Q. Why should I use Mandarin?
A. We do not make promises we cannot keep, nor do we offer services we cannot deliver. It is our business to help your business succeed. We know that you expect the best from your video production, which is why we spend time understanding your requirements and working closely with you from concept through to the finished product. A satisfied customer is our greatest marketing tool and we pride ourselves on building solid relationships with our clients. You have certain expectations of your video and we aim to exceed these. It is vital to us that we accurately translate your requirements onto film, so that the finished product has the desired effect upon your target audience and achieves the results you anticipate. Above all, we listen to you.

 

Q. How long will it take to make the video?
A. The timescale obviously depend on the complexity of the project, the client's needs, the length of the video, whether filming takes place in multiple locations, whether the shoot involves certain weather conditions, how many re-takes are needed, whether sophisticated graphics and special effects are required, how many people are involved in the approval process and so on. However, we are used to working to specified deadlines.

 

Q. Who writes the script?
A. You may want to write the script yourself, or use one of our experienced writers here at Mandarin. Alternatively, we can collaborate with you on a script. Whatever you choice, we do encourage you to be actively involved in the scriptwriting process.

 

Q. How is the cost determined?
A. The cost is determined by the factors listed below: " Length and pacing of video " Scriptwriting " Complexity of the project " Filming locations - travel and subsistence " Fees involved in using private or public locations " Use of professional actors, presenters and voice over artists " Use of graphics, animation or other special effects "Use of music" Post production process " Format of Video However, if we are shooting for one day and editing for one day for web streaming, this reduces the costs. We always work to keep your costs down.

 

Q. Do you have adequate insurance cover?
A. Yes. We have all the relevant insurance documents, which we take with us on all shoots and which you are welcome to view.

 

Q. What stages are involved in the production process?
A. Four main stages are involved in the production process: " Pre-Production/Developing your idea " Scriptwriting " Production " Post Production For further information on the production process, please visit the Video Production page

 

Q. What geographical areas do you cover?
A. We cover the whole of the UK and abroad.

 

Q. Can I/we request changes to the video?
A. Yes. There will be a series of meetings during the editing stage to discuss the final edit. It is during these meetings that you will have the opportunity to suggest amendments to the video.

 

Q. Can I/we be present during the filming process?
A. In some circumstances it may be necessary for you to be present. In others it may not be convenient, because of the location, the day or other constraints. However, this is your video, so we would welcome your involvement where possible.

 

Q. Can I/we use our own models, voice over artists and actors?
A. If you would like to use someone who is adept at acting or speaking clearly, then please feel free to suggest them. Obviously, our aim is to produce a professional video, which is why we source acting, singing and voice over talent from professional agencies.

 

Q. We'd like one of our managers/directors to deliver a message/talk about our products on the video. Is this possible?
A. Yes. Where necessary, we can advise on presentation, body language, pitch and delivery of the message.

 

Q. Can we shoot our own video and then ask you to edit it?
A. Yes. We offer full editing facilities and DVD duplication.

 

Q. Will I/we be charged royalties on any music that is used in the video?
A. Our aim is to minimize costs by using royalty free music, for a one-off fee, that is available through music libraries, music production companies and other sources of royalty free music.

 

Q. Do you have a customer satisfaction or refund policy?
A. The reason why we involve you throughout the production process is to ensure that we deliver a final product that meets with your total satisfaction. You have the option of requesting changes to the footage during the post-production phase. We then require your approval of the edited programme before we deliver the final product to you.

 

Q. I/We have a limited budget. What is the most economical type of video to produce?

A. We often work under tight budgets and pride ourselves on creating an innovative video that produces the desired results within your budget and timescale.

 

Q. If I/we have to cancel the job halfway through due to unforeseen circumstances, what financial penalties will there be?
A. We do appreciate that certain situations cannot always be predicted. Nevertheless, in the event of cancellation, we will have to charge you for the work carried out up to the point of cancellation. However, we will keep on file any portion of the video that has already been filmed should you wish to continue with the project at a future date.