Creative Jewelers Launches Innovative Video Contest
FLORENCE, February 7, 2011 – According to a U.S. Commerce Department 2010 report, Exploring the Digital Nation, 77 percent of American households are connected to the Internet, with nearly three-quarters of those between the ages of 16 and 44.
Similar data from comScore, a marketing research firm, showed that 75 percent of that U.S. Internet audience viewed videos online, either at home or on a cell phone.
“Those are important statistics,” said Billy Hammock, owner of Creative Jewelers. “It shows us that today’s consumer is being informed, educated and entertained through video as much as, if not more than, any other digital medium.”
Experts assert that the success of digital video is due to relatively short formats (an average of three minutes), unfettered creativity of the producers and a general lack of official oversight or censure.
“It’s still very much the ‘Wild West’ in cyberspace,” said Hammock. “That’s what I think is so appealing to the audience. They decide what they want to watch. And they’re viewing videos that are interesting and entertaining, whether they are independent shorts or flashy productions from big name brands.”
To better take advantage of this trend, Creative Jewelers has announced an open call for video shorts, with the opportunity to win $2,500 toward the future purchase of an engagement ring. A $200 store credit will be awarded to all other approved submissions.
The theme of the video short contest is “Experience the Fear!” – a lighthearted look at the trials that a man can go through once he has decided to propose.
“ The process can be overwhelming,” said Hammock. “Just deciding to propose in the first place is a huge step. But then comes the planning for the big moment and, of course, the ring.”
Hammock pointed out that finding the right engagement ring can be a particular challenge. “Is it a style she likes? Will her friends like it?” he offered. “Is it the right size, the right cut, the right setting?” he added.
Hammock explained that in his experience, the situation is different for everyone. And that’s the reason for the contest. Creative Jewelers is hoping to see how budding filmmakers choose to examine the process in these 2-8 minute submissions.
“We’re leaving most of the details up to the filmmakers,” he said. “The look and feel of their work is entirely up to them. We’re looking for fun, hip and creative work – played straight or quirky – at all levels of production quality,” added Hammock.
The deadline for submissions is April 15, 2011. Winning selections will be posted to all of the store’s online media, including YouTube, Facebook and their website, and will be given further exposure through the company’s strategic partners.
Creative Jewelers is expecting the contest to be an interesting opportunity for all walks of life in northwest Alabama. “We’ve already received several inquiries from UNA students and local individuals,” said Hammock. “This is going to be a fun project!”
