Digital Dish

Not long ago I spoke at the Writers Guild on a new-media panel, where we talked about how to launch various projects and how people can succeed in the multiplatform (Internet, media and entertainment) world.

Afterwards, nearly 30 people were waiting to meet with me to learn more about the various resources and whatnot for anyone launching Internet projects.

It just proves the Web’s not just an Internet business game anymore, but media and entertainment, too.

While most know where to get the latest news, and which are the main social networks, it can be hard to find other places to go to exercise your creative endeavors.

We hosted a shoot not long ago that showed at least one industry executive how freely (and cheaply) content can be created. Here are a few favorite things to use:

The Flip camera: You’ve more than likely seen this tiny digital video gadget in dozens of hands, from those of soccer moms to hipster types and even a few celebrities. But it also can be used to shoot your short Web series or other show. I’m not kidding. It may not produce the high quality you expect on regular television, but for the Web it can be great. We shot a series on it without sound or lighting that turned out just fine.

Braveheartwomen.com: There are a zillion blogs and social networking sites about fashion, gossip and other topics for women, but Braveheart is different. Influencer-stacked at its launch—Dr. Maya Angelou, Leeza Gibbons and Mariel Hemingway are among the site’s contributors/participants—the site is designed to bring women around the world together and give them a voice. You can blog, share, engage in community and all that good stuff. The power of empowerment!

iPhone: Yes, it’s cliché, but the iPhone is really great for taking pictures. Not only can you snap the shots of the things you’re into, but extend it to everywhere you engage online, like Twitter, your blog, etc. BlackBerry fans can get the same effect with the Curve (though iPhone’s photos are better). Imagine a great book or blog series of life from cell phone pictures. I’ve known some creators to work handhelds into larger picture stories.

Luxury settings: Any creator knows that it can be tough to work alone at home, especially when you’re seeking inspiration. Luxury hotels around the city are hot spots for co-working for this reason! I love Oceana in Santa Monica for its heart-shaped pool and quiet, oceanfront setting. Digital executives have flocked to the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel. I like the Westin off Market Street in San Francisco and London in New York for the same purpose.