Frequently Asked Questions

1. How big or small can the production be?

It’s your production; you decide that! We produce programs ranging from 5 minutes to 2 hours per DVD. Special event programs that will be shown at large social gatherings should be no longer than 10-15 minutes as people have a short attention span when partying. Family history productions can range from 10 minutes to several hours (2 hours per DVD). 100 photos translate to approximately a 10 minute production.

2. How do you sort through a large amount of photos?

NO REMINISCING!!! If you have a photo in your hand longer than 5 seconds, you're reminiscing. Divide them into a YES stack and a NO stack. Divide the YES stack into sections by chronological order, family branches or whatever you want and put them in the envelopes provided in your kit. Put post-its on the back of photos and number them in the order you want them to go down. NEVER WRITE ON THE BACK OF THE PHOTO.

3. Do you help put it all together?

Photographic Memory provides the client with a kit and written instructions on how to put the media together. We frequently make suggestions as to what works well, and we're available for questions at any time in the process.

4. How much notice do you need?

The time involved in producing a Special Event photo montage depends on the amount and type of media and current production schedules. A 100-photo montage for an anniversary would take 2 to 3 days upon receipt of all the media. The time involved in a family history project depends on the amount and type of media and the complexity of the project.

5. What if materials have sound?

Some Super 8mm film as well as video may have sound. The client may choose to have the original sound on the video, delete the sound and use music only or put music under the original sound.

Clients may choose to do a voice-over  (their own voice) narration of the video in the studio. Music under a voice-over must be instrumental since a vocal would compete with the narration. A low cost alternative to a voice over is a short dedication on a CD at the beginning or end of the video.

6. What if I don't live in the area?

Your preparation packet and contract will be mailed to you along with instruction on how to prepare your media and ship it. The finished product and all your media will be shipped back to you.

7. What is the cost of a custom video / DVD production??

Each custom production is based on your family’s needs. Prices are based upon the amount and type of media. Estimates are provided at the start of the project.

Here are some general guidelines:

• Photo packages come in increments of 100. (100 photos equals approximately 10 minutes).The package 100 includes: 100 photos including music, 2 titles for $299. Extra photos are $3 each.

• Transfer of 8mm film, video editing, video inserts, voice over, and foreign film conversions all have separate charges.

• Discounts are available through home parties, special promotions and referred business.

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Photographic Memory
Irvine, CA 92620
(949) 653-8780