Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is The Home Video Co.?
The Home Video Co. is a camcorder rental service where I personally deliver a fully loaded kit to your event. The camcorder gets passed around your guests throughout the day so they can capture candid, unscripted moments from their own perspective. You get all the raw footage plus a professionally edited highlight film delivered to you after your event.
How is it different from hiring a Videographer?
A traditional videographer captures your event from a professional standpoint. The Home Video Co. captures it from the inside. The footage is raw, real, and shot through the eyes of the people who love you most. Think guest reactions, behind the scenes moments, and all the in-between stuff that no professional camera is in the right place to catch.
Do I need experience with a camcorder?
Not at all! Every kit comes with a guide that walks through everything you need to know. The camcorder is simple and intuitive to use, and that is honestly part of the charm. Your guests do not need to be tech savvy to capture something beautiful.
What events is this available for?
The Home Video Co. is available for weddings, rehearsal dinners, birthday celebrations, baby and bridal showers, family reunions, anniversaries, and really any event worth remembering. If you have people you love gathering in one place, this is a great fit.
THE BASICS
THE RENTAL
What is included in the kit?
Every kit includes a camcorder, a pre-charged battery, an extra battery, an SD card, a charger, and a guide. Everything arrives ready to go so you do not have to worry about a thing.
What is the difference between 'the day' and 'the weekender'?
The Day is a one-day rental, perfect for a single event like a wedding or birthday party. The Weekender is a three-day rental spanning usually Thursday through Saturday or Friday through Sunday, ideal for couples who want coverage across their rehearsal dinner, wedding day, and beyond. The Weekender also includes a longer edited highlight film and a 30-second social media content clip.
What are the drop-off and pick-up hours?
Drop-off is available no earlier than 9:00 AM and pick-up is no later than 11:00 PM. For The Weekender, drop-off is on your first day and pick-up is on your last day within those same windows. If you need something outside of those hours, just reach out and we can see what we can work out.
Does drop-off and pick-up have to be at the same location?
Nope! Drop-off and pick-up can be at completely different locations. Just let me know both addresses when you fill out your client questionnaire and I will take care of the rest.
Is there a travel fee?
Drop-off and pick-up are complimentary for locations within 90 minutes of Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio. For locations beyond that, a travel fee of $1.00 per mile applies per trip. Any travel fees will always be communicated to you before booking so there are no surprises.
THE FOOTAGE
What happens to our footage after the event?
Once I pick up the kit I go through all of the footage, organize your raw files, and get to work on your edited highlight film. Everything is completed within 4 to 6 weeks of pick-up and then sent out for delivery via mail. You receive all of the raw footage plus your finished highlight film and a USB keepsake.
What if the SD card corrupts or the footage is lost?
Technology is imperfect and while it is rare, it can happen. In the event of SD card failure I will make every reasonable effort to recover your footage at no additional cost. I genuinely care about your experience and will do everything I can to help. That said, recovery cannot be guaranteed, which is why I always recommend handling the camcorder with care.
Can I request specific songs for editing?
Your highlight film will be edited in my creative style using instrumental music selected at my discretion. Client input and preferences are always welcome and I am happy to consider them, but I retain full creative control over the final edit.
Can I use the footage for social media?
Absolutely! You are welcome to share your footage and highlight film on your personal social media pages. A tag or shoutout is always so appreciated but never required. The Weekender package also includes a 30-second social media clip specifically edited for Instagram and TikTok.
BOOKING
How do I book?
Head to the booking link, select your package, and choose your date. I will review your inquiry and confirm availability. Once confirmed you will receive your contract and invoice. Your date is officially locked in once both the signed contract and full payment have been received.
What is the cancellation policy?
50% of your total payment is non-refundable at the time of booking. If you cancel more than 30 days before your event the remaining 50% may be refunded. Cancellations within 30 days of the event are non-refundable. Please review the full contract for complete details.
Do you service areas outside of Northeast Ohio?
I am based in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio and serve the greater Northeast Ohio area. Drop-off and pick-up are complimentary within 90 minutes of Cuyahoga Falls. Locations beyond that are welcome with a travel fee applied. Reach out if you are unsure whether your location is covered and I will be happy to check!
Still have questions?
I would love to hear from you. Reach out and I will get back to you as soon as possible.