What are you using for field recording?
We are currently shooting primarily with the Panasonic SDX-900 camcorder.  It shoots using Panasonic's proprietary DVC-Pro 50 digital format and records in 16x9 or 4x3, at 60i, 30p and 24p.  We have a variety of lighting kits, grip stands and reflectors, lavaliere and shotgun microphones plus a doorway dolly and an 8' jib arm.   Our package is fine for most requirements, but we also have a strong rental network to cover special exceptions.

 

Do you offer studio as well as location videography?
Yes, we shoot in the studio regularly. We have good working relationships with several nearby studios, so we are able to book projects into the studio which is the right size and offers the right features.

 

Do you have video editing capabilities?
Sure do. We operate two fully equipped Final Cut Pro 6.0 edit suites running on Mac Pro workstations. We use an Aja uncompressed capture card and import video from DVC-Pro 50, 25, DVCam, Beta SP, DVD and mini-DV, among others via SDI.  For graphics and effects, we’re using Adobe AfterFX, PhotoShop and Maya 3-D.

 

Can you provide music?
You bet.  These days most of our music is custom, because we’re using software which allows us to adjust the length, arrangement and instrumentation of each piece so it fits the production precisely.  We also have a long working relationship with one of the world’s largest royalty music libraries, which puts millions of cuts just a download away. If you prefer a totally original track or would like a jingle, we call in one of several talented composers.  We also have a narration booth and sound effects library on site, so you’ll find everything you need to put together a great soundtrack.

 

Can I use stills from the video on my website?  How about in print?
If your video was shot in standard definition, it’s 72 dpi, which should be fine on the web but low for print quality.  If you’re looking for a front page photo for a brochure, don’t look to video.  However, if you’re looking for a small photo to illustrate an application on the inside page, a video still may be fine. 

 

Can I add video to my website?
If you have good video, by all means, use it. Most websites are using Windows Media (wmv), Quicktime or Flash files, but you’ll have to check with your webmaster or service provider for specifics.  In general, shorter programs are much better suited for the web.

 

When we submit materials, what file formats do you prefer?

Great question!  For logos, we prefer .eps because they can be scaled to any size and still give us nice clean edges.  For photos, we prefer .tiff or .psd formats.  We like to get photos as close to the original quality as possible and do any necessary resizing ourselves.

 

How should I send my materials to you?

We recommend using one of the free on-line delivery services, such as You Send It, or call us for our ftp information.  Please don’t email any attachment larger than 2 megabytes.