Several months ago I posted about Flickr Video. For the most part, I was in favor of neglecting it. My position hasn’t changed, really, but I feel compelled to give kudos on their implementation.
I’m relatively satisfied about the way Yahoo has introduced this (inevitable) feature. I personally like how they’re intertwined with the photos. I didn’t really expect that. One might not even know video is supported by Flickr until it’s time to upload. Even the URL for a video is of the form ”/photos/[user]/[id]”.
I think limiting the length of a video to a max of 90 seconds was a good move, too. I know that won’t last, but the initial 90 second limit may weed out those who were wanting to use Flickr as a YouTube clone.
Considering the impossible reality that Flickr would remain 100% based on photos, overall, I think video couldn’t have been introduced any better. That’s not to say I’ll ever upload a video, but it is what it is. And considering the millions and millions of Flickr users, all with different concerns about video, I think they’ve met both sides of the argument on common ground.
Comments
I think they did a great job with this and it won’t end up being another YouTube. Not only for all of the reasons you mentioned, but also because only paid members can use it. That should cut down on some of the worst ‘bored kids home movies’ stuff.
I’m not completely sure they will be extending the 90 second limit any time soon. They seem quite committed to the idea of “long photos.”
Either way, I now don’t have to send a separate link to get my mom to see video of the kids along with photos. That for me is worth the price of (my already paid) admission.
I didn’t know they were limiting video to pro members only – that’s definitely a plus, and probably the best filter for video pollution.