Where to Find Topical Lens Ideas

Susan52: NOT in Vogue

I just received the latest edition of one of my favorite magazines for Kindle. Happy day!

Scrolling down the table of contents page of the new magazine, I see at least a dozen ideas that would be perfect for a dozen new lenses. From decorating to personal style to family, food, and gardening, almost anyone could take this TOC, pick a hot topic and run with it, putting a personal point of view on a subject that resonates with them, making it their very own.

I'm not exactly into current trends. In fact, in most areas of life I lean heavily to the side of cultural illiteracy. So staying one step ahead of my audience can be difficult. But ahead of trends is a great place to be when you're trying to hit that perfect blend of unique, useful, up-to-date content for a successful, new Squidoo lens. That's why I love magazines. If I'm interested in the niche going in, I just might come up with a really good, trendy lens idea going out.

Where do you find topical trends to write about? Or is that a concern in your niche? Got any tips to share on the topic?

Vogue Magazine Cover May 1917, Public Domain

Watch Out! Cainiac Loose on Squidoo!

It's no secret to people who know me that I'm a bit of a political junkie with a definite lean to the right. Politics is a topic I really enjoy debating on my Squidoo lenses.  One of those politically-oriented lenses even made Lens of the Day back during the 2008 election cycle.

Lately my political lenses have focused on one candidate, one I don't just write about but one I truly support. Last night, my husband and I were honored to get to hear him speak in person! My pictures didn't turn out worth a hoot, but thankfully I was able to grab this video from one of our local news station websites:



Did you see me in the crowd? Nah, I didn't either. But I know I was there. No apologies.  Just call me a Cainiac.

If you want to learn more about my current favorite candidate and why I've jumped on the Cain Train, you'll find information in my Herman Cain lenses, here.

Is there a political candidate that you support?  Have you made a lens about him or her, or about your pet political issue?   Feel free to drop a lens link in a comment below.

Share a Tribute to Someone Special on Squidoo

Does a family member or close friend have a special occasion coming up? For a totally unique gift, one you and they can share with the world, make a tribute page on Squidoo!

Lensmaster SadieCope made this lens as a Christmas gift for her parents. The stories and memories that she shares are interesting to read and, I am positive, precious gifts to her lucky family.

Lensmaster tandemonimom made a special tribute lens for her grandmother's 100th birthday, definitely a noteworthy occasion. The outstanding pictures on this lens help tell Grannie's story, as well as that of the entire family tree. Making it even more special was the fact that this was tandemonimom's 100th lens on Squidoo!

One grandmother on Squidoo that most long-time lensmasters know well is lensmaster JaguarJulie's grandmother, Julia Nagy, who namesake Julie features on this special Superhero lens.

If you're not comfortable sharing your family stories with the world, consider starting with a four-legged family member. This very touching lens by lensmaster mukunda22 features some extra-special family pets.

If you're looking for a topic for your next lens, start by looking at home. Valentine's Day is coming up. Perhaps your beloved would appreciate a special tribute on Squidoo, guaranteed less fattening than any box of chocolates!