Happy 2012 and best wishes as we head into the Year of the Dragon. The start of a new year is the perfect time to reflect on what we've achieved and to give thanks to those who made it possible. In the non-profit world that means donors, volunteers and friends. What better way to do it than by saying thanks with a simple video? This month's issue focuses entirely on "giving thanks", letting supporters know how much you appreciate all that they do.
DISCOVER
• Digital Storytelling Storytelling is an art, so whether you want to create a simple thank you video or something more elaborate, consider these important storytelling elements. A Quick Guide • Taking a Great Photo A picture is worth a thousand words and with the proliferation of digital camera devices, there is ample opportunity to catch that great shot. An organizational video can be made not only using video footage but also by using digital photos. Discover the elements that make a great photo and how to use Windows Live Photo Gallery to upload and edit digital pictures. Top 10 Tips for Great Pictures Organizing, Editing and Sharing your Photos • Explore Windows Live Movie Maker It's very easy to pull together digital photos and video to make a compelling video. Discover Windows Movie Maker and see how easy it is to become a budding movie director. Getting Started with Movie Maker Interested in reading these articles in another language? Try Bing Translator: www.microsofttranslator.com
LEARN
• Using Windows Live Movie Maker Making a video to promote services, an event or to say thanks to supporters is not as difficult as you think. Surprisingly, an organizational video limited to digital photography without any live footage will still achieve a great effect. Movie Maker Tutorial • How Do I Edit a Photo? Editing a digital photograph can make the difference between an average photo and a fabulous one. Learn how to use Windows Live Photo Gallery to upload, edit and share your photos. Once the photos are edited, they are ready to be used in videos, newsletters, websites or any communication channel of your choice. Learn how to use Windows Live Photo Gallery • Malaysia's SOLS 24/7 says "Thanks" to supporters Watch Malaysian non-profit SOLS 24/7's "thank you" video, which they created incorporating digital photos and without live video footage for content. Giving Thanks • Operation Smile says "Thank You" US non-profit Operation Smile uses videos of their doctors, nurses, volunteers and beneficiaries to express their gratitude. See the Smiles
ATTEND
• Microsoft Connection Days Get together with non-profits in your community to learn about the latest and greatest technology for the sector by attending a Microsoft "Connection Day". Upcoming dates: Wednesday, 29 February 2012 - Christchurch, New Zealand Wednesday, 29 February 2012 - Colombo, Sri Lanka Monday, 5 March 2012 - Wellington, New Zealand Wednesday, 14 March 2012 - Manila, Philippines Tuesday, 20 March 2012 - Jakarta, Indonesia Tuesday, 3 April 2012 - Penang, Malaysia
Thursday, 5 April 2012 - Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Wednesday, 30 May 2012 - Hong Kong, China For more information, contact Microsoft's Corporate Citizenship team. Do you know about a technology-focused event in your area that would benefit your non-profit peers? Let us know. Email us at rhqcam@microsoft.com