FAQ
I started this page to answer basic questions about the services I offer, as well as a general information portal for anything I can think up!
What editing system do you use, and why do you prefer that one over other systems?
Most of my work in my home studio is based under Final Cut Pro, and other Apple software. I also utilize Adobe software, and other independent software resources to accomplish most of my projects. I can also work with Avid based systems (Adrenaline, Media Composer, Xpress, Symphony, etc), as well as Premiere Pro, Vegas, etc. The reason I choose Final Cut Pro over others is just a personal choice of cost savings and flexibility. FCP is not the be-all-end-all of editing choices out there, and I certainly do not endorse it over Avid, Premiere, or any other semi-capable NLE out there. The software is only the tool. So long as the medium that goes in is the same quality when it comes out, the software does not necessarily matter, it is what you DO with the software that matters.
How can I get a rate quote for a project?
For a rate quote, I would prefer that you fill out a rate quote request form by clicking here. If you need some general numbers and do not have a lot of information, please feel free to contact me and I will do my best. However, know that the actual estimates in either situation will have some flexibility depending on new information you may provide in the future…. so in other words, the more information you give me, the more accurate with the quote I can be.
Why do you only do work once a contract is in place?
A contract is a great way for both parties in the agreement to encourage mutual responsibility. I make sure that in all my contracts, it is not just guaranteeing that I will get paid, but it guarantees that I will not cancel, reschedule, change prices, or a litany of other instances in which a freelancer could take advantage of a potential employer. In other words, it keeps us both honest. Once in place, a contract ensures I get paid (so I can eat, thats important), and most of all it ensures that you get the product you signed up and paid me for. To me, that is the essence of a project, that the client is more than happy with the results.
Is your contract a bunch of legalese that I cannot understand?
My contract is a simple to understand form. However, that does not mean that every word will be crystal clear to every person. If you have any questions about a contract, I encourage clients to contact me right away, and we will change the section in question until we both fully understand the ramifications of the clause, and can both sign with ease and confidence. I, in no way want to blindside anyone with tricky wording. We will both be happy with the contract when we sign!
Are there any cases you will not work under a contract and/or is there a way we can work together without a contract?
I rarely work without a contract of some form in place. However, there are rare instances when a client is just really not comfortable signing a document. In this case, we discuss the project via email, and we come up with a list of the scope, budget, and timeframe for the project, including what is included and what is not in my rate. Once we come to an agreement, I send an email containing everything we have gone over, and simply ask that the person agree that those are the terms we will do a project. This is not technically a contract (it is however somewhat legally binding), but it ensures that anywhere down the road where we have difficulties we can refer to our original email. Also, I prefer that non-contract customers have a different payment schedule than contracted customers, as I am taking on more risk. This is usually a 50-75% of the budget gets sent to me up front, and the other 25-50% of the budget is billed on completion. Most non-contract clients are on a per-project rate anyways, so this just makes things simple. The percentage rate is to my discretion on the particular project, and is different every time.