Starlight Video Productions
Frequently Asked Questions... revised Jan 2009
How long have you been in business?
Starlight Video Productions shot its first wedding video in 1991
Where are you located and what areas do you serve?
We're in the Town of Warwick in Orange County (New York). We consider our area of service to be Orange and neighboring counties including Rockland, Westchester, Putnam, Dutchess and Ulster Counties in New York, Bergen, Passaic and Sussex counties in New Jersey, and western Connecticut.
Do you travel to other areas, such as New York City or Albany?
Yes, but additional charges will apply for travel and time. Under most circumstances we will not offer a Basic Package (one videographer) within the city of New York.
May we get a sample of your work?
Certainly, we usually send an actual wedding video as a demo, so before we select it, we'd like to talk to you so that we send one that might be similar to what you're planning. We produce our videos to our clients tastes, therefore there can be great differences in videos from client to client.
We've been to weddings where the videographers used huge bright lights, and had an "in your face" manner that ruined the atmosphere. Do you work this way?
No. Many of our customers choose us because of our low key and unobtrusive approach. Our cameras are excellent performers in low light situations, allowing us to use minimal lighting. Now in our 18th year, we've yet to use any lights during a wedding ceremony.
Do you bring back-up equipment?
Yes
Do you shoot in High Definition?
Yes, in 2008 all our weddings were shot with Hi Def cameras and edited into widescreen standard DVDs. Blu-ray is an option for 2009.
Do you use cheesy animations and special effects in your work?
No.
What techniques or effects do you use?
Effects that work best are those that are used creatively and sparingly. We like to use slow motion and black and white, and, at times a combination of the two, and simple dissolves. We use titles sparingly as well, to introduce the video, and to scroll the wedding invitation and credits.
Do you interview guests at the reception?
Only if specifically requested before the wedding, and not by going from table to table. Most of our clients tell us that they don't want guests to be put on the spot with an unwanted microphone and camera in their face. Our solution is to set up a camera on a tripod outside the ballroom, and have the DJ make an announcement inviting those who truly want to record a message to you to come out and do so.
How long are your videos?
There is no hard and fast rules here, the averages range between 75 and 90 minutes, with Basic Packages being slightly shorter. We feel that at this length you will see all of the major moments of the day, and quite a few of the smaller details that added so much to your day.
Are there Menus and Chapter Points on the DVD?
Yes. Normally we create at least 2 menus and 10 Chapters per wedding, possibly more.
Can we get the unedited footage?
Upon request and at no additional charge.
How many DVDs do we get?
Each package is delivered with a total of three DVDs. More can be purchased at any time.
Photography is more important to me than Videography, how will you work with my photographer?
In general, most photographers and Videographers are professionals who understand that the client wants both photos and videos. We will work as a team with any other professionals working your wedding, and it is our experience that 95 % of professional photographers feel the same way.
Do you stay until the end of my reception?
In all but our Standard Plus Package, yes.
How long after the wedding will we receive our video?
Assuming that we have received everything we need from you before the wedding, the average is 8 - 12 weeks
What is your payment schedule?
We would require a deposit of $200, the remaining balance is then divided in half, with one half due on your wedding day, one half on delivery.
Do you accept credit cards?
Yes, thru PayPal
Are you insured?
We are inured for Business Liability & Theft, and will gladly make the specific policy information available to your banquet director should this be required.
Are you a member of WEVA? What is WEVA?
Yes. WEVA is the Wedding & Event Videographers Association. It is an international organization, and membership allows us access to information on technology, and allows us to share ideas with out counterparts as far as marketing, creative techniques, specific product usage, and much more.