I’ve been thinking a lot lately about how quickly video is expanding online in terms of capabilities and implementation. I consult with a lot of small businesses, and when talk turns to online video, many of them are instantly skeptical. They’re not sure it’s a good path for their business, mostly because their experience with online video is typically limited to amateur viral clips and branded commercials from giant corporations.

I recently got an email that talked about Alphabird picking up PlaceVine for some undisclosed amount. But what I found more interesting in the release was this contest that PlaceVine is running. Essentially, they give you assets, ask you to submit a video based on certain specifications and if approved, you can start getting paid for your YouTube views on the video until the award pool is consumed.

The second half of the week in the online video world has been dominated by the outbreak of tornadoes Wednesday evening in the southeastern United States. The storms were huge, and the videos are incredible and frightening all at once.

I’m usually full of strong opinions about online video and social media marketing, but after watching the newest Air New Zealand video “Mile-High Madness with Richard Simmons! #RICHROLL,” I’m not sure if it’s the best thing I’ve ever seen or if I should go punch myself in the eyeballs. From either a creative perspective, or a marketing perspective, I can’t make up my mind so I’m going to throw my thoughts up into this little air sickness bag I like to call a post, seal the bag, hit publish and see what happens. The video starts out with a predictably amiable pair of flight attendants that want to run me through a few in-flight safety exercises before we take off

Thinkmodo, a viral marketing firm, creates online video content that makes viewers believe that the videos are original and authentic when they are in fact created for viral video marketing campaigns.