Why We Share: A Study of Motivations for Mobile Media Sharing

摘要

Mobile phones equipped with cameras have become popular among consumers, and this has fuelled an increase in mobile media sharing. The present research investigates the sharing of mobile media by conducting a diary study to specifically understand the type of media captured and shared, and the motivations behind these activities. Participants maintained a month-long diary, documenting their media sharing activities. Post-study interviews were also conducted to elicit additional information not captured in the diary. Results suggest a range of motivational factors, and that social and emotional influences played an important role in media sharing behavior. Participants were also more inclined to share photos that any other media due to cost and transmission time considerations. Implications of our work are also discussed.