imagesPeriscope—what is it? What’s “doing a scope”? How are you “scoping”? Periscope was bought by the folks at Twitter so when you download the Periscope app you connect it to your Twitter account. Then when you go live a tweet will go out to your followers that you are periscoping.

Periscope’s motto is “Explore the world through someone else’s eyes.” Typically when you log onto Periscope you will find people scoping what they are doing and where they’re at. You may see people scoping rides at Disney, live fashion shows, people walking around town or visiting a winery. People scope a variety of things. Many people scope themselves.

My husband pointed out to me that when you log on the camera faces outwards because you are supposed to film what you are seeing—hence Periscope’s motto. But I find that more than half of scopers are filming themselves talking. Whether it’s giving advice, trying to sell a product or sharing their day with you. It’s quickly becoming “selfie-scope.” But it’s another social media tool, another way to engage and connect with people, and it’s LIVE. Yes LIVE! As in if I’m filming and there is a child screaming behind me you will see it, LIVE!

You are easily able to follow your Twitter followers on Periscope as it works hand in hand. You may also follow strangers as well. When you log onto Periscope you will first be able to see if any of your friends are currently scoping so you can watch them. Or you can click on the map and watch strangers scope. There is a title given to each scope so you usually have an idea what someone is filming.

Once you give yourself a scope title you then go live. People will begin tuning in. You will start to see their names appear at the bottom of the screen. Some people’s names you will recognize because you probably follow them on Twitter while others you will not. Hearts are given when the viewers like what you are doing or saying.

The goal for many is to get lots of hearts because the more hearts means the more value you are offering to your viewers. In order to give a heart you simply tap the screen and you can do so multiple times. Then there are the comments. Remember I said this was live. So you could be filming about getting your hair cut and someone could randomly say “show me your feet.” Which I’m noticing is a trend for some reason.

You do want to be fairly cautious when scoping as well as with your responses and you can always block viewers if need be. Viewers sometimes ask a question or just comment, which you’re able to see and respond to while still live. Many celebrities have already caught on to Periscope and are using it to connect with their fans.

I’m enjoying the ‘Bachelor in Paradise‘ cast on Periscope because they often scope during and after their episodes. Donnie Wahlberg and Jenny McCarthy use it really well. Brands use it to promote new products, launches,  and to answer questions from customers. The ‘Ellen Show’ is coming to New York to film a few episodes and they promoted a two-ticket giveaway via Periscope. It really is a pretty amazing app.

Share your scope name and tell us what’s your favorite part about Periscope? And don’t forget to follow me on Periscope @kdevito!

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