Substack "Live" video, using video at all, writing, not writing, it's all here, including the triumphant return of overthinking existentialism (and capitalism!).
I draw cartoons of sports, often as they’re happening (on Twitter) or the morning after here. All this video makes me think do I need to be doing animations? Now live video. Do I need to be filming myself drawing the cartoons. Who wants to watch that other than as an occasional behind the scenes moment? Maybe other cartoonists of which I’m followed by approximately none. I think it all distracts from why people are reading in the first place. Which for me is the simple sports cartoon. That has to be my focus, the rest is distraction and a move towards Substack becoming more social media like. That may make me harder to find on this platform. So be it. Eventually I’ll be seen as old school for not doing these things and subscribers will flock to me (aye right).
I’m reading Tim Goodman because I want to read Tim Goodman. That’s all. That’s enough.
So the thing about "live video" is it's one of those things to make your audience feel like you are even bigger friends. You're supposed to respond to their comments since they can type while watching and you're reading, so they feel like the two of you are having a profound one-on-one conversation. It's creepy
Live video makes me nervous on Instagram. They can see if you watch! Which … rude! Why is that their business? The only time I think live video works is if it’s very timely. Political pundits right after the debate, for example. I feel like that ship has sailed with scripted TV. Like say when Game of Thrones was on. Are we really watching the same episode at the same time in the streaming era? Not really. I consider within a week the definition of “keeping up”.
Regarding the Emmys NPR has the Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast. They record it in the wee hours after the award show is done, and the podcast gets delivered in the morning. Good enough! 🤷♀️
And when I read this, Lynn, I was thinking "oh thank god I don't have to record podcasts until the wee hours of the morning after an event." So I guess that's telling. And yeah, I think I made a pretty good case for not doing live video. But I do like that Substack has a one-button way to turn that into a regular post, thus making it not live. So in case I ever do something with my friend Dan, we could just post that as a video (or video podcast).
Or -- and hear me out on this -- I could just go watch something I've been wanting to. And then, you know, maybe a nap after?
Yes on the nap! Honestly I am a reader and I like to write comments. Video is more about creating content and performing and worrying about production. I prefer to leave that to Hollywood!
I wouldn't rule it out. Pepper already lunged at two dogs on his morning walk and I could see myself going to one of the hundreds of places near me that are currently filled with Portland day drinkers. The day is young!
Agreed that it’s hard to envision how live video would enhance your brand, and harder to fathom how you could successfully stay the course.
However, the counter argument would be rethinking your concept of engagement.
Rather than simply retrofitting the proven concepts you’re comfortable with, it’s worth considering reaching out to the demographic that natively understands the boundaries of successful video content, and also know how to infuse that content with useful poignant takes.
I’d say start with your kids, and ask them what holds their attention and why. And who are their heroes, or at least the sources they feel compelled to follow.
The best way to succeed in that medium is to hire someone looking for an opportunity that essentially packages your messaging by creating a video landscape where they supply the parameters, and logistically deal with the technical aspects, where your primary role is to inhabit the pre-determined (yet not static) ‘environment’ they’ve established for you to (seemingly) effortlessly drop in your take on whatever the subject is.
Quick, in and out moments that pierce the longer form written dialog/podcast user commitments, into useful timeless morsels that work individually and yet someone string together well.
Instead of trying to solve the problem by resisting the mechanical hurdles, align yourself with someone who innately understands the medium, and can transform your knowledge, and attitude, into readily consumable fare that lands a punch.
I honestly think this is all 100 percent spot on, Paul. I just don't see me nailing that level of commitment and effort. I mean, I wish I did have someone (affordable) to do that and maybe there could be some positive transformation, but I'm all not unhappy where things are at right now...
I thought it was funny that my partner said she didn't realize there was a video in this post. I think that might seal it.
I draw cartoons of sports, often as they’re happening (on Twitter) or the morning after here. All this video makes me think do I need to be doing animations? Now live video. Do I need to be filming myself drawing the cartoons. Who wants to watch that other than as an occasional behind the scenes moment? Maybe other cartoonists of which I’m followed by approximately none. I think it all distracts from why people are reading in the first place. Which for me is the simple sports cartoon. That has to be my focus, the rest is distraction and a move towards Substack becoming more social media like. That may make me harder to find on this platform. So be it. Eventually I’ll be seen as old school for not doing these things and subscribers will flock to me (aye right).
I’m reading Tim Goodman because I want to read Tim Goodman. That’s all. That’s enough.
So the thing about "live video" is it's one of those things to make your audience feel like you are even bigger friends. You're supposed to respond to their comments since they can type while watching and you're reading, so they feel like the two of you are having a profound one-on-one conversation. It's creepy
Forget "where's the video embedded." What's this about a podcast on iTunes and Spotify,?
Live video makes me nervous on Instagram. They can see if you watch! Which … rude! Why is that their business? The only time I think live video works is if it’s very timely. Political pundits right after the debate, for example. I feel like that ship has sailed with scripted TV. Like say when Game of Thrones was on. Are we really watching the same episode at the same time in the streaming era? Not really. I consider within a week the definition of “keeping up”.
Regarding the Emmys NPR has the Pop Culture Happy Hour podcast. They record it in the wee hours after the award show is done, and the podcast gets delivered in the morning. Good enough! 🤷♀️
And when I read this, Lynn, I was thinking "oh thank god I don't have to record podcasts until the wee hours of the morning after an event." So I guess that's telling. And yeah, I think I made a pretty good case for not doing live video. But I do like that Substack has a one-button way to turn that into a regular post, thus making it not live. So in case I ever do something with my friend Dan, we could just post that as a video (or video podcast).
Or -- and hear me out on this -- I could just go watch something I've been wanting to. And then, you know, maybe a nap after?
Yes on the nap! Honestly I am a reader and I like to write comments. Video is more about creating content and performing and worrying about production. I prefer to leave that to Hollywood!
OK, now we're all slathering to see video of Tim day drinking in the park while Pepper yells at all the other dogs, "Get off my lawn!"
THAT would be the best use of live video. Ever.
I wouldn't rule it out. Pepper already lunged at two dogs on his morning walk and I could see myself going to one of the hundreds of places near me that are currently filled with Portland day drinkers. The day is young!
What about sitting in the dog park with a 750 ml bottle of whatever looks appealing in a paper bag laughing drunkenly as Pepper does what Pepper do...
It's Portland. I don't think I'd need the paper bag.
BTW, of COURSE you need the paper bag, it's a style thing, damnit!
I'm sitting in Sacramento where every restaurant welcomes dogs...
...Toby approves.
I’d watch live video of pepper sleeping 😀
I would, too. Although in fairness, I think Bear, my daughter's dog, is a more entertaining sleeper. It would be more action oriented.
Lots of running dreams?
Yes and just a funny and weird dog who wakes up a lot.
Agreed that it’s hard to envision how live video would enhance your brand, and harder to fathom how you could successfully stay the course.
However, the counter argument would be rethinking your concept of engagement.
Rather than simply retrofitting the proven concepts you’re comfortable with, it’s worth considering reaching out to the demographic that natively understands the boundaries of successful video content, and also know how to infuse that content with useful poignant takes.
I’d say start with your kids, and ask them what holds their attention and why. And who are their heroes, or at least the sources they feel compelled to follow.
The best way to succeed in that medium is to hire someone looking for an opportunity that essentially packages your messaging by creating a video landscape where they supply the parameters, and logistically deal with the technical aspects, where your primary role is to inhabit the pre-determined (yet not static) ‘environment’ they’ve established for you to (seemingly) effortlessly drop in your take on whatever the subject is.
Quick, in and out moments that pierce the longer form written dialog/podcast user commitments, into useful timeless morsels that work individually and yet someone string together well.
Instead of trying to solve the problem by resisting the mechanical hurdles, align yourself with someone who innately understands the medium, and can transform your knowledge, and attitude, into readily consumable fare that lands a punch.
I honestly think this is all 100 percent spot on, Paul. I just don't see me nailing that level of commitment and effort. I mean, I wish I did have someone (affordable) to do that and maybe there could be some positive transformation, but I'm all not unhappy where things are at right now...