When it comes to social media, and media on the Internet in general, the first thing that comes to mind is YouTube. Youtube can used as hours upon hours of entertainment for one person, or a creative outlet for another. With industries like film, radio, and television, it can be pretty hard to make a name for yourself, however YouTube and the Internet is quickly changing that. Through these tools anyone can create their own online content that can be viewed by anyone around the world. The internet has made it not only easier to express yourself through your content, but allows you to interact with your audience as well. Something that is pretty hard for films and television to pull off.
One of the greatest aspects of youtube is its community. I have actually been apart of the youtube community since 2008 and have attended countless meet-ups and conventions surrounding online media. Not only do you get to meet the people you watch online, but you have the opportunity to collaborate and learn from in each other, finding out what works and what doesn’t.
Actually this past weekend was the 3rd annual PlayList Live convention held in Orlando. Similar to an even called Vidcon every summer in California, PlayList Live is a giant gathering of both online content creators to viewers and everything in between. Its event like these that help the community flourish and expand not just over the internet but in many people lives as well.
Youtube has been a huge part of my life for a couple years now and I wouldn’t change a thing. I’ve learned so much, made life long friends, and I’d be lying if I said I haven’t made a buck or two from it.