Ten years ago, when I was traveling with my uni friend Aneen, I saw her taking photos on every corner and then posting them on her BlackBerry device. I was still a smartphone-less person at that time, so I took photos with my camera, which I would download later to hard drive and then posted the photos through PC/laptop when I have arrived back in the office.
Now that I'm a smartphone owner, I still retain the habit of #latepost on social media. For many people, I am considered a dinosaur that refused to keep up with the trend. But after trying on several social media, here are the benefits of #latepost that I found:
1. It's a matter of security. There have been stories of houses being burglarized when people post their holiday photos real-time. Enough said.
2. Rather than updating the feed/wall/status every minute along the trip, I can focus on the five senses. Of course I will take photos, but I will not be busy picking which photo to post, filtering the selected photo and drafting the caption. I will just take photos, and enjoy the moment, the sight, the smell, the sound, the taste and the touch.
3. I can escape from the 'Hey, can you buy me some souvenir while you're there?' question. LOL, this is such a typical question of Indonesians (and most Southeast Asian nations too, I heard). It's not that I don't want to buy souvenir, I just don't have the strength and willpower to lug a heavy suitcase filled with souvenirs.
4. With the gap between the trip and the post, I have more time for the thought process to pick which photo/story to post and which to keep to myself. I think it is better to keep some things about yourself as a mystery. Many people often forget that the digital files can be tracked down by future employers/spouses/in-laws. Digital world is now as dangerous as the real life. Be wise in putting ourselves out there.
5. In relation to number #4 above, I have felt that writing the caption/status on social media is very tricky. Written words have stronger punch than verbal sayings. Sometimes people will misinterpret the words as a show off our accomplishment, when we only meant to share information. With #latepost, I have the time to calm the emotion and spend more time to think about the proper wordings to use. Nevertheless, the caption is still a tricky thing to do.
6. Being the introvert that I am, the #latepost setting really helps when I want to explore the area on my own. I can see things that I like about a shop/anything really in my neighborhood, take a picture and share it later on WhatsApp status. And I don't need to worry about anyone suddenly sliding into my DM and saying:"Hey, I know this place. I'm in the area, let's meet." I am sorry if this sounds strange for extroverts, but this is just how I roll.
7. The #latepost will bring back the good memories about the trip amidst the hectic work schedule. It's like extending your holiday, a kind of escapism or a trip down memory lane, whichever the reason is a #latepost can always put smiles back into my face.
Do you feel any benefit from #latepost setting?
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