Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get started?
- Go to our Quote page and complete the on-line form;
- We call you back within one business day to discuss your SimplyVideo;
- We send you an estimate, agreement and invoice;
- You sign and return the documents and pay your deposit (50%) online; and
- Our videographer calls you to discuss your SimplyVideo and schedule your shoot
What can I expect from the shoot?
- Your videographer will arrive 15 to 30 minutes before the shoot to;
- determine the best shoot location,
- get set up and
- talk with you about the process.
- We’ll shoot your interview first.
- Don’t worry about the camera. Your interview will be a one-on-one conversation with the videographer.
- After your interview, we’ll shoot b-roll (video footage supporting the topics discussed in your interview).
How does the editing process work?
- We will have your video edited and placed on-line for your review within 7 business days of the shoot.
- You can make one set of changes with your edit at no charge.
- We’ll make your changes and post the final video.
How long does it take?
- From the time we shoot your video it takes approximately 7 business days for the rough cut.
- We try to complete changes within 5 business days.
That means you can have your finished SimplyVideo in as little as 12 business days.
What happens after my entire SimplyVideo process is finished?
- WE send you your final invoice
- YOU make your final payment
- WE post your video to our Vimeo account and give you the embedded code
- WE send you a surprise. (Don’t even ask. We are sworn to secrecy.)
- YOU tell your friends
How do I know what shoot package to choose?
This depends on a few factors:
- How long do you want your SimplyVideo to be?
- How many people do you want interviewed for your SimplyVideo?
- How many different locations do you want to shoot your SimplyVideo and how far away are they?
Here is what each shoot package typically includes:
| A typical 2 hr shoot includes the following: | A typical 4 hr shoot includes the following: | A typical 8 hr shoot includes the following: |
|---|---|---|
| 1 location | Up to 2 locations | Up to 4 locations |
| 1 interview | Up to 3 interviews | Up to 4 interviews |
| Interview and b-roll at same location | B-Roll | B-Roll |
Let’s look at some examples (actual schedules may vary…):
| 2 hr shoot | 4 hr shoot | 8-hr Shoot |
|---|---|---|
| 15 min – travel | 15 min – travel | 15 min – travel |
| 15 min – set up | 15 min – set up | 30 min – set up |
| 30 min – interview | 30 min – interview 1 | 30 min – interview 1 |
| 30 min – b-roll | 10 min – Reset | 10 min – Reset |
| 15 min – Pack | 30 min – interview 2 | 30 min – interview 2 |
| 15 min – Travel | 10 min – Reset | 10 min – Reset |
| 30 min – interview 3 | 30 min – interview 3 | |
| 10 min – Reset | 10 min – Reset | |
| 60 min – b-roll | 30 min – interview 4 | |
| 15 min – Pack | 10 min – Reset | |
| 15 min – Travel | 30 min – interview 5 | |
| 10 min – Reset | ||
| 60 min – Lunch | ||
| 120 min – b-roll | ||
| 15 min – Pack | ||
| 15 min – Travel |
Do I need to memorize anything?
- DO NOT memorize what you want to say. Our simple approach allows you to carry on a one-on-one conversation with your videographer. Just speak from your experience and ignore the camera.
So, I’ve never been on camera before…what do I wear?
- The video camera “sees” colors, patterns and contrast differently than the human eye, with that in mind, the following clothing do’s and dont’s are suggested for all persons appearing on- camera.
| DON’T WEAR | DO WEAR |
|---|---|
| Don’t wear white or black. | Wear medium colors—medium blue, green, maroon, wine, purple, etc. |
| Don’t wear “loud” patterns like plaids, stripes, or checks. Avoid fine checks, stripes, herringbone or similar patterns. | Consider your hair color when choosing attire. For light hair, (blonde or gray) lighter colors are suggested. Beige, light gray, pink, light blue and most pastels are best. |
| Don’t wear shiny jewelry which may catch or reflect light | If your hair is dark, stick with a medium to dark color range avoiding black. |
| Don’t wear anything distracting like large logos, etc. | Men, follow the same rules for choosing a tie—a non-shiny plain tie, which complements your suit, is best. |
What should I do about my makeup and hair?
- We’ll provide simple make-up application for all on-camera persons. However, the following guidelines will be helpful to you in preparation for the shoot.
- Women should apply their make-up as usual. Before you’re shoot we may apply a little powder.
- Women should keep other make-up simple.
- Men should try to shave as closely as possible before going on camera. If you’re scheduled to appear later in the day, bring a razor.
- DO NOT get a haircut within a week of appearing on camera.
- If hand close-ups are scheduled, give yourself a manicure before the shoot.
What if I’m still not sure what I should wear?
- Should you have questions about wardrobe or makeup, bring several options and consult the videographer prior to the shoot.
Can I use my own photos in my SimplyVideo?
- Yes, you can use some of your own photos. The packages include up to 5 of your photos per finished minute of video. Additional photos are $5 each.
What format do I need to send my photos in?
Photo specs:
- Size: 1920 x 1080 landscape (minimum)
- Format: JPEG, RGB
- Resolution – 72 dpi (minimum)
