The digital switch over commences this year and will phase out the old terrestrial transmissions that beamed the previous history of television we have all come to love and hate into our homes. The switch over denotes a move to a technology which could in theory carry many more channels and much more content. With this in mind S.O. takes a look at independent film makers producing films, documentaries and diaries outside of the mainstream broadcast industry.

 

For decades we were treated to a few channels created, decided and delivered by media companies, committees and institutions like the BBC. Digital broadcasting, the web and mobile phone advances mean a new age of “independent content” is gaining more viewers. Glasgow is home to a diverse community of independent program makers professional and aspiring, producing films, organising screenings and taking media talent to communities.

 

Driven by a pure need to have a story told, awareness raised or the community engaged these determined souls offer the possibility of new content and media savvy in communities. Digital offers a wider audience through digital distribution on the web, podcasts and digital channels, which only seem interested in creating shopping and lifestyle programs. The role of independent media to produce local as well as national - international films for increased viewer choice seems obvious.

 

Until a strategy to encourage new content, documentaries, diaries, lobby shorts, events etc through the usual channels, the independent community takes on every aspect of media production and distribution. Using their web sites as on-line mini channels. Is this the development ground for a truly democratic digital broadcast age?

 

S.O meets the Camcorder Guerillas and Diversity Films to get an idea of what is happening in Glasgow. The efforts of these groups are creative, challenging and constructive, thanks to the effort of these “Glasweegems” we can say we have independent voices in the city, something democracy takes pride in. J.G 

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