At a party in Soho last week, New York-based video-sharing site Vimeo bumped up the Web video world into the realm of major sweepstakes by announcing a contest that, in a few months, will award $25,000 for the “best original video.”
That’s a good chunk of change, though as part of Barry Diller’s IAC (Diller previously headed Paramount Pictures and Fox Broadcasting), Vimeo has the money and knows the rationale of spending some of it to get ahead.
Since its 2004 launch, Vimeo has worked diligently to become the quality leader in online video, drawing a sophisticated and growing pro-oriented clientele. But will this be enough to separate them out from the rash of video posting sites vying for position?
For Vimeo, going the high road isn’t just a matter of presentation (no ads) and playback (best quality transcoding). More importantly, the company continues to spend the effort to build a supportive community of creatives. One step was obvious though necessary: there’s no YouTube-style rebadging of video –all uploaded content must be created by a Vimeo member.
While there will be one overall prize winner, there is a wide range of categories to compete in, including the familiar narrative, documentary and animation, but also remix, captured, and original series. Meanwhile, the 25 or so judges include producers, directors, musicians and photographers, with some well-recognized names among them including David Lynch, DJ Spooky, Lucy Walker, Morgan Spurlock and Vincent Laforet.
Even without the lure of prize money, Vimeo has gained attention and a good rep as the site not only encourages feedback but also creates a supportive vibe–dare I say community?–with its emphasis on positive, constructive comments (disparaging comments are sometimes removed).
There will be screenings at September’s IBC convention in Amsterdam (Vimeo sees itself as serving the world of videomakers), along with a festival in New York.
All submissions must be uploaded by July 31; there is a $20 entry fee ($5 for Vimeo Plus members).
I’ll be writing a follow-up article as the contest develops. Until then, more info here.
