Instant Filming FAQ

Q: What format do you use?

We use 720p H264, which is full television quality. It loads “as is” to YouTube, Facebook, My Space and similar video sites. It also plays natively in iPads, Tab computers and smart phones.

Q: Can you webstream?

Yes but we require a landline internet connection. Wireless streaming is not reliable enough in Australia yet for us to offer this service in good faith. We expect wireless to become an option around September 2011.

Q: Will I be able to supply the footage to Commercial or Community Television?

The video is TV quality but not in the specific format required by television. We can easily convert the video for you, it will be ready the next working day. Be careful however about technical aspects of your production if you wish to use either Commercial TV or Community TV (Aurora and TVS). There are requirements on lighting and sound you need to comply with – talk to us as we are experienced in TV production.

Q: What format is the DVD?

Our DVDs are data DVDs, not video DVDs. The difference is that a data DVD will not play in many DVD players – especially older ones. These discs are designed to be played in a computer, or in a modern DVD player that can handle data discs. Why do we do this? These days people want the DVD of their performance to put on their Youtube or Facebook page. Giving people an old-fashioned playable DVD means they have to rip the DVD first. We can of course convert the format to a playable DVD with menu and chapter navigation, this may take up to a week depending on treatment.

Q: How many copies can you duplicate?

We have an 11-up duplicating machine, so we can burn about 50 DVDs per hour. If you need more we can bring multiple machines. Additional costs apply.

Q: What do I need to provide?

1. We need an accurate run list emailed the day before, and any amendments provided 30 minutes prior to the event commencing so we can prepare titles and graphics in advance.
2. A USB to copy to, also provided 30 minutes in advance so we can run an integrity check. Alternatively we can supply a USB as an additional charge. 
3. If you wish to sell DVDs we need to agree on the label design and quantity to be duplicated in advance to allow for the labels to be printed on the discs. You are committed to the quantities you specify. 
4. Somewhere to set up. This needs to be close to the filming position otherwise cabling and boosting charges will apply. We need an area of 1sqm for the camera and 1sqm for the console – next to each other is perfect. We of course also need power within a sensible distance. 

Q: Can I collect my copies later?

Certainly, we can mail your event USB or DVD – allow 3 days to pack and transit. If you have nominated to distribute by DVD then we retain a master and can supply copies for 12 months.

Fine Print

We are easy to get on with but over the years we have learnt a few lessons the hard way, so please check this handy list to be aware of.

• If you wish to sell the event on a DVD this must be a single DVD. Generally this is 80 minutes of run time. Double DVDs complicate “on the spot” sales too much. 
• DVDs on the day are subject to a minimum of 50 units and are available for $1.95 each with printed label and supplied in a vinyl sleeve 
• The client must provide the staff to sell the DVDs – we do not have contact with your patrons at any time. 
• Payment is 50% before the day of filming and the balance in cash, bank cheque or credit card on the day. Accounts are not available. Tax invoices will of course be provided. 
• Mistakes in the titles you provide cannot be corrected, so please spell everyone’s names correctly and please dont forget anyone. 
• Name and title changes are not accepted verbally – everything in writing please. 
• We do not keep a copy of the finished event however we can take a copy into our laptop before leaving if you ask. Allow for copy time please. 
• Please be careful that our console needs to be lit with a desk lamp. Our camera(s) use small monitors that also put out some light. Seating people behind us is generally not a good idea, at least allow plenty of seats immediately behind us for the comfort of your patrons. 
• Please respect OH&S laws in terms of where our equipment and camera operato(s) are sited, it is 100% necessary to discuss this with the venue in advance or you may have problems on the day. 
• We require a sound board feed for best results, please talk to us about this. It is usually free. 
• If your event is cancelled before we leave home on the day the second half of the charge is not payable. Once we are there the full amount is payable. 
• Event duration and starting times are specified in your quote – we reserve the right to charge additionally for events that start later than 30 minutes after the agreed time, and that run more than 30 minutes over the agreed duration.