One of the reasons I have a great time every year at SXSW is that I get to check out the coolest new gadgets. I was sad that I didn’t get a chance to see the Kindle in person, but I did get to drool a bit over the Flip video camera.

This tasty little device allows you to shoot relatively short video clips then upload it easily to the YouTube. With only a few functions, lightweight construction, and a $119/$149 price tag, it’s a great travel camera.

Interestingly, the fact that the device a) doesn’t take hours and hours of video, and b) uploads with ease means that you’re actually going to do something with your video. Rather than collecting a pile of DV tapes with hours of meaningless footage, you’re forced to think about what you actually want other people to see.

I’ve actually had some ideas for clients who are wanting to solicit user submitted video: send a Flip to key community members and ask them to complete various tasks in exchange. At $119, why not? Far cheaper than many programs to engage users. Of course, I’d have to try one out myself first – you know, just to be sure.

I wonder if Flip sells in bulk…

Photo credit: Kristie Wells