FAQ

Who edits the GradDoc, people or AI?

We decided very early on that humans would be the only ones to edit our GradDocs. Even though AI could help our company scale faster and be cheaper, we would end up losing the most important element of a great film—heart.

As impressive and important as AI computing tools have become, we believe strongly that machines aren't the best way to tell human stories.

So we start with real people with a heart for building others up. Then train them to be masters at our editing techniques so they can use their God-given empathy and passion to create these films to help graduates and families come together.

On top of that, every video is finalized by co-founder, Chris Spoerl. Chris has been a master level, professional editor for 20 years. Creating documentary content for families along with CBS Sports MaxPreps, The National Guard, The Marines, Old Spice, Reebok, Black Rifle Coffee Company, & St. Jude Children's Hospital.

Should I film horizontal or vertical?

We feel horizontal is best. This is because it allows you to play it back on your horizontal TV's during your open house or anytime as a family.

Vertical can be viewed well on social media like facebook, but doesn't view well on a TV screen. We recommend once you decide, to stick with that method so the final video flows best and doesn't jump back and forth from horizontal to vertical.

How much would it cost to hire a videographer to film?

Unfortunately, hiring a professional videographer is not cheap. The data above from Fash.com is from a very small market, and so depending on where you live throughout the country, the price will certainly only go up.

So, if you were to schedule a videographer to come to your home for even a few hours the price gets very high. Then there are editing costs.

The reason for this is a videographer brings a lot of very expensive and specialized gear and knowledge, and must cover those expenses into their rate.

With Graduation Films' business model we are able to deliver an excellent GradDoc at a low cost by partnering with parents to film with their already very capable HD/4K smart phones. We believe the Interview Kit's phone microphone and easy-to-follow guides make gathering interviews simple and fun.

Can GraduationFilms.com film the graduation & interviews?

We are an editing company that offers a GradDoc + Interview Kit for an easy and convenient process.

We do have professional videographers, and if you'd like this type of service, we do recommend our parent company New Shores Media for any full-production needs if you're in the Northern Indiana area.

Can I just use my phone's normal microphone?

You certainly can use the microphone that comes with your phone for recording, but we include the microphone in the Interview Kit for best results.

When you use your phone's on-board microphone you often end up with much more background noise and echos in your interview.

Watch the video below to see the difference, with and without the Interview Kit microphone.

How long will you keep the project files?

We will keep your final GradDoc for up to 1 year before removing from our back-ups. We recommend downloading and storing your GradDoc as soon as it is delivered.

Can multiple people record interviews, or just one person record?

Yes, you can decide to have multiple people recording the interviews if preferred, because you will be in charge of giving trusted persons the secured DropBox link. Or instead, designate one person to do all the interviews and uploading, whatever you prefer.

What if the person I interview isn't looking at the camera?

It's best not to point this out to them, as some people are camera shy (and that's ok), but they care and love your graduate, so it is still a wonderful clip to look back and include in your GradDoc.

What if my Interviewee messes up several times during my recording?

We can edit out any mistakes, so no need to worry about this. If the Interviewee asks to start over, simply start a new recording. If not, just keep recording and we will do the editing for you!

What happens if I accidentally include an Interview that I do not want in my GradDoc?

If the upload link has expired, simply email us at help@graduationfilms.com with your upload link info and we will take note of your request to remove anything you do not want.

Alternately, if the upload link has not expired, you can delete any unwanted videos on your own. We will not begin the editing process until after the last date listed on the GradDoc chart on the Order Page to give individuals plenty of time to make changes before the deadline.

I want to include a family member that is out of state or unable to travel in my GradDoc-how do I do this?

We can arrange a way to get them a microphone if you let us know at help@graduationfilms.com, or simply have them record themselves without a microphone. The audio will not sound like the others, but it is still an encouraging word that will be cherished by your graduate, and worthy of being included in the GradDoc. They can send their video to the responsible party with the upload link, or you can share the password so they can upload their video themselves.

Why do I need an Interview Kit?

The Kit is to help parents and family make the process of gathering interviews as easy and as fun as possible, because this GradDoc will be a cherished keepsake. We want to help alleviate stress that comes with senior year, not create it. So we designed the Interview Kit with all the necessities for your graduate's documentary.

What if my microphone doesn't work with my Interview Kit purchase?

We test every mic before shipping to you to ensure best results. However, if one slips through the cracks, we ask that you return the non-working microphone and we will order a new one for you, free of charge, and get this delivered asap.

When you order the GradDoc, we ask the model of your phone to ensure you get the proper port/plug.

What if I see a mistake after receiving my GradDoc?

If you see something wrong in the video or do not like something, please let us know! We ask that you include any changes you'd like all at once to: help@graduationfilms.com so we can get it returned asap.

We will allow one edit after you receive the final GradDoc. Anything after this, you can request to have the raw footage up to one year if you'd like anything adjusted or changed.

Can I preorder a GradDoc a year in advance?

It is not necessary to purchase a GradDoc one year in advance because we allow plenty of time when your child starts their senior year to purchase one. Please look at our Order page for deadlines and calendars so you can prepare your family and friends to participate in the GradDoc process.