is an online tool that helps creatives sell their art.

Artists can insert their work directly into one of over 400 customizable room templates.

It's even possible to change the colors of the room's accessories to enhance the art.

Once uploaded, artists can use Canvy as an inventory to track and sell their art.

Canvy's simulations can also assist when mocking up gallery layouts.

Canvy: Website | Instagram | Facebook

READ: These Customizable Art Room Mockups Let You Take Your Art Sales to a New Level

Photo: Stock Photos from Dean Drobot/Shutterstock
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Do you have a handmade product that you want to introduce to the world? One of the best places to do that is on Etsy. The massive online marketplace is continually showcasing the latest and greatest handmade items from makers around the world. From stylish home goods to things for your pet, there is likely a place for you on the site.

Etsy was founded in 2005 and by 2007, had its one-millionth sale. The popularity of the site has only continued to grow, and landing a spot on the home page or as an editor’s pick can bring a rush of new customers to your shop.

Wondering how to get started on Etsy and make your time selling there a success? Read on to learn more about building your Etsy shop as well as six of our top tips to know when opening your virtual doors.

Why Choose Etsy?

Photo: Stock Photos from Postmodern Studio/Shutterstock

One of the biggest reasons to choose Etsy is because of its popularity among vast groups of people. It has become synonymous with one-of-a-kind and handmade—a benefit for buyers and sellers. And best of all, people visit the site because they’re looking to buy something. They are primed and ready to purchase. All they need to do is to find (and fall in love with) your store.

Logistically, starting an Etsy shop is easy. You don't need to know any coding or have any specialized knowledge of e-commerce platforms to set up a successful store. You'll sign up on the site and there will be instructions on what you'll need to do to create your first listing, set up banking, fill out the about section, and more.

Getting to Know Etsy

How much does Etsy cost?

It costs nothing to open an Etsy store. And unlike other e-commerce platforms, there’s no monthly fee. Instead, you’ll pay .20 cents for each listing and once an item sells, Etsy will automatically deduct 5% of the sale price from your earnings.

This makes it a relatively low risk to open an Etsy shop. If you list five things and none of them sell, you’ve only spent $1 in fees. Consider this when comparing other platforms, which may charge a monthly fee no matter if you sell anything or not.

How will buyers find my stuff?

The marketplace continually refines how items are organized on its site and has become granular with its categories. When you’re listing your items, you’ll want to get as specific as possible to ensure that people browsing your chosen category (or categories) can easily find you. To do that, you’ll want to make sure that you determine keywords for your product. This will help ensure that you are placed in the correct group.

In addition to robust categories, Etsy allows registered users to favorite individual shops and individual items. They can also add them to curated lists that are, by default, public. These lists are another way for people to organically find you. And finally, Etsy editors are always looking and curating lists for various gifts.

How much can I customize my Etsy shop?

Like other online marketplaces, each shop will look about the same (with the exception of the photography and products you supply). So in terms of customization—such as colors and layout—there are limitations. That’s why your photography, titles, and item descriptions are so important. They let you differentiate yourself from others on Etsy.

Top Tips for Succeeding on Etsy

Photo: Stock Photos from rblfmr/Shutterstock

1. Carefully consider your titles.

Titles, along with your photographs, are the first thing that potential customers will see when they are looking at your shop or discovering your products via search. Use search engine optimization (SEO) research to determine relevant keywords that describe your products but are also something that people would search for, too.

For example: if you create embroidery kits, you’ll want to include the keywords “embroidery kit” and “DIY kit” in your title since those are topics people search for and they are an accurate depiction of your product.

2. Take advantage of new Etsy features.

Etsy periodically rolls out new features in order to keep up with overall internet trends. In 2020, for instance, it introduced the ability to place videos in your listing.

There are a couple of reasons to take advantage of new features. For one, there’s a good chance it will help you communicate more about your product to a potential customer—always a great thing. But the other perk to trying a new feature (even if it is in beta mode) is that Etsy might “boost” those listings that are testing the new feature and make them appear better in search (or more).

3. Snap great photos to stand out.

Because buyers see your product in person before they purchase, you’ll want to give them as much visual information about it as possible. That’s why it’s imperative that you take the best photos possible of your handiwork. Show the product in natural light and from multiple viewpoints (if necessary) and also show it in use; let customers imagine it in their lives by placing it in an environment. Or if you make wearables, show someone modeling your items.

One way to see how to style your photos is to look at what’s on the front page of Etsy or in the editor’s picks. Are the photos brightly lit? Colorful? How can you be inspired by these attributes for your own images?

Photo: Stock Photos from Kaspars Grinvalds/Shutterstock

4. Be detailed in your item descriptions.

Along with titles and photos, item descriptions are one of the most important parts of your listing. They give you the opportunity to explain your design process, materials used, dimensions of the item, and basically persuade people, telling them why they should buy your product. Use this space to write why someone needs your work in their lives. Maybe that’s by sharing the story behind it or pointing out how it makes a great gift.

5. Deliver great customer service.

This should go without saying, but delivering optimal customer service will help you in more ways than one. Hopefully, it’ll get you a great review after your item is delivered and a loyal customer that will buy from you again.

So, how do you do this? Make a buyer feel special. Be responsive if they have any questions about your product; the “messages” function of Etsy is your friend. Also, go the extra mile with your packaging. A nice handwritten note tucked in with your product is always welcome, and you can take it to the next level with thoughtful touches like gift wrap as well as freebies like stickers.

6. Be observant of like-minded shops and trends.

To be clear, you never want to copy what someone is doing. Not only is it unethical, but it’s also just not a creatively fulfilling thing to do. But, do be observant about what shops like yours are doing. How are they snapping photos? What kind of keywords are they using for people to find their products? This can give you inspiration for your own shop.

Another thing to look out for is trends. Etsy releases trend reports over the year and they’re always worth going over. They include things that Etsy sees as “up-and-coming” in categories including art, fashion, home, and more. If you can market your products to one of those trends—or even create a product that is part of it—there’s a chance that Etsy will place it in its “trending categories” that often appear as editors picks or on the front page.

Want more Etsy tips? Learn seven secrets of Etsy success from thriving shop owners. 

It never hurts to take a course about Etsy to learn about this robust marketplace. The Etsy Training Course from Merriweather Council is a beloved e-course that shows you how to make the most of Etsy. The course content is updated as Etsy makes changes, and you have access to it all forever.

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READ: Want to Sell Your Handmade Products on Etsy? Here’s How to Get Started Today

Photo: popcorner / Shutterstock

Podcasts have exploded over the past few years. (We've got Serial to thank for it.) Now, the once-niche audio format has become mainstream. You can find everything from enthralling true stories to fantastical fiction to hilarious comedy. With such a wide range of topics, there is truly something for everyone—especially if you're in a field like photography, art, and design. We've selected some of the best creative podcasts to educate and inspire you.

Many of the podcasts on this list are in an interview format. The benefit of this is two-fold; first, you get to hear advice from some of the top creatives in their field; and second, it's a nice reminder that these industry giants are human. They've gone through their fair share of struggles and feelings of doubt. But instead of letting these negative feelings overcome them, they rose to the challenge to create a spectacular career. Regardless if the interviewee is a writer, entertainer, or woodworker, you can find something that applies to you. After all, you never know where your next great piece of wisdom will come from—maybe it will be one of these podcasts!

Looking for inspiration? Advice? Check out some of the best creative podcasts to get your creative juices flowing!

Adventures in Design

Top Artist: My Modern Met has its very own podcast that goes in-depth with creatives via one on one interviews. Episodes are biweekly and feature an array of our favorite painters, photographers, illustrators, sculptors, and more. We use our time to pick their brains on their career development and creative process, as well as their most iconic work.

Ted Radio Hour: Based on the wildly successful Ted Talks, the Ted Radio Hour features “fascinating ideas, astonishing inventions, and new ways to think and create.” One of the most recent shows is about success and how we can define it beyond wealth and status.

Fresh Air: The Peabody Award-winning show is hosted by the iconic Terry Gross, who talks to the likes of contemporary writers, actors, historians, and more. Few topics seem to be off limits, and the enlightening interviews give us insight into the minds of great thinkers.

How I Built This: Guy Raz speaks to innovators, entrepreneurs, and idealists about the “movements they built.” The interviews reflect positive as well as negative moments, from triumphs to failures. If you're interested in the ins-and-outs of starting and growing a business, this is the podcast for you.

The Moment: Hosted by Brian Koppelman, this Slate-produced podcast talks to famous folks about the defining moments of their creative careers.

PetaPixel Photography Podcast: PetaPixel is one of our favorite photography websites, and twice a week they host a show on just that. Combining “news, opinions, humor, and real-world experience,” the relatively short episodes are perfect for your daily commute.

Art For Your Ear: Danielle Krysa of the contemporary art blog Jealous Curator started Art For Your Ear in 2015. “When I studied art history in university,” she explains, “my favorite part was, well, basically the gossip. I loved hearing why artists did certain things.” Over 100 episodes later, she's heard touching and hilarious stories from My Modern Met favorites like Zemer Peled and Rebecca Louise Law.

Online Marketing Made Easy

Creative Pep Talk: Designer and illustrator Andy J. Miller wants to help creative entrepreneurs make a good living while producing work they're proud of. Through artist interviews and his own stories, Miller shows how you can strike a balance between art and business to achieve success in your career.

Clever: Clever is hosted by Jaime Derringer, the Founder and Executive Director of Design Milk, and Amy Devers, a designer and Emmy-winning television personality. Together, they have conversations with designers who are responsible for the “objects and environments that shape our lives.”

Design Matters: Design Matters is the world's first design podcast. Started in 2005 by Debbie Millman, it prides itself on wide-ranging conversations from designers, writers, artists, and other contemporary thinkers.

The Accidental Creative: For over 10 years, The Accidental Creative has helped people push themselves in their professional lives. Part advice and part interview, the podcast topics include fighting perfectionism, dealing with uncertainty, and “strategic slacking.”

99% Invisible: 99% Invisible originally started as a collaborative project between San Francisco-based public radio station KALW and the American Institute of Architects. Focusing on the “unseen and overlooked” elements of design and architecture, each episode is on a single topic. It offers a powerful reminder to not ignore the small things—often, they make a huge impact.

Adventures In Design: Marketing itself as a “daily talk show,” host Mark Brickey speaks with creatives about how they design happiness into their professional lives. In addition to the podcast, Adventures In Design hosts workshops that will help your business grow.

Online Marketing Made Easy: Love it or hate it, online marketing is vital for your career. Amy Porterfield breaks it down in her informative podcast that ranges from interviews to covering the ever-changing algorithms on social media.

Beyond the Studio

Creative Boom: Created by the popular website by the same name, the Creative Boom podcast seeks to inspire listeners via interviews with top creators. Hosted by Creative Boom founder and editor Katy Cowan, the podcast is “full of fun and honest conversations with creative people that will inspire.”

Art Marketing Podcast: Many artists wonder how they can sell more art and get ahead. The Art Marketing Podcast focuses on art marketing strategies, tactics, and tips to ensure that you'll be able to bring in a steady stream of income.

Beyond the Studio: Hosts Amanda Adams and Nicole Mueller want to demystify the process of being an artist. In Beyond the Studio, they speak with artists about how they make ends meet, manage their time, and take on the “unique challenges of making a living, creatively.”

Art Curious: Anyone who thinks art history is boring has clearly never listened to Art Curious. Host Jennifer Dasal explores the wild and wacky world of art history in this podcast, which has been around since 2016. Every episode covers one of art history's strangest stories, like whether or not Caravaggio was murdered and whether or not the Mona Lisa is fake.

Myths and Legends: Stories are a vital part of our humanity and have shaped our world in profound ways. For proof of this, look no further than Myths and Legends, a podcast that shares how historic folklore influences our culture, even now. Each week you'll hear about Vikings, Robin Hood, and more.

The Allusionist: If you think language and lexicon are fascinating, then you'll want to check out The Allusionist. Host Helen Zaltzman explores the facets of English to reveal the profound impact that words and phrases play in our everyday lives. You'll have a newfound respect for linguistics.

This article has been edited and updated.

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READ: 20 of the Best Creative Podcasts Offering Great Advice and Endless Inspiration

Photo: Stock Photos from SUNDRY PHOTOGRAPHY/Shutterstock
This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase, My Modern Met may earn an affiliate commission. Please read our disclosure for more info.

Google already teaches us many things, like how to properly cut a pineapple. But beyond the everyday queries, the company is offering formal learning opportunities that can boost or even jump-start your career. It has recently announced the Google Career Certificates program that offers certifications in data analytics, project management, and user experience (UX) design. All courses are remote and flexible for working students and can be completed in about six months.

Aside from being convenient and practical, there's a revolutionary aspect to the certificates program. Google will view the short courses as equivalent to a traditional four-year degree in its own hiring process.

The company is questioning what it means to be prepared for the workforce, and what that preparation should entail. Job creation over the past decade has been concentrated in fields that demand a level of digital and IT literacy. Coursework through conventional higher learning may provide these skills, but Google wishes to create a different path. Kent Walker, Senior Vice President of Global Affairs, explains the rationale in a blog post. “College degrees are out of reach for many Americans, and you shouldn’t need a college diploma to have economic security.” In 2018, the first Google certificate was launched—the Google IT Certificate Program—and proved extremely popular.

Photo: Stock Photos from PK STUDIO/Shutterstock

There is a philanthropic component to the program, too. Google has committed to providing 100,000 scholarships as well as hundreds of apprenticeships to further build workers' skills. Certificates will also be available through partnerships at high schools and community colleges.

Google views the expansion of its certificate program as part of America's national economic recovery. While most graduates will not get a job at Google, the job-specific training sets workers on the path towards well-paying careers. A consortium of companies has joined with Google, interested in hiring from the promising forthcoming graduates.

Some see this as a positive development in higher education—a shift away from student debt and barriers to access in the traditional university system. While there remains value in a four-year degree, questioning the necessity of a bachelor's degree opens doors to new talent and new opportunities.

Check out Google's new certificate offerings and enroll in the popular Google IT Certificate through Coursera.

h/t: [Inc., IFL Science]

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READ: Google Introduces a New Career Certificates Program That Could Land You a Great Job