Video-based Social Networks, at first, were my dystopian nightmare coming true. I must admit that, sometimes, I don’t see the future as this gleeful cyber-utopia. The way media came into our houses and showed us how unlikeable we were made me cringe. I don’t like any reality show because I strongly believe reality is just the sum of every point of view, not just a chosen few. Plus, the tackiness and the lack of finesse on which people (yes, even burnt-out celebrities are people) is displayed struck me as inhuman.
For a while, I thought these video networks would finally destroy the idea of a private life. A camera on every home, linked to a master source where the Head Honcho (whoever this mighty figure is right now) would have access to our most intimate thresholds.
Fortunately, some people saw this beyond the veil of pessimism I usually carry with me.
People just want to be seen. In a world where bounds between individuals blur, being able to share an unbiased, personal point of view is not only a privilege but a new kind of therapy. It no longer is a matter of having professional equipment. I mean… how much can a webcam and a PC microphone cost? Even most of the newest mobile phones have a camera utility in them. It no longer is a matter of budget but a matter of ideas.
Some people can be scary, I’ll grant you that (here’s a classic example… an oldie but goodie, if I may… ). But most of us, avid users of sites like YouTube, DailyMotion, Metacafe and such are just guys and girls who strongly believe our opinion is worth.
Bear in mind: our opinion is worth, but it’s not the ONLY opinion out there. Be ready to receive criticism (through polite or plain rude means).
I want to leave the copyright laws bit for a next issue, since this is one of the first posts that talks about video networks. All I can say is: intellectual property must be redefined so everybody wins. There is a thin line between tribute and plain plagiarism, and laws are erasing it with their feet.
YouTube killed the video star. Want to know how?
1. Think: what do YOU want to see? Some of us rely on these video networks as an alternative to television. We can choose its contents, we can program and watch in our time and we can produce, edit and broadcast with user-friendly tools. Since you’re no longer bound to the tyranny of TV, ask yourself: what do I want to see as soon as I click on the “play” button?
2. Watch others. Some people have managed to attain or mimic (or, at least, brilliantly satirize) the production techniques used by professionals. Watching others can be a great source of inspiration and resources to give your videos a more professional edge.
3. Be original AND legible. While representing the juxtaposition of Eastern Philosophy and post-modern fatalism through interpretative dance might be original (well… sort of…), generate contents that everyone can understand. Culture should be available for everyone.
4. Be respectful. Coarse language and disturbing imagery can be fun… for a while. After a few seconds, it gets boring and it can be offensive for everyone. There are other ways to be poignant and caustic. Have you ever read “1984”?
Thanks to social networks, viewers are also producers. We live in a giant, constant, self-editing movie. Smile every time you see a camera. If we can’t hide from them, then let’s put the show of our lives!
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