Sunday, January 24, 2016

Investigating Genres

With so many writing genres, having a full understanding of the genres that you use is important. However, due to the large number of genres it is more manageable to tackle the process one genre at a time. I will begin with the video essay.


Comfreak. "109 Images" 07/09/2014 via pixabay. Public Domain License

1. Video essays simplify information while simultaneously adding interest. They bring important topics to light in visually engaging and creative ways. For those who find themselves losing interest in a long article, who find themselves too tired to focus on small print, or who simply find themselves craving more than black words on a white page, a video essay is a great alternative to reading.

2. Video essays are found almost exclusively online. YouTube and other similar video streaming sites are the primary deliverers of video essays. Because of this online focus, social media is also an important method of sharing video essays.  

3. Younger or tech-savvy audiences are the typical audiences for video essays. Video essays are mainly online which restricts access for people who do not have an understanding of how to use technology. 

4. The author is able to incorporate voice over, film, text, photos, music, and so much more into each essay. There are limitless possibilities. The main distinguishing feature of video essays is the visual focus. Video essays are not limited to words on a page. Art, photos, music, words, and ideas combine to create a fascinating delivery of an important issue.

5. Video essays are engaging visual experiences that present an argument. They are targeted at online viewers who may be interested in learning more about an issue without reading extensively. 

Reflection

After reading Diego Alcantara's post and Erin McCabe's post the accessibility of information stood out. While you need a significant understanding of the workings of technology to find many video essays, you just need an audio capable device to access podcasts. This is a good thing to keep in mind when trying to distribute information. If you are targeting a more tech-savvy and potentially younger audience. Video essays are the way to. However, if you are looking for a broader exposure to many different age groups and tech-capable groups, podcasts are the way to go. Video essays are best for a targeted audience while podcasts can reach a greater audience. 

2 comments:

  1. First off, I started reading your post because of that picture, which means you were completely successful in grabbing attention. Good job. However, your post will greatly benefit from the addition of the questions or at least descriptive titles to make the reader's experience smoother. Other than that, you provide a very concise and informative post about video essays!

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  2. Hi Hannah, I liked your video essay analysis. I especially liked the wording on your 'purpose' answer (#1). I think you definitely captured that there are significant pros to the video essay, like being able to be creative via methods that aren't available for someone who is communicating through print. Also, that we often turn to video essays because we are blatantly lazy (although you worded it much more eloquently). I was curious, however, about a part of your answer to number 2. Where else can video essays be found except for online? Regardless, I still enjoyed the post (and the picture)!

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