Monday 6 October 2014

You too can be on YouTube


YouTube is another forum for doll fans to express their enthusiasm. The video aspect of this website provides a richer experience for all involved. Those who watch the videos get to see the faces and hear the voices of the people who post their doll review videos. Some doll reviewers receive fan mail and gifts from channel subscribers. Perhaps most importantly, those viewing at home are able to experience the dolls in a more real sense than if they were to see just pictures.

There are a few things that I have learned from my time on YouTube. First, My Little Pony is very popular. There is even a term to describe adult men who love the show: Bronies. BronyCon is an annual convention for My Little Pony enthusiasts. Despite the name, it is open to fans of any age and gender.

Another thing I have learned from YouTube is that people love opening up blind bags. Blind bags are toys packaged in such a way that the identity of the exact item inside is unknown. It seems collectors like the surprise element of finding out which toy they are getting and whether it is a new addition to their collection or a duplicate.

Not only do connections develop between viewers and reviewers but also between members of the YouTube community. Members watch each other’s videos and post comments. In some cases they meet in person. In an earlier post, I mentioned witnessing some YouTubers meeting up at BronyCon 2014.

Members of the YouTube doll community come in all shapes and sizes. The following are a few YouTube channels that I like to visit regularly:

Jason Robert Keef  https://www.youtube.com/user/jasonrobertkeef/videos
Jason was the first doll guy I stumbled across in YouTube land. I remember watching a video of him doing a late night toy hunt. He filmed himself in his car and also in the toy aisles of Toys R Us, Walmart, and Target. I thought to myself, “people film themselves shopping and other people watch this?” Little did I know that this was just the beginning for me.

Mike N’ Elio  https://www.youtube.com/user/elmoscookie83/videos
This duo provides video reviews of dolls. The dolls featured are primarily those in the Integrity Toys line. Known for being outspoken, they will not hold back on poinmating out flaws and voicing dissatisfaction or complaints. The video footage shows close-ups of the dolls. Since Integrity Toys are known as high end with prices to match, this is beneficial for those in the market for these types of dolls.


dollastic https://www.youtube.com/user/dollastic/videos 
Upbeat and positive, this toy reviewer is refreshing because of her budget-conscious shopping style. We see her visit local thrift stores as well as the big name stores such as Toys R Us and Walmart in her toy hunts.

Chad Alan is known for his motto “We are B.O.L.D.” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YltNUH3uMsc B.O.L.D. stands for Boys Openly Liking Dolls. He posts craft videos in addition to toy reviews.

A mother and daughter team known for being goofy and humorous. You can really tell that they are family.

“My Froggy Stuff” is known for making videos of amazing craft ideas that viewers can then try on their own at home. She also reviews dolls.

Many YouTube channels, including the ones mentionned above, are of professional quality. Introductory graphics, music, and clear audio and video are common elements of these "shows" of high production value. In addition, entertaining and informed hosts keep viewers coming back for more.

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