Best Tips for Sharing Videos
Michelle Hainer

Best Tips for Sharing Videos
Video Sharing Tips

Shooting and posting videos online is super-simple with the advent of Flip cameras, smartphones that do it all, and cloud-based sites like Vimeo and YouTube urging us to broadcast ourselves.

But with creative capabilities like these comes a loss of privacy -- if you aren't careful with how you share your shoots.

Before you post your next mini-movie, consider these do's and don'ts.

Video Sharing Tip No. 1:

Do use video sharing as a way to connect with family.

One of the best things about video is that it allows you to share your favorite moments -- the first time you went skydiving, how you proposed, your baby's first steps -- with faraway family members. Don't let privacy concerns stop you from sharing your videos. Just make sure you limit access to your family members when that's your intention -- especially if you don't want your kids to be broadcast online.

Video Sharing Tip No. 2:

Do understand a site's privacy settings -- and use them.

YouTube allows you to post unlisted videos that are accessible only to people you give the link to. You can also post private videos. (Only you and up to 50 other invited users can view the video.) Facebook allows you to choose who sees the videos you add to your profile page. For specifics on each video site you're considering using, be sure to read the privacy policy before you click “Upload.”

Video Sharing Tip No. 3:

Don't post anything you wouldn't want your employer to see.

Remember, once you post something online, it will most likely stay there forever. What was funny at 22 -- your ability to do endless keg stands, for example -- probably won't be when you're 35 and your current or potential employer comes across it.

Video Sharing Tip No. 4:

Don't accidentally reveal personal information.

Make sure that when you shoot video of your home, kids or outings, you don't inadvertently reveal information that can help strangers track you down. Always review videos before posting them to make sure personally identifiable information that can put your family or privacy at risk (e.g., your address or kid's school name on clothing) has stayed off film.