Digital media excels at observing the ordinary. But why is that? It is because digital media is so potent in its ability to convey subtle emotions and thoughts regarding a seemingly simple idea or concept. Digital media taps into so many avenues of communication, and through the use of the avenues, a near perfect retelling of a story or instance can be recreated for others to understand and comment on. Digital media also accesses us in the right ways and in the right settings so that a message or theme can be most effectively communicated. We can sit in the comfort of our own homes, removed from all distractions, or be in the middle of great crowd, and the message we receive through digital media can be completely different. This is because digital media is also participatory storytelling. The concepts and themes of the story is completely dependent on how the recipient interprets the message through their own current mindset. And while this is like almost all forms of communication, digital media has a habit of reaching us when we are most vulnerable—when we are most susceptible to learning new ideas and connecting with others.
An example of people who uses digital media to observe the ordinary is just about any video blogger. These people literally tell about their day, what they recently purchased, or what they’ve recently learn in the form of “video confession.” This method of communicating with others has become wildly popular because both the creator and the viewer can enjoy the simple emotions and feelings that are conveyed through the basic storytelling. The unique aspect of this kind of storytelling is that, unlike interpersonal communication, it can be shared with great multitudes of viewers who can experience the story first hand from the person who first expressed it. Also, unlike textual based storytelling, audio/visual storytelling is accompanied by many nuances and personal touches that better convey the desired themes and messages. Simply put, expressing even the most basic stories and ideas through digital media is extremely effectual in its ability to convey the desired messages to its audience.
I would agree with video blogging (and blogging in general) being good examples of observing the ordinary. They just talk about what is happening in their life at the moment. Everybody has a life, that's pretty ordinary.
ReplyDeleteHowever, I would disagree with how being at home eliminates all distractions. For me personally, I'm more distracted when I'm at home. There are multiple browsers opened on the internet, roommates talking, music playing, people coming over, etc. But, yes, depending on the context in which we receive the message, we will interpret it differently.