Frequently Asked Questions

The Q & A Section

1. Making Movies

Q. What is the technical difference between a video and a slideshow?

A video is a movie, while a slideshow is a series of still pictures, usually with sound and a voiceover. Both are presented online in the Flash video format.

Q. How do I get a tourism video or slideshow made?

There will be a photographer and/or videographer near you! Alternatively, Online Tourism TV has such contacts throughout New Zealand — just ask us.

Q. What is the cost of having a video or slideshow made?

The cost of video production is variable, depending upon what you want or need. Slideshow production can be very inexpensive and just as effective — if you have digital images available, we can have a slideshow made very quickly, with sound and voiceover, for as little as $199 + GST — just ask us.

2. Technical Matters

Q. Can I add the video or slideshow to my own tourism website?

Yes! You retain ownership of your own video/slideshow, and you may use it anywhere you wish.

Q. Can you edit my DVD or add new footage?

Editing can only be done offline by production companies. We have partner companies who can help you with this if required. We can easily remove one video to replace it with another, at no additional cost.

Q. How should we supply you with our tourism product video/s?

We are able to accept most common video formats, e.g. MPEG-4, AVI, Windows Media Video, Flash Video, Ogg Theora, etc. Please supply on a disc or flash drive — they may be too large to transmit in a single email.

Q. What online video formats can you deliver?

We use Flash, which is the current de facto standard and caters for 90% of the industry. We can convert most other formats into Flash.

Q. To make us a slideshow, what do you need to get it started?

All we need is the digital images you want to use — up to around 25 maximum. Remember you are talking to potential customers, so they should be attractive and high quality. These images should be high resolution, supplied as JPEGs or PNGs on a disc or flash drive.

Q. What is the maximum file size for my video?

20 MB — we recommend short, sharp videos, which retain the viewer's attention.

3. General

Q. Who owns my video file?

You! Our view is that you paid for it, so it is yours!

Q. Can I access my listing stats?

Yes. Each user is able to see the number of visitors on their own listing. You can also see how many times your random thumbnail shows on the main screen.

Q. Can I use a production company of my choice to make my movie or slide show for our Online Tourism TV listing?

Absolutely!

Q. Will you write the editorial content for us?

Yes, if you wish! Tell us what you want us to say, and we will write around 100 words at no cost, also using your brochure or website for guidance, and we'll make it attractive to the tourist. There is no charge for this service.

Q. Can I add my movie to my emails?

Yes — and you should. It is an easy process to have an automatic link added as part of your email signature. The process varies depending upon what email programme you are using, so call us for assistance.