Meet-Up Idea: Have An On-line Video Review At A Local Cafe

People have shared stories and knowledge with each other for thousands of years. They gathered their friends, family and peers around the campfire and town commons to tell great stories and perform theatrical plays. We, as video producers, are following in this tradition. And our new online video technologies do not change this basic path.

Great videos can be found in many places on the internet. Online video-sharing websites offer massive selections of video, albeit with various video qualities. If you're billing your event as "high quality," then you want to find online videos that are at least 480p resolution. Projected video with lower resolution may result in garbled, or soft video. You'll want to select an online video site you want to use to watch videos (YouTube, Vimeo, Miro, Motionbox, etc.) and conduct a search for your desired topics. Some video-sharing sites have playlists pre-made, as channels such as Bass Fishing or Arts & Crafts. But you'll likely want to make your own custom playlist, using the tools supplied by the video-sharing site. Making a playlist allows you to view all your favorite videos in one video player, but you may have to register with the site to use this feature. Now, you have the "content" for your community screening all in one place, and you won't have to go seeking around the 'net during the show!

Many cafes, restaurants and community centers offer different forms of entertainment throughout the week. Why not a video screening? Be sure to approach an event space that can accommodate your expected number of video viewers. A cafe may hold twenty to thirty people, but, if you're aiming for a hundred, you'll want to investigate renting a larger space, such as a hall or auditorium. Also, it's a good idea to consider the available space for your audio and video equipment. Is there room for a large projection? Will your PA system blast audio that might disturb the neighbors? Will uncovered windows be an issue? Make sure the house lights (lighting that controls the overhead room lights) aren't wired to another light switch that can be accidentally turned on during your show. Obtain the contact information for a few local venues and select the one best suited for video.

Your video screening can include a mix of friends, family and even random bystanders. For a public event, you'll want to include general information (time, location, seating) in your ad, along with specific info like the genre of videos being shown. Paper posters and 3x5 cards work well for tacking to bulletin boards and handing out. Also, by advertising your event at businesses you regularly patronize, along with online forums you frequent, you're assured a good mix of video enthusiasts. Post a new thread online at your favorite forums or blogs, explaining your event. A great online community for local information is Craigslist.org. There you can post your event next to others in your area. You may find a few more people wanting to show off their videos, too!