We have compiled a list of some of our most frequently asked questions below. If you have additional questions, please do not hesitate to Contact Us, and we will be happy to provide further information.
- Sounds amazing, but how much does this service cost?
- We try to accommodate any budget by offering a wide variety of video packages. Prices depend on the specific video package chosen. If none of our offered video packages meet your specific needs, you may contact us for information on "Custom" packages. We are passionate about our work, and eager to find a way to work with those who want our services.
- Which DVD format do you use?
- We use DVD-R format. This is a very commonly used format, but if you are unsure whether this will work in your DVD player, you can check your DVD player’s User Manual to determine which formats it recognizes. You may also find your player’s format information by visiting http://www.videohelp.com/dvdplayers. If necessary, we can create your video in DVD+R format, as long as we are notified prior to the creation and/or delivery of your selected Video Package.
- Will there be music on my DVD? Can I request a favorite song?
- All video package choices contain, at least, an opening soundtrack. Unfortunately, all music published after 1922 is most likely protected by US Copyright Law and cannot be used without compensation to (or written permission from) the current owner, which can require considerable research, time, and expense. In order to keep our video packages affordable, Timekeeper Productions only offers music through licensed music libraries and/or “Creative Commons” agreements. You may trust our choice of appropriate musical selections or we can work to accommodate any style of music you prefer. Of course, all music published prior to 1923 is considered “public domain” and can be used if desired.
- What is your return policy?
- Our goal and expectations are your complete satisfaction, and we have a thorough pre-production process to ensure that your final product contains no surprises in terms of content, but once we have filmed, edited, or delivered your product we cannot offer any refunds. If any DVD is found to be defective, we will replace it at no additional charge. Please ask us for a copy of our service agreement for complete details on our return policy.
- How long before my DVD is completed?
- This greatly depends on what you order. In general, if no travel is involved and all involved parties are available and contributing accessory materials, a 2-hour DVD can be completed in 6 to 8 weeks. A better estimate can be provided after we have thoroughly discussed your needs.
- My Dad passed away 10 years ago. Can anything be done in his memory?
- Absolutely! "Memorial" videos are very popular. They normally contain cherished photos and interview footage of friends and family recounting fond memories.
- What is the actual interview like?
- Most people get nervous when thinking about these filmed interviews, but they are really just like having a conversation. In the beginning, most people are a bit uncomfortable with the camera but they soon forget it’s there altogether. It is not placed in your direct line of vision and it makes no sound during filming. Your interviewer strives to maintain a patient and relaxed atmosphere while occasionally assisting and directing the flow of conversation to make sure that it stays on track with the pre-production outline created with the client.
- My family wants me to have this done but I'm not so sure... What can you say to ease my concerns?
- I’ll just say that my own mother was reluctant to talk about her life in front of a camera. She felt that she had never done, seen, or experienced anything of interest. Lucky for us, she agreed to participate. After seeing the finished product, she was pleasantly surprised and happy that she did it!
- How many DVD copies will I receive?
- Depending on which you choose, each video package includes a designated number of copies. Additional DVD copies are available as "package add-ons" at $15.00 each.
- What if I need additional DVD copies after my video package has been delivered?
- Availability may depend on how much time has passed since your initial package delivery. Our policy is to keep a master copy of your final DVD for possible requests for additional client copies. However, Timekeeper Productions cannot guarantee indefinite availability for this service. If available, additional DVD copies can be purchased at $25.00 each plus shipping.
- What can I do to prepare?
- The best way to prepare is to start making a list of the topics you would like to cover, and maybe try to rank them in terms of priority. We will then work with you to pick the topics that will work best in the particular package ordered. It is also important to begin collecting photographs to include in the interview itself (see details on the package ordered). But don't worry; we will go over all of the details for the pre-production process with you before turning you loose on this!
- Is there a way to include our family tree?
- Certainly! Your family tree and any other important documents can be included. Each document will be treated as one of your allowed Video Package photos. However, these too will need to be supplied in a digital "JPEG" file format.
- Do you use the same questions for every interview?
- No, each life is unique and there is no set of interview questions best for everyone.
- What if I say something during the interview that I regret?
- This is not a problem as long as we are notified within 24 hours after the interview. In most scenarios, post-production editing software can remove undesired footage, but this becomes exceptionally difficult the further along in the editing process we get.
- Can I be interviewed in a different part of the country?
- Schedule permitting, we can conduct your interview at any location, provided that the environment is comfortable, quiet, and uninterrupted. Additional travel costs are required for filming locations beyond 50 miles of our home office. Please contact us for more information about this.
- What if I look terrible on camera?
- We realize that most people are self-conscious about the way they look on camera, but you must realize that your family and friends love you as you are.
- Can I focus primarily on my military service?
- Absolutely! Include as much or little as you want. We have a great admiration and appreciation for all of our country’s veterans. So far, our videos have included stories and pictures from World War One, World War Two, and Vietnam.
- Do you tape weddings?
- Unfortunately we do not tape weddings at this time. Our passion and focus is Video Biographies.
- Can I see your contract before I make a final decision?
- Of course! Please contact us and we'll email you a copy of our "Service Agreement."
