Author: eudigitac

How to video-record tacit knowledge and interview a master artisan

How to video-record tacit knowledge and interview a master artisan

Posted by | Apr 18, 2018 | , , , |

Video-recording is a wonderful observational tool and an increasingly popular method to document different kinds of knowledge. It is without equal when it comes to sharing manual skills and tacit knowledge – such as handicraft competencies. The goals and purposes of video-recording master artisans may vary, such as: doing fieldwork and collecting knowledge for one’s own handicraft purposes; capturing and passing on the skilled knowledge of expert craft practitioners; promoting and disseminating artisan’s creations and products; making an educational or research video to examine different cultures and societies; preserving the past and cultural heritage; etc. While different approaches advocate...

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How to make a promotional video

How to make a promotional video

Posted by | Apr 18, 2018 | , , |

In the time of social media, the need for a wide range of promotional videos is increasing. Depending on your goals, you do not always need to hire expensive marketing experts and pursue the highest production value. A lot can be achieved with inexpensive cameras and powerful mobile devices. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Below you’ll find a short overview of what aspects should be considered in the planning, making and marketing of an effective promotional video. It might seem intimidating to start your own promo video project, but keeping in mind the following tips, you will be able...

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How to conduct an interview with a master artisan

How to conduct an interview with a master artisan

Posted by | Apr 18, 2018 | , , |

Interviewing is an efficient way of learning from experts. When producing a handicraft related video, well-conducted structured conversation provides you a lot of background information that would be hard to gather otherwise: a unique personal perspective to the topic, broader background information about tradition and its local formations, and explanations and tips about why things are made certain ways or how to avoid mistakes. A successful interview requires close collaboration and dialogue between filmmakers and artisans. Your job is to put the narrator at ease, listen carefully and keep the conversation on the topic. These tips below could help...

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How to communicate with older informants

How to communicate with older informants

Posted by | Apr 18, 2018 | , , , |

When your goal is to document traditional handicraft and to do ethnographic fieldwork, you will most likely be working a lot with older people. If you have not had many such experiences, it might be confusing or even intimidating – especially as there are many cultural stereotypes concerning aging. It is helpful to be aware of some age-related issues and your own prejudices about the aging process, before starting to work with them. As an interviewer, you can do a lot to assure a smooth and comfortable trans-generational interaction. Below we share some thoughts and special features of working...

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