Rule #35

Always keep a good digital camera handy. You never know when you’ll need to stage an impromptu photo shoot.

This rule may be less critical today, thanks to smartphones with cameras that rival many mid-level DSLRs, but the core message still holds true: it’s not just about creating content—it’s about creating quality content.

Photography is an obvious example, but the same applies to other essential skills in marketing and design. You need to know how to shoot solid video, assess lighting, structure clear and compelling writing, ask insightful interview questions, refine copy for clarity, and craft strong calls to action.

Why? Because sometimes the people you rely on—photographers, videographers, writers—are on vacation, out sick, or swamped with other projects. And your deadline? It’s not moving. Having the skills to step in and get the job done ensures that the work doesn’t come to a standstill just because someone else isn’t available.