Potters of Periscope

February 6, 2016 by Brandon "Fuzzy" Schwartz 48 Comments

Join the movement!

Recently, a throng of potters around the world have (finally!) taken to Periscope to create a lively community of clay people sharing their studios, what they are working on, thoughts about clay and more!

What is Periscope?

A year ago, a periscope was something you might use on a submarine.

But now, “periscope” has a new meaning. It is an app for your smart gadgets that allows you to stream live video to your followers worldwide.

Find it here: Google Play, iOS App Store

Why Should Potters Care?

If you are a potter or ceramic artist, you can become a “Potter of Periscope.” Doesn’t that sound exciting? Really, it means you are part of a growing community of clay fanatics that want to share something with the world. Or see what other potters are sharing with the world. That’s right, a chance to “meet” and step into the studios of potters that you may never get to meet in real life!

I suppose if you want an official “Potters of Periscope” certificate you can send $49.95 to Michael Kline and he’ll review your application.

All kidding aside, there isn’t really a specific group to join or option to select. The Potters of Periscope are just a bunch of potters that are using Periscope and usually following each other. Perhaps as the Periscope app grows they may add groups or channels or other options that may be useful.

How Does Periscope Work?

It’s pretty simple. Download the app. Create an account with your Twitter account or phone number. Click the broadcast button to start sharing a live video feed. Or you can just follow people and watch their live broadcasts.

You can even send messages to the broadcaster in (nearly) real time so it’s possible to have a conversation. You can also view a replay of a broadcast for 24 hours after it is streamed. If you find something you like, share the broadcast with your periscope or twitter followers.

Find out more at the Periscope Help Page.

What Does This Mean for the Clay Community?

Who knows? Will this be just a passing fad? Will it be the next big thing? All I know for sure is that it’s a lot of fun! I’ve already “met” potters from all over the world. I streamed a few videos back in April 2015 and had a handful of visitors total. Recently I had a broadcast with 4 times that many on one live broadcast. So the community is definitely growing. Come join us!

broadcasts (and potters!) from around the world

Maybe those of us who can’t make it to NCECA will get to experience parts of NCECA? Maybe potters will be able to offer virtual workshops and lessons? Maybe we can show the world what kind of process we use to create a pot? Maybe we can organize some kind of round table and take turns introducing ourselves. Maybe we can form our own “24 hr. channel” about all things pottery! Maybe we can attend a gallery opening across the country. Maybe we’ll get to see the secrets that some of our favorite potters use to create some of our favorite pots! Maybe the possibilities are endless?

Periscope Tips?

You can use the hashtag #pottersofperiscope in your broadcast title and tweets. Not required, but it may help other potters find you.
Double Tap to switch between front and back cameras.
Swipe up from the bottom while viewing a broadcast to see who else is watching. Tap a name to see the profile and follow them.
Share broadcasts to Twitter, Facebook, and your Periscope followers.
Include a link (or links) in your profile. Website, Etsy Shop, etc.
Speaking of profiles… Share a little bit about who you are. People are more willing to follow someone that they know is a real person. Especially if they mention clay, pottery, ceramics, etc.
Take advantage of strong composition, adequate lighting, and a solid wifi signal if you can.
Capture your broadcasts. Check “Autosave Broadcast” to save the video to your device. No comments or hearts are saved. You can also take a look at Katch.me to automatically save your videos and comments! (Thanks to Joseph Travis @redfoxpottery for the heads up on that.)