Do you want to write for one of the world’s premier DVD resource websites? Then you have come to the right place! We have a number of positions available, and are always on the lookout for dedicated, talented people to join the team. Be it news, features or software and hardware reviews, we could have the position for you. Here’s a run down of the positions we’re looking to fill.
News Reporter
Given that DVDActive is a DVD resource site, we like to keep our readers up to date with the latest goings on in the DVD scene. Whether that be summarising press releases, doing some investigative journalism, or having a day out reporting on trade shows, there's normally plenty to do. We would prefer people to know a lot about the DVD scene in their specific region, and hopefully have ties with people in the industry, or at least be prepared to make ties. Being a reporter for our site is probably the most challenging role we have, because news needs to be regularly updated to ensure that DVDActive is as up to date as possible.
Hardware Reviewer
Know a lot about DVD players, speakers, amps and home cinema in general? Then you could join our team of hardware-orientated reviewers. We aren’t provided with an array of review products, so it would be preferable for applicants to have access to such hardware. In other words, if you run or work in a shop and know every item inside and out, then you are the kind of person we are looking for!
Software Reviewer
One of the most popular positions we have, this role involves reviewing DVD software, be it feature films, television series or other material. However, we must stress that we are not seeking individuals who are interested only in procuring a large amount of free review copies! Initially, becoming a software reviewer means reviewing titles from your own collection. As our working relationship develops, and trust is established, you will find a steady stream of review copies heading in your direction. We can’t always guarantee that they’ll be your cup of tea though!
Feature Writer
We especially appreciate those members of staff who take the time to write the odd article, but we are also interested in hearing from those of you who would like to contribute to this area on a more regular basis. We are looking for original, in-depth articles focusing on all aspects of DVD. You don't need to have industry connections for this position, but you may find it helpful. All we ask is that you possess the ability to write creative, interesting pieces of work that will appeal to a broad range of readers. Articles should relate to DVD, be it the price of software and hardware, the disparity between the content of discs in different regions, or maybe even the future of the format.
We also aim to secure interviews with people in the business. Whether it’s the stars of the films themselves, the directors, or the producers of the DVDs, we’d like to get inside their heads.
General Contributor
Not really interested in one specific area? Then this could be for you. All sections of DVDActive need to be updated regularly, so if you want to help out with the less glamorous features such as updating the player hacks or adding new definitions to the glossary, then this is for you.
Our Technology
DVDActive functions via an admin system that a long time developer and is being continually updated. This system allows any of our contributors to easily add content (news, reviews, etc) to any of our sections. Thanks to our advanced approval system, only content that has been vetted by an administrative member will appear on the site. This safeguard allows us to check new submissions for mistakes (we all make them) before the content goes live. As your working relationship with DVDActive develops, you will be given greater administrative powers allowing you more freedom when adding content to the site.
Requirements
If that little lot hasn’t put you off, this might! DVDActive is only interested in working with dedicated individuals who can guarantee a certain level of commitment.
All positions mentioned above are unpaid. DVDActive is run as a hobby, money that is made is reinvested in the site to cover hardware, bandwidth and other costs such as advertising. So please, only apply if you have the time and are willing to spend it contributing to the site!
A good internet connection is preferable, as is the ability to communicate with other members of the team via email.
You
must have the following minimum spec: a 32” widescreen television (or greater), a multi-regional DVD player, a surround sound system capable of playing back Dolby Digital 5.1 (DTS is also desirable), and a computer with a DVD-Rom drive with the ability to take screen captures. You must also be aged eighteen or over to join.
Although our approval system was designed to keep mistakes to a minimum, they can sometimes slip through (which is to be expected). However, we do expect our contributors to make an effort when submitting work to the site. If spelling and grammar aren’t your strong points then please, use a spell checker! It saves us a lot of time and enables us to approve you content sooner.
Application Instructions
To apply for any of the above positions, write at least a thousand word review in the style of DVDActive. It can be about any DVD title in your collection, regardless of whether it has already been reviewed for the site. Once complete send the review along with details about yourself to
jobs@dvdactive.com. We normally respond with a few weeks with a "yes" or "no".
Any of the following file formats are suitable: txt, rtf, doc, html, sxw, odt or pdf.