Can't I create my own DVD Montages?
Yes, anyone with the correct equipment and experience can. In order to accomplish the same professional results, the typical home computer would need additional thousands of dollars in audio/video hardware and software upgrades. In addition, the user would have to have years in multimedia integration. Just like pouring cement, anyone can do it However, for a professional look, it's wise to use a service with the right equipment and experience.
What is the difference between a DVD Montage, DVD Slideshow, Living Scrapbook, and a Video Scrapbook?
Essentially they are all the same thing. They are all photos or videos which are placed into a separate video accompanied by music. Some are better than others. 1CVB Productions carefully story-boards all projects, evaluating each photo and the desired theme of the finished product. The proper amount of pan and/or zoom is then applied to each photo so that it flows in the overall show.
Can I scan my own photos?
Yes, however you may not achieve the professional results we can achieve. If you own a scanner and a CD burner, contact us and we will give you the specifications to scan your own photos.
But my pictures are one of a kind and I'm afraid to send them away.
We fully understand and appreciate the care and concern you have over your precious memories. We have established procedures in place for the careful handling of your photographs.
What size photos can I use?
We can scan photos as small as wallet size (1"x1.5") up to 8"x10".
What about music that is copyrighted?
Nearly all music has a copyright. In order for us to use it, you have to supply the original CD (no "burned" CDR's) or we can purchase a copy online for $2.25 per song.
How long will it take you to complete my project?
Normally, we try to complete a project within 5-7 business days. However, various factors such as complexity of the project and condition of the source footage and/or photographs can affect turnaround time. Once we receive the materials and payment for your project, we will give you an estimated time that you can expect your project to be completed. If you have a project that is time sensitive, we can work with you to accommodate your schedule. Contact us with your needs prior to submitting your materials. Rush processing is available for an additional charge.
Are the DVDs that you create copy-protected?
No. We do not impose any copy-protection into our projects. This allows you to make a backup copy to keep in a safe place, should something happen to the original. But we are in business to succeed. We would ask that your buy you copies from us.
How much will fit into a DVD?While you can fit much more time onto a DVD, we typically try not fit more than 90-120 mins. per disc. This is to retain high quality audio and video. The more that is put onto a disc, the more "compression" that is required. This compression begins to degrade the quality of the video and audio beyond the 90-120 minute mark.
Do I have to manually advance each slide?
No. Once you start your video, the pictures will change automatically.
How do I organize and gather all of my pictures and/or negatives before submitting? Before you begin looking and collecting photos, have a clear and comprehensive vision and theme for your DVD photo montage. Have in mind what you are trying to accomplish. For example, is this video concentrating on events that have happened throughout a person's lifetime, or is it centered around one special event you would like to capture? After you have a general idea of the theme of your montage, the next step is to choose, organize, and categorize your pictures. Pick out the photos that are in good condition if possible (no bends, tears, or blurs) and most importantly, choose the ones that you feel really tell a story. Be sure they are in the order you would like them to appear on the finished montage. The best way to ensure this is by numbering the backs of each picture.
Do not write on the back of your pictures. Instead, use a post-it note. This will prevent any damage to the photograph. Of course, you can leave the order of the photos up to us if you wish. Lastly, you will need to group your photos according to the song that you want to be played in the background during the montage. Place each grouping in a zip-loc bag, and label the bag with the corresponding song title.
Once they are ready to be mailed, be certain to send them in a sturdy photo/document type envelope to prevent any bending or folding.
What can I add to my photo montage/slideshow besides pictures? We can add any of the following to our montages and slideshows: Photographs Voice (CD, audio cassette tape, WMA, MP3, WAV); and Video (VHS, VHS-C, 8MM, Hi8 Digital 8,, MiniDV). We can also add non-photo content such as newspaper articles, awards, advertisements, brochures, certificates, etc.
Can I use copyrighted music in my video? In order for us to use copyrighted music in your project, you must own the original CD. If it's something you want, but do not own, we can purchase the individual song for you for only $2.50, and send it you the along with your completed project. We can also use our collection of royalty-free music in your project. We have hundreds of instrumental tracks in a wide range of styles available for use. Contact us for more information.
Are my original photos altered in any way?
No. We make a digital copy of your photos for all touch up work. All of the changes occur to that file only. At no time is the original altered.
What are captions?
Labels or quotes under a specific photo to make your montage more entertaining or informative and to help the audience follow the story being told.
What can you do to enhance imperfect photos?
Photo enhancements include red-eye reduction, photo cropping, light touch-up and auto leveling of picture properties (tint, brightness, etc.). Some more advanced techniques include dust and scratch removal, straightening and color correction.
