STEP 2 Determine Which Type Of Tool Works For You, Continued B: DIRECT DIGITAL SHARING: Directly transferring big files from one person to another has always been FILMING difficult on the web, and unless you have web hosting or can run your own server, it’s still a challenge. The most common way to send a file directly to someone is email, but when it comes to video, that method can be extremely slow, limited to files of a certain size, and insecure. Often documenters in the field shooting mobile video will use messaging apps like WhatsApp to share their files, but those methods are less than ideal for many of the same reasons as email. For those working together in the same vicinity, Bluetooth, WiFi Direct, and other near-field communication (NFC) technologies are all secure and simple options, but work best if you are only moving a limited number of smaller files. • BLUETOOTH: The same thing that connects your wireless keyboard or mouse to your computer, Bluetooth is a secure option available on even the simplest feature phones, but its slow transfer speeds make it an impractical option for transferring more than a few files. • WIFI DIRECT: An updated protocol with speeds up to ten times faster than Bluetooth, WiFi Direct is available on newer smartphones. NFC-equipped devices use WiFi Direct to tether to other devices and transfer files. • BITTORRENT SYNC: BitTorrent Sync is a file transfer application based on the BitTorrent protocol, and it allows a range of private and encrypted sharing options. Be aware, though, that it is not open source, which means its code cannot be publicly audited for security flaws, and it requires that each device be powered on at the same time for the file to transfer. C: PHYSICAL STORAGE: It often turns out that handing off or mailing an SD card, flash drive, or hard drive is the safest and simplest way to transfer files. Poor connectivity, limited technical knowledge among partners involved in a transfer, or security concerns may push you towards the tried and true option of transferring files offline. • EXTERNAL HARD DRIVES: External hard drives can hold terabytes of data, while flash drives are small enough to fit discreetly in your pocket but come with limited capacity that can run out quickly if you are moving videos. One good option is the Seagate Wireless Plus which has 1 terabyte (that’s 1000 gigabytes) of storage, is battery-powered so it can be used to backup and transfer files in the field, and is WiFi enabled. Similar options include the Kingston Wi-Drive. • MicroSD CARDS: As for smartphone storage, many come with microSD cards that can easily be swapped out and passed to others, though they are becoming less common due to the constant demand for thinner and sleeker phones. Compatible with some Windows and Android phones, GoPros and a range of cameras, these cards offer a cheap option for getting a lot of storage, up to 128GB, that can be easily shared given their tiny size. • USB TRANSFER: Transferring from smartphones or other devices to a computer or external hard drive can obviously be done with the standard USB cables, as well, but if all you have is a phone and a flash drive, you will need an extra cord to make them compatible. The USB On-The-Go (or USB OTG) can be purchased inexpensively online and provides a way to connect a flash drive directly to a smartphone. TECH TOOLS UPDATES Tech tools are always changing! Visit the WITNESS blog for the latest information and reviews: blog.witness.org 169 VIDEO AS EVIDENCE: TECH TOOLS V 1.0