How to prepare for your "video montage"

1. Picture & Video Selection - You have the freedom to use any size and shape photographs, including home videos.  Use photos ranging from 2 1/2x3 to 8x10, or only use a specific portion of a photograph (indicate the region to exclude).  Since we will be scanning the pictures they need to have all packaging removed.

2.  Picture Retrieval & Reconstruction - Some pictures may be on your computer, digital camera, VHS tape, CD, or old paper.  Digital Take retrieves / reconstructs photos from almost any source (additional charge for reconstructions and tape transfers).

3.  Sequence of pictures - Use a large area to lay out your pictures.  Be creative and try to keep the sequence interesting.  Once photos are in order, use sticky notes or a pencil (upper right corner on backside) to identify the sequence (A1,A2,A3,... B4,B5, B6...).  Protect your pictures by avoiding the use of markers & pens.

4. Length of Photo Montage - Each picture remains on the screen for approximately 4 seconds (15 pictures per minute).  Since you can use as many pictures as you would like, you determine the length of your video...

5. Music and Segment Titles - Arrange your pictures into groups of vacations, special events, or achievements. Use sheets of paper to place the name of each segment with its photos and what music (specific songs or type of music) to play over each segment (remember that there are 15 pictures per minute).  Also, be sure to include the tapes or CD's of each song requested, or choose from from our stock of royalty-free music.

5. Special Effects - Although special effects may seem to add "POW" to video, in our experience, they can sometimes reduce the high-quality look of the final product.  However, Digital Take does have state-of-the-art special effects upon your request.

7. Mailing Your Pictures - It is best to use multiple envelops to differentiate each group of pictures and music, and then put them into a small box or a heavy-duty envelop for mailing.  Additionally, for quality control purposes, please provide us a one-page summary of what was mailed, as well as, what songs and titles go with each segment.  Mail your material to:

Digital Take

1715 W. Weathersfield Way

Schaumburg, IL  60193

(847) 352-1225