Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
How much video footage can I put on a DVD?
While the technology will allow for many hours of footage on a single DVD, we do not recommend putting more than 120 minutes of video on a DVD. The more video that's recorded to a DVD, the lower the quality (bit rate) will be. If these were our home movies, we'd want to record them at the highest bit rate possible - which means less than 60 minutes of video on a DVD.
How long does the conversion to DVD take?
It will depend on the type of format conversion and the size of your order. A conservative estimate for a small number of VHS, VHS-C, S-VHS, Digital8, Video8, 8mm, Hi8 and MiniDV tapes to DVD would typically require 2 weeks. Conversion of other formats are a bit more involved and will typically require 3-4 weeks. If you have a large number of videotapes to convert, this could also impact the amount of time required. If you have specific turnaround requirements, please check with us regarding rush order availability before sending us your order.
Will the DVD be better video quality than the original tape?
No. The DVD will match the video quality of your tape as it is today. While the video quality is not improved, it will not degrade over time like a tape will.
Will I be charged if there's nothing on the video tape?
No, we will not charge you for blank tapes. You will also, not receive a "partial" discount if most of the tape is blank. In other words, the same conversion fee applies whether the tape has 5 minutes or 2 hours of useful video footage on it.
Can you convert PAL (tapes made overseas) videotapes into DVD?
Sorry, the short answer is no. We do not currently offer this ability.
Additional info: In North America and some other parts of the world, we generally use a broadcast video format called NTSC (more info). In Europe and Asia they generally use a format called PAL (more info) or SECAM (more info). For the most part, you can not play PAL or SECAM tapes on a video player that is NTSC.
Will the DVD be in stereo?
If the audio of your original tape was in stereo, the DVD will also be in stereo.
Is video editing included in the price?
No - not really. For no additional charge, we will do simple trimming of the start and end points of the video being converted so excess blank space at the beginning and end of the tape will not be on the final DVD. However, we do not include more complex video editing in the package pricing model. For example, what we won't do as part of the standard package price is edit out sections of video or shuffle the order of video sections.
We can provide the additional service of custom video editing - such as editing out sections or shuffling the order of the video. This type of editing is handled on a case-by-case basis; we basically charge per hour with a one hour minimum. If desired, we can provide a quote before sending us your order. Simply contact us if you have a special request or need a quote.
Can I customize my DVD case and label with a still photo or video still capture?
Yes, absolutely. One of the biggest advantages of choosing Shoebox Memories is the lengths we will go to customize the DVD for you. We work very hard to try and meet the requests and needs of our clients. Please be sure to note them on your order form, or contact us to discuss what you had in mind. There is no additional charge for this personlized service. Just ask for it! :-)
What if I don't want to customize my DVD case and label?
If you don't have a preference or don't specify what the DVD case and label should look like, we will use one of our pre-defined templates. If your DVD is of one particular subject (for example a wedding) we will likely choose an event-themed template to use. By not specifying anything, you're letting us use our discretion and experience.
Often our customers aren't quite sure what's on the videotapes and/or a mixture of events are on the tapes. In those cases, we typically take a "collage" approach to the design. This offers a generic design, but also gives you the benefit of seeing what's on the DVD at a glance.
Can I put several videotapes together on to a single DVD?
Yes, absolutely. Our pricing for this is simple - each additional tape that you wish to add to the DVD simply adds a small amount (currently $10 per additional tape) to the overall DVD cost. For example, if you want to combine 3 VHS tapes onto a single DVD, you would pay:
$29.95 + $10.00 + $10.00 = $49.95
In addition, if you have other particular requests or needs in mind, please don't hesitate to contact us.
Can I order several copies of the DVD to send to friends and family?
Yes. Additional copies of the DVD may be requested when the initial DVD order is placed, or anytime within 3 months after the order is completed. For security and confidentiality reasons, we require the original purchaser to make the requests for any additional copies of the DVD. Additional copies may be sent to relatives directly if desired, for only $5.00 per address we send to. Please download and use this order form or contact us. If shipping is not required, there is of course no charge for it.