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Frequently Asked Questions 
Can we use people from our own company in the production to save talent fees? Talent fees are the key words, here. Generally, professional actors are used for voice over and on-screen word. They do a great job. They learn their parts and can cope with script changes and the many re-takes of scenes. Best of all, however, is that they come across well on the TV screen. In short they have talent. If you need to trim your budget, there are better ways. We can work within most budgets without sacrificing the effectiveness of a true production. Using non-professional talent is a risk.
Our sales manager gives presentations on our products all the time. He’s a natural. He’s friendly and people really like him and identify with him. Plus, he knows the product backwards and forwards. Shouldn’t he be the one talking about our product on our film? Sometimes company people can do a good job, especially experts like yours, and we've used them in our film productions. One word of caution, however, we’ve seen productions get shelved soon after they were produced because the spokesperson on the film decided to quit and go to work for the competition. You can’t have your spokesperson (especially, if they're well-known) saying good things about your product if they are no longer part of your organization. The appearance is that they found a better product or a better company to work for.
How about having our CEO or one of our top managers appear on-camera? Is there anything they can do to come across as professional as possible? Yes, CEOs and top managers are excellent choices for corporate presentation. They should be prepared for the shoot with several choices of wardrobe. They should also have their lines memorized. They should review a list of tips and suggestions for looking good on-camera.
We have some existing footage of our product in the field. It looks really good. It’s on VHS format video tape. Can we use that in the production? We pride ourselves on our ability to incorporate many different types of media into our production. VHS video footage, while it is the lowest resolution format, could be copied onto HD, the broadcast standard, and edited. Results vary.
How disruptive is the production? Full-production, Hollywood-style crews can be disruptive, it’s true. We like to keep crews to a minimum. This is not only less disruptive, but it also saves money.
How long does it take to produce a High Definition digital film? It depends on the complexity, but generally about a month. We are used to working with deadlines. We’ve done many quick turn-around presentations. We burn the midnight oil for our clients.
How do we find actors? We have a selection of professional and semi-professional actors to work with and when necessary we make a casting call. Glossy, video tapes and audio tapes (or Reels) are commonly available for review.
What does a HD production cost? There are many factors. The usual figure given in the industry is $1,500 to $2,500 hundred per finished minute for quality productions. Some HD productions run about $4,900 per finished minute.
We only have a small budget. Is there anything we can do to help cut costs? You tell us up-front what kind of budget you have in mind, the production can be tailored for your needs and requirements. There are many ways to make HD productions more economical. We’re experts in trimming costs.
Can you put our completed production on DVD for distribution and the internet? When we know exactly how you intend to use your film, we can design your production for DVD and the internet. Footage produced could be used on the computer presentation, as well. For using video on the Internet we can give you access to the new streaming formats. Streaming formats don't require long download times. With embeded players, they can play back footage almost immediately.
What’s the first step? What do we do? Take a few minutes to think about your project and your needs. Here are 7 possible questions to ask yourself: 1. In what setting will the production be shown? 2. Who will be watching? 3. What is the purpose of this production? 4. What do you want people to do when they're through viewing your film? 5. What do you want people to remember about the film? 6. How many people are going to view your film? 7. How are you going to distribute the film? Then, e-mail us at newproject@7and20seconds.com |
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