A recently launched live video stream app has taken over my phone – and I LOVE it! It’s called Periscope and if you haven’t heard of it yet believe me it is just a matter of time before you start asking,

What is Periscope?

Periscope is a live stream video app available on both IOS and Andriod systems – aka. iphones and driods – that is taking over data plans everywhere! Sure there are a few teens are using it, but so is just about every age demographic who has a cell phone with a video camera. What makes periscope any different than the 20 other apps that allow video streams? For me it is the “behind the scenes” feel and live interaction of Periscope that have me hooked – oh and those lovely little hearts you can send as feedback just by tapping on your screen during live play and replay.

Download the Periscope App and connect with me @KraylFunch.

I have been testing out a handful of short videos around the house and at a few events the past week or so as well as watching tons of other accounts to see what works and what is a fail, and I would like to report that I have seen a true pattern, but in reality it seems everyone is still testing and trying to see what in fact works. In all fairness the app was only launched in late March 2015 to the iTunes store and only released to android this week, so it makes sense there will be a learning period.

Let’s start with a few of the basics of what is Periscope?

HOW DO I GET PERISCOPE ::

The Periscope app is available to download through the periscope.tv website or your app store on your phone {currently there are no direct weblinks to an account}. Because the geniuses over at Twitter purchased the periscope app even before it was officially launched, for the reported small sum of $100 million cash plus stocks, you will be required to have a twitter account to play. However, as I have mentioned in various posts I love twitter so this is just a bonus and makes it super easy for all my twitter friends to connect and know when I am “scoping”.

WHAT DOES PERISCOPE LOOK LIKE ::

The screen shot of your account page will look similar to mine – showing your image, a short description, how many people you are following and how many people are following you. Also on the main screen are icons to watch videos, or live streams, of others you are following, begin your own broadcast and search for new friends.

 

WHY DO I LOVE PERISCOPE ::

It is totally addictive to see #1 what others are watching and #2 what others are willing to put out there. I know it seems crazy but you can get caught up watching the girls at the HGTV  headquarters making green smoothies from the herb garden just as easily as you can watching Andy Cohen live stream from the couch of his beach house in the Hampton’s. Believe me, both have happened!

But I also love it because it allows me to share behind-the-scenes videos of my life that does not require a fully staged photo-shoot set up like creating a video for my YouTube channel might. It’s a quick look into my daily life – whether it is an event I am setting up for, making dinner at home or checking in on a client project – it is good unfiltered, unscripted reality.

Please note :: Unlike YouTube videos that live on into eternity, all Periscope videos disappear after 24 hours. So don’t delay if there is a video you are interested in, jump in.

WHAT ARE THOSE HEARTS ABOUT ON PERISCOPE ::

When you join a live feed you will see the count of total viewers on the right side and hopefully above it a stream of colored hearts. Click on the screen to add your own heart love. Keep clicking! And click some more! Give that channel lots of hearts – there is no penalty for you and only a benefit to the account holder. I believe I read somewhere you can give up to 400 per video, so don’t be stingy.

GETTING INVOLVED ON PERISCOPE ::

The live chat feature on Periscope is perfect for interaction with the person streaming but also with the other viewers, it is a way to connect on the content and find those who share your interests. Don’t be shy. Say hello and mention your state or city to connect – or simply watch the action.

A little known feature is the “share with your followers” button which is can be found by clicking on the icon showing other viewers then scrolling down to the share icon on the left. Click to open it and you will be able to choose to share with everyone or only certain people. It’s a great tool for both the account you are watching and your followers – I know I am always looking for new accounts to interact with and love a recommendation.

WHAT IS PERISCOPE – A SUMMARY ::

While we never know which social media platform is here to stay or will be old news by next week, after watching Periscope evolve for only a short time it seems to be embraced by news anchors, talk show hosts, chefs, shop owners and anyone looking to share their story with the world.

So grab the app and let’s connect! You can search me as Krayl Funch on Periscope. See you behind the scenes!

I have a few ideas about how I plan to use it but would love to hear your ideas too! How will you interact with periscope, let me know in the comments below!

Download the Periscope App and connect with me @KraylFunch.

 * * * * * * *

And, if you are looking for even more ways to celebrate everyday check out An Appealing Plan the book.

Call it a trend or a return to the past, but I believe we are bringing back entertaining at home, lingering over a table after a lovingly prepared meal with friends. It has been a way of life and passion of mine my entire adult life, and I am thrilled to be able to invite you on this journey with me through a year of celebrating every day. Filled with recipes, tablescapes, floral inspiration and seasonal entertaining ideas An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations, is a dream come true for me a true honor to be able to share it with you. To learn more about An Appealing Plan :: A Year of Everyday Celebrations here. And of course, share how you are celebrating everyday.