Church video contest
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It's a first for the Church. Members around the world are being invited to enter a Church video contest by creating a short video presentation under the theme "Make Your Own Mormon Message," based on the popular Mormon Messages seen on YouTube and at LDS.org. Submissions will be accepted from Oct. 18, 2010 through Jan. 31, 2011, via the Church's Mormon Messages YouTube account.
The purpose behind the video contest is to allow members an opportunity to share their talents and the gospel. In mid-August, Scott Olson, product manager of Member Engagement, was assigned to start the project. It evolved rapidly and miraculously. Brother Olson said, "Of all the projects I've worked on during the past 27 years of my employment at the Church, this one received more spiritual guidance than any other. I told my coworkers to be sure and write down some of the incredible experiences we were having almost every day."
Submissions from members might be used as new Mormon Messages or in other Church video projects.
Marianne Jennings, Web Media Associate Producer on the project said, "It's been so interesting to see this project come together in such a short amount of time. The feedback we've received has been amazing. Members are so appreciative of the Church letting them contribute in this way."
Entries submitted to the contest become the property of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, but the Church will grant a license to the creators to use the video.
Theme ideas for member videos should focus on Latter-day Saint life, history, beliefs, values or scripture. Some ideas include:
Life as a Mormon
Mormon music video
Homefront Ad
Humanitarian projects
A child's view of the gospel
Service activities
For the strength of youth
There are five categories for entries depending on age, geographic location and level of expertise. Each category will have four award winners. Three are determined by a panel of judges and one by visitors to the viewing site. The awards will be $500 each. The competition is open to members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints ages 13 and older. Those under the age of 18 as of Jan. 31, 2011, will need a release signed by a parent or guardian. Those who are not members of the Church may participate as part of a group, but entries must be submitted by a Church member. The video must be from 2 to 8 minutes in length, include a title at the beginning, and have been created on or after Aug. 1, 2010. Full contest details are available at videocontest.lds.org.
