The Video Activist Handbook

'The global protest movement is growing because activists are learning to tell their own stories, to capture their triumphs on tape, and share them with others around the world. This book is about media that doesn't just cover activism, it is activism, a crucial part of the process of reclaiming public space and communities.' Naomi Klein, author No Logo 'Crucially, Harding covers not just the 'hows' and 'whats' of vid-activism, but also the vital 'why' question. Why do it? Because this is about democracy and empowerment. Vid-activism is about circumventing the hopeless conventionality, commercialism and conservatism of the mainstream media. It is about demonstrating that power truly lies with people, if they are aware, alert and active ... The peaceful, democratic and imaginative use of information technology, like camcorders and computers, strengthens the rebel in all of us-and gives us the chance to stay one step ahead of those we oppose. Like a far more widely advertised product, The Video Activist Handbook does exactly what it says on the label. Buy it. Read it. Act on it. Your world will never be the same again.' Charles Secrett, Director, Friends of the Earth 'With his book The Video Activist Handbook, and his organisation Undercurrents, Thomas Harding has become the guru of video-subversion. In all corners of the globe, his method gives back to activists, forgotten by mainstream television, the opportunity to become visible again." "Harding's philosophy: to give media coverage to social and ecological struggles, by reclaiming the tools of technology.' Pierre Siankowski - Les Inrockuptibles 'One broadcast journalist who turned his back on the shallow and uninformed reporting of the mainstream media was Thomas Harding...This handbook offers valuable lessons in the strategic use of the technology, which, if heeded, could slice through the growing sea of lenses dominating demonstrations and give a fresh take on how video can be used to protect our ailing planet.' The Ecologist 'The Video Activist Handbook is not just an instructive read for wannabe film-makers with a conscience; it is enough to inspire you to miss the odd lecture or three, pack a digital camcorder in your rucksack and head off to the nearest demo.' The New Statesman 'All the practical information you need to get started as a video activist. The strength of this book is in the way it demystifies the whole process of making video. Every aspect of the process is covered, from choosing your equipment and learning to use it, through producing and editing the video, to organising screenings.' Bookmarks review of books 'Practical advice on using video in campaigning, from strategy, equipment and filming, to editing and training. Clearly written and illustrated, with case studies.' London Cyclist

Thomas Harding is the co-founder of Undercurrents, Britain's first video news service. He is a leading voice in international video activism and has written for the Independent, Guardian, New Statesman and New Internationalist. Thomas Harding is a leading voice in international video activism and has worked with fellow activists and taught courses on the potential of the new electronic media in the hands of activists, protesters and concerned citizens worldwide.

Acknowledgements Glossary Preface 1. What is video activism? A brief history of video activism - The camcorder revolution 2. Strategy of video activism Finding a purpose - Types of video activist strategy - Differences between video activist and video-maker approaches - Problems with the video activist approach 3. Equipment Where do I find a camcorder? - The basic kit - Choosing a camcorder - Sound equipment - Advanced equipment - Looking after your equipment - Powering up in silly places 4. Getting started - A basic introduction to using a camcorder The Psychology of videoing in public - Getting good images- Getting good sound - Teach yourself to video in five easy steps - Your first big day of videoing - Getting better 5. Witness video: Legal work Different types of witness video - Working with the legal system - Appearing in court - Tips for shooting witness video - Issues of security - Videoing covertly - Counter camcorder 6. TV Work 1: Supplying footage to News Why bother supplying footage to TV news? - What is TV news looking for? - Issues faced when supplying to TV news - Tips on supplying footage to TV news 7. TV Work 2: Going beyond news footage Different ways of supplying footage to TV- Producing a Video News Release (VNR) - Archive sales to TV- Documentary making: becoming a TV professional 8. Making a campaign video 1: Production Different types of campaign video (educational, empowerment, fundraising)- The process- Preparation and research- Shooting 9. Making a campaign video 2: Editing Political editing- The editing process - Equipment - Tips 10. Distribution 1: Screenings Different types of screenings - Tips - Screening equipment 11. Distribution 2: Other outlets Community terrestrial broadcast - Cable - Video magazines - CD Rom - World Wide Web 11. Training Different types of video activist training - Issues and problems - Tips - Example of workshop schedule Resources - Recommended reading - Video activist organisations - TV contacts Index