Some of social media's earliest adopters share what first drew them in. Many were already working in traditional media as journalists, writers, producers and filmmakers. But this was something new. It was openly expressive, the technologies were changing fast, and it was fun. Some were personally inspired ("I started podcasting for free music"). Others were inspired by their jobs. As one teacher explained, "If I'm expected to help kids prepare for life in general, I need to know what's going on. I need to prepare them for the world as it is, not as it was." Everyone in this film is still actively engaged in social media and the creation of original content. You'll recognize a name or two. But they are all worth seeking out for their continued originality, insight, and contributions. How far we've come.
About the series: The Culture of Content Creation is a video series about people who make their own digital content for sharing - such as blogs, podcasts, wiki entries, online product reviews or videos - to learn why they do it, what they find rewarding, and how they view their role in the world. Started in early 2008, this cultural media project from Elastic Lab continues today, reflecting changes in technology, knowledge, and the social fabric of the Internet.