Video podcasts -- also called videocasts, vidcasts and vodcasts -- combine the audio component of podcasting with visual media. This technology provides a forum for a wide variety of video podcasters, including filmmakers and artists, vloggers (video bloggers), and even those who just like sharing their videos.
Video podcasting is also helping build business, especially in the sales and marketing sectors. Through video podcasts, businesses both large and small can advertise their wares and services in a modern, cost-effective way. In the past, big businesses had better access to expensive studios where sophisticated advertisements were produced, but now even the smallest businesses can create high-quality media with just a camera, editing software and the Internet.
You watch a video podcast in much the same way as you would listen to a podcast.
To Watch a Video Podcast:
- Locate a video podcast a directory or search engine, like Videocasting Station, Vodstock, and Open Media Network.
- Download the video podcast to your portable media player or click the hyperlink.
- Just like you do with your favorite podcasts, you can use an RSS Feed to download the latest updates of the video podcast.
Creating a video podcast naturally requires more effort than creating a podcast because you're adding the element of visual media. Therefore, video podcasting also requires some extra components, including a video camera, editing software, video encoder and video host.
To Create a Video Podcast:
- Film your video.
- Upload your video to your computer.
- Using editing software, add special effects and graphics or correct any problems in the video.
- Determine whether your video will be streaming or downloadable, and use a video encoder to format it in a manageable file size for online viewing.
- Find a host for your video podcast. Make sure that the host can accommodate your video's bandwidth.
- If your host does not provide an RSS feed for your video podcast, create one yourself.
- Lastly, promote your video podcast just as you would a podcast.
The podcasts and video podcasts you find online range from the amateur to the streamlined and sophisticated. They are a testament to the accessibility of this technology for listeners and creators alike. Anyone can -- and clearly anyone will -- podcast.