The internet is a place full of rich media, and the capability for users to submit their own content. There are many sites out there that allow for users to put their photos, designs, films, etc. out there to be shared, distributed, and appreciated. With all the sites out there, how does one know what is the best place to host their media? What characteristics should they look for? What are the benefits of each? Well, each website offers something a little different, it really comes down to what you plan on doing with the media. This short list of media hosting sites will help you decide how to host your media.

Flickr

This site is dedicated to showcasing photography. What is nice about Flickr is that is has a nice clean interface that showcases the work of the artists’ rather than beating the viewer down with ads and distracting other visuals. Users also have the options to share all of their work at once with the Photostream, or create groups to display their work in specific collections, almost like a digital exhibit. From there you can share your photos on Facebook, blogs, or however you like. I have always liked sharing this on Facebook versus loading directly to Facebook so I can keep some rights over the work I create, and to also drive viewers to my more extensive work. There is also the ability to allow users to use your work on blogs if they give you credit, so you can build your name through the creative commons.

Picasa

Picasa is a great way to share photos as well, with some added perks for users. Whereas most other sites allow for a direct upload of photos, Picasa also gives the ability to edit photos and add effects before it’s posted. It can also accept Lightroom DNG files and RAW formats of different cameras for the hardcore shooters. This gives you a little more creative freedom to the user before everything is added. Picasa also makes it easy to share with your Google+ circles. You can also tag friends, so it integrates good photography with social sharing, a factor lacking in other social outlets.

Vimeo

This is one of the most popular video sharing sites on the internet for serious filmmakers and producers. What Vimeo offers over its competitors like Youtube is a clean design and media player that allows viewers to focus on the work, not on distracting ads and recommendations in the sidebar. The player also has a more professional look, so when you embed it on a blog or website, your viewers still get a nice clean look where they can appreciate your work. This is a plus since most websites have low space for videos, and you want to make sure your can show off your work the best way you can.

Wordpress

This may seem a little different than the other sites, but Wordpress is also a great place to host media, visual and written. What makes a Wordpress blog great is that is self hosts photos for ease of use, and also with the new plugin, the photos are ready for high resolution screens like Apple’s retina display. Wordpress shines though by allowing you to also add words and blog post to accompany your work. Instead of getting a small description of your work, you can blog about that work. Let viewers know how you got a shot, or maybe what inspired you. Either way you have the space to do it on Wordpress, and your blog posts are just as easy to share on your social networks.

So this short list is the optimal places that you should look into hosting media. They are great to use because of their ease to use, but mainly because you can let your work speak for itself. You don’t have to worry about distracting layouts getting in your way and you retain all power to share it on social networks. As you discover each one, and as you grow as a media producer, you’ll find your priorities and which outlet is best for your use.

Author Bio:
Jordan Mendys is a media producer and blogger based in North Carolina. He also writes for Digital Satellite Dish TV. He likes to help audiences find the best solution to their creative needs.