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Modified: Friday, January 28, 2005
-> FAQ

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1) Is it luck that you can achieve consistence excellent-outstanding results wedding after wedding?

A: No. It is not an accident we have a consitence and reliable record. It takes tremendous planning and preparation. In a typical wedding, we ask the client to provide their schedule. If they do not have one, we will inquire about it. Then, we have a brief phone or face to face meeting to discuss the results they wanted for the wedding. Next, we attend rehearsal to scout the location and look for any possible problems. We usually bring a portable digital camera to get static shots for review. Depending on the package the client wanted (1 or 2 cameras), we thoroughly discuss the shooting and approach to our associates. On the wedding day, we arrive about 1-2 hours early to scout the area and look for the best possible angles. It goes on and on. We recommend you to read our DEMO section that will showcase each individual wedding approach.. As you can see, quality production requires careful thought, planning and execution. It is not based on luck or the right time of the year.

2) What is considered to be a master level work?

A: Our definition of a master is someone who is willing to do the same (and even boring) task over and over, but with a constant and never improvement mindset. Simply put, we always look on small ways to improve. Fundamentals (lighting, camera work, composition, etc) are always practiced over and over. Without this philosophy, we can never achieve the cinematographer status.

3) What is the major difference between standard definition and high definition?

A: Simple. High definition looks almost reallife. If you do not have any high definition TV or subscribe to HD channels, we strongly recommend you to visit your local electronic store to see it for yourself. For the first time since the introduction of TV back in the 1930s, viewers can now experience the clarity and detail that never before possible.

4) I'm on a tight budget. Is it possible to shoot in standard defintion now and still get similar results?

A1: We use the finest super wide angle high definition lens from Fujinon on standard defintion camcorder. This allows us the greatest flexibility in recording the two formats. The only difference is that for standard definition, we use Panasonic's SDX900 camcorder with DVCPRO 50 format. For high defintion, we use the Panasonic DVCPRO HD, HDC27 Varicam. It is simple as changing the lens between the two camcorders. If you TV is in the 50-60" size, then high definition acquisition is strongly recommended. If your TV is less than 50", then standard definition is a much more cost effective way.

A2:) To fully maximize your investment, you must use the correct equipment. For starter, your DVD player should have at least progressive scanning capability. Next, you must connect via component RGB (or DVI on newer players). Most DVD players will up convert the standard definition to high definition signal. In fact, virtually all of the blockbluster movies have progressive scanning encoded. It is usually labeled as "Enhanced for 16x9" TV. All this is is that they take full advantage of the progressive video technology during the telecine film transfer to DVD.

5) OK, you have considerable amount of quality equipment. Can you make a decent video?

A: Certainly. We started out with a $3K prosumer miniDV camcorder all the way to movie quality HD camcorder in less than 8 years. We strongly believe that a good looking video must have technical and artistic talent. Without strong mastery of the technical area, the video lacks the depth required to convey the story. An example of this is the picture is blurry because lack of quality lens and improper usage. On the other hand, the lack of artistic talent will not keep the viewers interested. For instance, if the video have no structure or emotional appeal, viewers will tune out and watch other programs. We have a huge DVD collection on all romantic and wedding related genres. Director Spect Le analyzes the style and technique from the masters. Our active involvement with independent films production and other high-end broadcast projects have helped us to maintain high standards in all areas of production. We are always improve our camera, composition, interviewing , shot selection, and romantic location techniques.

6) How do you approach wedding production?

A: Wedding production is extremely demanding. Unlike independent films, there is no second chance to get the shot. Furthermore, there's a very limited amount of time to get the shot. With those criterias in mind, we must use the proper equipment to get the job done right. We understand that quality will benefit both parties. Therefore, we spare no expense in getting the proper equipment for the job. Our camcorders are completely mobile. Tripod are extremely light weight. Lens are the finest money can buy. We study and model from the most successful news broadcaster and documentary filmmakers and apply our knowledge to your wedding. We also try to be discrete as much as possible. We do not bring crane, dolly, or large lights to your wedding. We feel that your wedding is a real life social event, not a place for us to make a movie out of your life.

7) Should I care about 24P technology?

A1: 24P technology ties the gap between real film and electronic cinema production. 24P is a cost-effective way to get the film look in video format. The term means 24 frame per second progressive. Without getting too technical, it is shot at 24 frames per second and using progressive scanning recording. If you want to have that milliion dollar look on your wedding, then 24P technogy will benefits you significantly. First, blockbluster films are shot at 24 fps. This frame rate has been around since the dawn of motion picture. Thanks to modern technology, our camcorders are perfectly capable of reproducing at 24 fps. In addition, it also features film like gamma curve to make it soft and film like. By comparision, at 30 frame per second shooting, you will get that traditional look of real life event. The best example of this is live news and movies. You will see that the news have a real-life quality whereas in movies, it has a different look. You have a choice to shoot in 24 fps or regular 30 fps. If you do not have a preference, we will shoot the appropriate frame rate to fit the style. We generally prefer to shoot at 24P because it has a timeless quality to the picture.

A2: This technology is also found on prosumer level camcorder such as the Canon XL2 and Panasonic DVX100A. Without proper usage, in-depth training and deep technical knowledge, it looks jerky and annoying to the eyes. Rest assure that your final DVD will not have this problem. We know how to do it the correct way.

8) Is videography a misleading term to describe your service?

Unfortunately this is the most misleading label about us. Videography is generally associated with live news events. Cinematography, on the other hand, is what TSPECT Productions is all about. The artisty, careful attention to composition/lighting/framing, and real cine-style production equipment sets us apart from other videographers.

9) What type of editing system and workflow do you use?

Sorry, we are a public company and can only disclose a limited portion. The type of camera and lens used is the most we can reveal. In addition, many of our proprietary configurations are currently are patent pending. It's a trade secret. However, rest assure that only the latest and most advanced setup are used. This means that your final DVD video will look at its best.