I prefer following creators because of my low SP. I tried this and not very long, my upvoting power is exhausted. It is also more convenient like that because I can follow people that I support and support me. Well, I still follow creators even if they don't support me, because their contents are great and I learn from them.
Great to know that. I think they should at least support you sometimes. I usually check all those who are upvoting me and look at their accounts, no matter how big or small they are. In case they create quality content, I support them a well. But, I think comments bring more attention than upvotes. That's why when I understand that someone watched my video and commented it, I like to check his profile as well. I'm now using a bit of automation, but not all. By, the way you can also set the threshold, for example if you make it 95%, the account will not upvote if you have less voting power. That will save your power.