Homegrown Histories

FAQs

(Frequently Asked Questions)

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How do I prepare for my interview?

After we have met and determined the scope of your project, you'll want to think about, as well as check in with your loved ones about any special stories that you want to make sure are included in the film or recording.  

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What do I wear for my interview?

Anything you are comfortable wearing that also makes you feel good. We typically film from the waist up so your top should be the focus of your wardrobe decision!  For audio interviews, this is not a concern because your image is not being captured.

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Can I be in the room when my loved one is being interviewed?

Yes, although my preference is to conduct the interview without anyone else in the room (other than the video shooter or audio interviewer). Narrators can get distracted and can also hold back on stories if they know they are being listened to by loved ones.

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I have loads of pictures I'd like included in my video biography.  How do I get them to you?

The most cost-effective way is for you (or someone you know) to scan them and send them to me electronically.  I offer scanning services and charge an hourly fee on top of the package price.  I'll be happy to talk with you about my scanning services if you'd like to go that route.

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Do you include travel expenses in your package prices?

If you live in Marin, Sonoma, and San Francisco counties, I do not charge for travel. However, the videographers that I contract with may charge a fee for travel within those areas in addition to the package price.  When we meet to discuss your project I will be able to give you an idea of what (if any) travel expenses will be charged. For locations that take an hour or more to travel to, an hourly rate will be charged and we can discuss that rate when we review your project. 

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Would you conduct my interview over Zoom?

Absolutely!  I'm more than happy to interview you over Zoom.  If you decide this is the interview route for you, it's important to recognize that the lighting, sound, and quality of the video will look and sound differently than an in-person interview using state-of-the-art equipment.  That being said, I have conducted several interviews this way and they have turned out well! The cost of your package would be reduced to reflect the lack of in-person filming.

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How long does it take to produce a video or audio biography?

It all depends on the complexity of your project. Typically, the Audio Biography and Raw Video Biography packages take approximately two to five weeks to produce, depending on the number of people interviewed and other factors.  Production for the more cinematic Classic and Premium Video Biography packages can take anywhere from four to ten weeks depending on the package you choose, how many people will be interviewed, the number of photos in your project, and many other factors.  I will be able to give you an estimate on timing when we determine the scope of your project.

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What if you ask something I'm uncomfortable answering?

Remember, this is your project so anything you don't feel comfortable answering, you just let me know and we'll move on to the next question.

 

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