Frequently Asked Questions
What is a video slideshow?
A video slideshow combines your photos with background music and weaves them together in a format that is easy for you to view time after time. The video slideshow comes complete with title screens, zooms & pans (commonly known at the Ken Burns effect), and a custom printed cover. We presently offer you a choice of either DVD or VHS. All you need to do is pop the video into your player and watch the slideshow on your television!
Can I project the slideshow onto a large screen?
In most cases, projecting onto a large screen shouldn't be a problem. Many churches and reception halls are already equipped to handle video projection. If they don't have the necessary equipment, they can usually provide a list of local vendors who can handle the task. It could be as simple as renting a large-screen television. If you need to project your slideshow from a computer, ask us -- we can format your video slideshow so that it can be projected from a computer.
How do I get started?
The first thing you'll need to do is contact us. We will consult with you to make sure you get just what you want. We will discuss the style or theme that you want, the music, the timeline etc. Each slideshow is completely unique because we spend the time with you to make it special. We will also provide you with detailed instructions for planning how you want your video to be presented, as well as how to prepare your photos for us to scan. Please contact us.
How many photos should I plan on using?
There are usually about 10 photos per minute in a finished video slideshow. This is a rough approximation, but it gives a guideline. So, if you want a 10 minute slideshow, you can figure on about 100 photos.
Can I use photos that are faded?
Yes. We color correct each photo that we scan. Most old photos that are faded or damaged can be returned to their original beauty. Minor retouching is included at no extra cost. If any photos require a significant amount of work, there will be an extra charge, but the extra charge is probably less than what you would pay at any other photo restoration lab.
Please keep in mind that because of differences in monitors, televisions, and color systems, there may be slight color differences between your original photos and the photos as they appear on your television.
Will my photos be returned?
Yes. We treat your cherished photos with the utmost care and respect. They will be returned to you completely unharmed along with your finished video.
Can I make reprints of the photos that you scan?
Yes. We can provide you with a CD of the high-resolution, color-corrected scans of your photos. You can take the CD to any local photo lab for reprints. Or you can view, edit and make your own prints on your home computer. See our Pricing Guide.
Do you accept digital photos?
Yes. If you already have digital photos, or you would like to have your photos scanned elsewhere we can certainly use them. In fact, you'll get a discount for providing digital photos. If you are scanning photos for this project, it is best if they are scanned at a minimum of 300 dpi (especially for smaller photos) and saved as high quality JPEGs. Each photo should be saved with a number indicating where it comes in the slideshow. (eg. 001.jpg, 002.jpg. etc.) If you have any questions about scanning or using digital photos please contact us.
Can I use scenes from my home movies?
We can use cuts from VHS, 8 mm video tape, mini DV and DVD. (Although we don't accept 8 mm film, there are studios that will convert your old films to video tape or DVD which we can then use.) There is an added cost for using movies. See our Pricing Guide.
Can I choose my own music?
Maybe. Music copyrights are a very complicated matter and there is a lot of gray area. Many issues have not yet been decided in court, so it is best to err on the side of caution. If you own a legitimate copy of a song on CD, we will transfer that song to a video slideshow for you. (CD-Rs and MP3s are not acceptable - you must own a commercial copy of the CD.) If you have further questions about music, we will be glad to discuss them with you. Please contact us.
How long does it take to get the finished video slideshow?
Plan on at least 2 weeks from the time we receive the photos to the time you receive the finished video slideshow.
How much does a video slideshow cost?
Please see our Pricing page.
Can I place a "rush" order?
We can accommodate rush orders in most cases. If you need your slideshow in less than 2 weeks,
let us know. We can move your order to the top of the list and get it back to you in 3-5 business days.
There is a limit to the length of the slideshow for rush orders and there is a $50 charge for this service.
Please contact us.
New
Service!Due to many requests,
we are now offering
media transfer services.VHS to DVD
Cassette to CD
LP to CD
