CNN Does It Again!

It started election night.  I can remember commenting on CNN’s use of technology to beam interviews from Chicago, including Will I Am, into the studio.  In essence reporters were talking to a hologram as multiple cameras and green screen technology created a unique TV experience.  It was like Star Wars – innovative and cool, but most importantly I remember it created buzz as observers marveled at the result.  Within a 10 minute period of time my Star Wars comment on facebook was followed by nearly a dozen other similar comments from my friends. 

Well – CNN is turning to cool technology again, but this time they are asking viewers to participate.  In fact, it may be perhaps the biggest participatory marketing effort of the year.  Saturday’s coverage of Obama’s train ride to Washington D.C. was filled with non-stop promos around CNN’s latest initiative billed as “The Moment.”  CNN is asking viewers attending the inauguration to grab their cameras, snap a shot as Obama places his hand on the Bible and takes the presidential oath of office.  Those who capture "The Moment" are then instructed to email their photos to themoment@cnn.com.  The moment is not only expected to become the single most photographed moment in history, but CNN is hoping to make history itself by involving potentially millions to be part of a unique experiment using Microsoft Photosynth.  The technology will combine potentially millions of photos submitted to create a unique 3D photograph of “the moment”, which will be available to everyone.  Pretty unique and pretty cool.

It wasn’t that long ago that CNN was getting its clock cleaned by Fox News.  Now with some great news coverage, innovative ideas, use of cool technology, and a little participation, CNN is back on top.  

‘Til Next Time