Chapter 5

Distribution, or Getting it Out There!

Level 1

There are a variety of options available if you want people to see your work. We will focus on specific options to show your video and how to get your message on the internet.

5.1 How Can I make My Video Files Available On The Internet?

Understand how people play videos - The viewer will need to have the correct software to be able to play the video. The two main ways of broadcasting it on the net are streaming and progressive downloading (see glossary).

5.2 What Type Of Internet Site Should I Put My Video On?

There are many different types of site you could use to put your files and videos on.

Community websites - You can use one of the many provisions for groups and individuals.
Personal website and Blogs - Many companies provide space on the web for you to have a website, it’s easy and free.
OurVideo - If you are part of the OurVideo project, we have provided a customisable website for you.

5.3 What Do I Have To Do To Get My Video Files On The Internet?

People will not wait for your video file if you do not compress it to download quickly.

Compress your video - Choose between formats and file sizes to make your video easily available to your audience.
Choose between The "Dial Up" connection and "Broadband" connection - Basically dial up equals low quality, but will have a bigger audience. Broadband equals high quality, small audience. The ideal is to make both versions available.

5.4 How Do I Get My Video Ready For The Web Using Windows Movie Maker?

This section will cover how to compress your video using Windows Movie Maker (WMM).

The Save movie wizard - This help box appears asking you to give the movie a name.
Settings - The 56k connection speed is easier to see but this creates a file with a low quality image.
Finishing - Click Next and WMM will create your Internet movie. You just have to wait!

5.5 How Do I Get My Video Ready For The Web Using iMovie?

Sharing for the web - Choose File>Share. The iMovie: Share or Export dialog box appears.
Choosing the best format - Along the top of the box are all the different ways you can create a final version of your movie.
Settings - Choose the web setting, this creates a low quality file which is easy for most people to see.
Finish - Click Share/Export if you chose a preset format. Give your movie an unforgettable filename!

5.6 How Do I Put My Video On The "Our Video" site?

This section will tell you what to do to put your video on the site and update it.

Log on - You should have been given a password and user name by the Our Video representative.
Type in the general and the topic information for your clip - This helps people to know if they want to watch it or not!
Upload your video with an image - You will need to have a digital photo 320 by 240 pixels in size!
Update your work - After logging on go to the Feature Edit/Change existing option and make your alterations.

5.7 What Other Ways Can I Get My Material Seen?

Besides the Internet, most TV stations have to allow some public access to their channels.

Mainstream - The BBC’s Video Nation series are available on their website and the best are shown on BBC2.
Community Channel - The Community Channel is shown mainly on Sky TV.
Standards - For TV you need high quality video, so it is important to have the best computer you can.
Marketing - Don’t forget to let people know when your video can be seen! Tell people how they can see it. Plan your "launch" at a time when you can get the most attention from the people who count.