Last Friday, the media committee held a Corps Day at SPNN. We split into groups, created four different videos, and then learned how to upload them using blip.tv. If you get a chance, you can check them out on the new media committee blog. I'm also reposting a part of the tutorial I wrote up, entitled "Why online video?"

All right, class. Today we’re going to talk about posting the videos we’ve created onto the internet.

But Kevin, why would we want to do that?

Because all the cool kids are doing it. It’s actually a question I don’t think about very often. As someone who works in video, the internet seems like a natural extension, an easy way to get more people to view what I’ve made. Video is a medium and the internet is a distribution mechanism. And apart from making your organization appear “hip,” internet video can be a really effective way to convey information.

But Kevin, what kind of information can be conveyed?

Well, here are a few examples of how some people are using internet video.

Vlogs: We’ve all heard about vlogs, or video blogs. The show with zefrank is a popular one. The Set It Up blog is a big hit overseas.

To promote an idea / spread an agenda: There have been a number of recent news stories about political campaigns utilizing online video. The Hillary Clinton / Apple ad mash up has been getting a lot of press of late (I just watched it for the first time as I was writing this post). One example that I think is particularly good in terms of conveying information in video form in order to promote an idea is Big Brother State, which deals with issues of privacy and surveillance.

Instructional Videos: This is an area that may very well be applicable to the work that you do at your site. Video can be used as a teaching tool. The other day, I had to wear a tie. I learned how to tie a tie when I was in Cub Scouts, but it was information that my brain seems unable to retain. I never remember how to tie them. So I did a quick search, and found this video. Problem solved. About once a month, SPNN posts a “tech tip” video online. This month’s tip is on using a light meter.

Outreach Tool: Online video can be used as an outreach tool for your organization or its programs. DoGooder.tv is a great example of this, as it allows people to watch videos created by non-profit organizations. “Once site visitors see the compelling stories of nonprofits, DoGooderTV gives them a direct way to donate to the organization, join, volunteer or simply find out more information.” Here’s one example: North Texas Food Bank. TechSoup has a great write up on promoting your non profit organization through video using free online tools.

And much more! Have you used online video in the past, either in your personal life or at your work site? Tell us about it in the comments!

This image is a photo of my Dad being displayed on the wall of the Musée de l'Elysée in Lausanne, Switzerland. I took the photo this past December and subsequently submitted it to the We Are All Photographers Now! project. The installation is meant to explore the digital revolution and the blurring line between professional and amateur photographer. People from around the world are encouraged to submit their photography for display. The exhibit lasts until April 20th, so if you're interested in participating there's still time to submit. Oh, and my dad doesn't like the picture of him that I sent in, so I'm posting one that he does like to make up for it. Here he is in Copenhagen standing by his MG.