Collaboration in Film//The New Approach

 Collaboration.No matter how the concept makes you feel,we all do it at various points in our careers. But rather than having a favor shoved into our equipment,is it possible for collaboration to be not only beneficial but gratifying as well?Historically the sound department has always been last to jump on the bandwagon of the ever changing face of the entertainment industry(what else can you expect,if even major equipment changes happen every 10 years for us,unlike cameras that become absolute every six months). Perhaps now,when online collaboration communities are emerging all over the internet,is the time to become much more proactive in finding the projects that "YOU",my dear reader,want. It's time to feel good about helping out!

Here is a list of websites that make it possible to shop around for interesting projects,while also solidifying your online/offline presence in the industry. Some of the sites offer rewards and or/compensation.

• Boolaka-this site allows both talent and crew to create together. It is a bit lacking in intuition,with hidden options scattered through out. The profile was quite easy to create. Bonus points for being able to link your RSS feeds to the profile. Once you register,you may network with others on the site,see what projects are in need of help,watch and discuss finished products and so forth.It is implied that the work you do is not necessarily volunteered,thus it is project dependent.
• wreckAmovie-the entire concept of collaboration is based on Karma(not kidding,you actually get Karma points). What's fun about this site is that the talent there is very active, with some great people involved from every country imaginable on this planet. Working with talented people+getting actual Karma points?I am in!
• FiveSprockets-"your virtual production studio". Collaboration from story development to marketing and distribution. The site also features a job board,and tools to promote yourself and your project.The funny part is that there is a note that you have to be at least 13 years old to use the service,which seems like a silly attempt to keep the site more serious(somehow I don't see eight year-olds attempting to write a treatment).The design somewhat resembles an office outlook page once you get to your profile.
• TalentHouse-"is a platform providing opportunities to the world’s creative community – a place to participate in unique projects with artists and brands, collaborate, gain recognition and compensation." The site is not specific to films alone,but rather a collaboration space for all sort of art,design and music projects. Once you pick a project and submit your initial work on it,if chosen,you will continue on to collaborate with the creator of the idea and possibly get a reward.
• Unusuals-a very quirky website meant more for showcasing your work rather than collaboration. Each posted project can be linked to the profiles of those who worked on it. Thus you are able to create networks between crew-members.The features help you not only maintain established professional relationships but also do some serious networking for future projects. One can also design an online business card and use the profile page as a personal URL.To be fairly honest it is hard to believe that a site this cute can have a serious purpose,but they are definitely trying hard to prove otherwise.