What is the Shopflick Filmmakers Marketplace (SFM)?
- Our mission is to help our independent community sell more effectively with video. Video is the most effective sales tool for many sellers, but historically was limited to the few who could afford TV or got on QVC or HSN. Now, everyone watches online video, and Shopflick can help you use video in a way never before possible -- simply and easily. However, while many of you are creating great video on your own, but many others need help. That's where the SFM comes in: it matches you with qualified filmmakers to get great video at very low prices. To keep your cost at rock bottom, we take no profit from this; it is our service to the Shopflick community.
Who will shoot my videos?
- We have a database of qualified, pre-approved Filmmakers in your area. In a few months, Filmmakers will have stores on Shopflick at which you can see their work, see their feedback, message them and schedule a shoot. In the meantime, Shopflick will do all of that for you.
How do I schedule a shoot with my Filmmaker?
- Visit the Shopflick New Seller Center . From there, click on the Video Request Form This is a straightforward online application that gives us the information we need to match you with a Filmmaker. Once we have linked you and a Filmmaker, he/she will contact you via phone or email to schedule a shoot date and time, and to discuss any creative elements or video ideas you may have.
How much does it cost?
- The SFM uses a straightforward Rate Card to which our Filmmakers have pre-agreed. They typical price is $250; however, depending on the availability of filmmakers, location, and the Seller's desired Filmmaker rating, Shopflick video shoots range from $180- $300 (or more for custom requests).
Who, how and when do I pay for the videos?
- You pay Shopflick.com directly using Paypal , and Shopflick pays the Filmmaker when we have confirmed delivery. Payment must be received before the video shoot takes place. This process is the best way to assure the Filmmaker payment, while assuring you that the Filmmaker will not be paid unless he/she delivers.
How many videos do I get from an SFM Shoot?
- For the standard Shopflick Video Assignment (approx $250) you will receive One (90-120 Second) "Profile Video," and up to Six (45-90 Second) "Product Videos." You can get additional Product Videos for an additional $15 per video if you ask in advance. If you want to list more than 6 products and have product available, it is most time and cost effective to shoot the additional Product Videos during your initial Shopflick Shoot.
What is the difference between a "Profile Video" and "Product Videos?"
- The Profile Video is a single, 60-120 second video that plays in your Shopflick Store. This is a great "calling card" to introduce yourself to new customers and make a closer connection with existing customers. It uses video to create a personal connection between you/your business and your current and potential customers. The video should convey the your passion, enthusiasm and knowledge, offer some personal insights into what's behind what you do, as well give an overview of you products. Feel free to be creative (here are some examples) , but always make sure get across the key information your customers need and want to know.
- Product Videos play on product listing pages (where the next step is for a customer to purchase, save or share with their friends). Each one is about a single product or product group. They should provide viewers with all the key visual information they need to purchase -- how it works, fits, feels, etc.
Do I also need still images?
- Yes, this is very important! Shopflick users love the video, but detailed, hi-resolution images are critical for your customers to see and study your products. These images are uploaded and seen by users next to your video, giving them a great experience of both video and hi-res stills. Your Filmmaker will show up with a hi-resolution digital camera to take stills. However, many of you have your own quality cameras and enjoy taking well lit, detailed photos, so we encourage you to take your own as well and select those that are the best.
How should I best prepare for a shoot?
- Preparing before the shoot is essential! Here are some simple but effective things you should do ahead of time:
- Be prepared to use (for example wear, demo) the product; it really helps customers to see it in action. If possible, bring in a model; it doesn't have to be a pro! Friends, relatives, staff and other "real people" can get a bit of glam and will work just as well
- Prepare your store or location for shooting ahead of time: clean up, prep materials, etc.
- Prepare the products to be shot (e.g. clean, iron, prep, hang, organize, put in fresh batteries, take off price tags, etc.
- Review our Suggested Interview Questions on pages 18-20 and become familiar with what you want to say.
How long does a shoot take?
- A shoot can take anywhere between 1-3 hours, depending on how prepared you are, how many products you want to shoot, the complexity of the products and the location. The more work you do before, the easier, better and shorter the shoot will be.
Where should the video be shot?
- Shoot where you feel comfortable, where you can best convey the feeling for you and your products and where there is adequate space, light and quiet. The SFM Filmmaker will have portable lights and sound gear, so they can be flexible. However, they may have good suggestions re light and sound, so this is good to discuss ahead of time. We like locations that relate to your product/store: your workspace, an art studio, or a storefront. But many of our most creative videos have inventive setting (the woods, against an interesting brick wall, etc. so we welcome your creativity and the creativity of our SFM Filmmakers.
Do I need a model or helper for the shoot?
- We know this: products are more engaging and relatable when they are interacting with people. If you are very outgoing, comfortable on camera and of the age and type likely to buy your product, you may not need a helper. However, for most, we strongly suggest having another person work with you on the shoot. It does not have to be a pro "model!" A friend, co-worker, sales assistant, relative, someone who was just walking by will do just fine. (Ok, get Heidi Klum if she's available.) This person can be very helpful when displaying the products, showing viewers how your product is worn, how it lies, moves, fits, feels, is used, etc. Also, many of you will be more comfortable talking with someone you know than with the Filmmaker, so it can make for a more natural video. It also adds an element of interest and increases the videos production value.
How many people will show up to my shoot?
- In most cases the Filmmaker will be working alone. He/She will set up the lights, the sound, and shoot the video themselves. As a result, it is essential you are prepared, familiar with the interview questions, and ready when the Filmmaker arrives. However, some Filmmakers will work with a colleague to provide an extra set of hands to hold microphones, get background video, etc. You should ask them how many will be showing up.
How does the editing process work after the shoot?
- You will have a chance to give the Filmmaker feedback before the final delivery and Shopflick releases payment to the Filmmaker. After the shoot, the Filmmaker will edit the videos. When they are ready, you will receive an email from Shopflick with links to view the videos, along with a Seller Notes Form with a questionnaire for your feedback. You have 3 business days (72 hours) to respond to this email with your notes; if we do not receive the Form, we will assume that you are happy with the videos and will progress accordingly.
What music can I use with the videos?
- All music featured on Shopflick videos must either be rights-free (meaning the owners of the song/recording have give permission for people to use the music), or we must have access to the rights and approval from the musician/songwriter for use in perpetuity. As a result, most popular songs you hear on the radio are not allowed (without consent). Self-made music is great but we strongly suggest keeping lyrics muted as it tends to take away from the video and be distracting.
How do I get final delivery of my videos and images?
- After the final versions are complete Shopflick will send you a link to the videos. You can save the videos to your computer directly from the links simply by holding down the "control" key while clicking on the link.
How do I get the video into my Shopflick store?
- Its as easy as uploading videos to YouTube! We have a simple Seller Manuals with simple step-by-step instructions on uploading video and creating a store. If you have trouble, contact our associate: Katrina.razavi at shopflick.com and she will help in any way she can.
How do I get more Product Videos later on?
- Once your Shopflick store is up and running, you may want to feature more videos of more products that you did not shoot at the initial shoot. You can schedule a second shoots (and subsequent shoots) in the same way you scheduled the initial video assignment -- fill out a Video Request Form and indicate this is a Second Shoot. The price for this shoot will be as provided on the Rate Card for initial shoots but assuming you do not need or want another Profile Video, you can shoot up to 9 new Product videos for the same price, and also additional Product Videos beyond 9 for $15 each.
What can I do with the videos?
- You have the permanent right to use your videos on Shopflick. You also have the right to post the videos anywhere on the web that takes the Shopflick media player/widget (same as YouTube), including on your own website and in your email newsletters, etc.
What can I not do with the videos?
- You cannot upload the video to YouTube or to other video-sharing sites. (Use Shopflick for this; it does the same thing.) This restriction is necessary for us to maintain the low prices and integrity of the system. (This does not apply to your own videos you upload to Shopflick.)
What if I need to cancel my video shoot?
- As long as you give at least 24 hours warning of a cancellation, you will not be charged for the shoot and can reschedule with the Filmmaker. But, if you simply don't show up without 24 hours notice, then you will be charged a "no show fee of $100."
How do I reschedule a Video shoot?
- Rescheduling should be done in conjunction with both Shopflick and the Filmmaker. You should get in contact with the Filmmaker and Shopflick the moment you know you are going to be unable to make the pre-scheduled date, and you should discuss other possible shoot dates and times. Once you have determined a reschedule date and time with the Filmmaker please let your Shopflick contact know. If you are having difficulty rescheduling, please contact Raul at Shopflick.com.
What do I do if the Filmmaker does not show up?
- We make every effort to find reliable, quality Filmmakers, but occasionally there is problem with a Filmmaker not showing up. First, send us an email at Raul at Shopflick.com. We will verify that you had a confirmed shoot. If so, we will not release payment to the Filmmaker, and give you the option of trying to reschedule, or try a different Filmmaker.
What if something is damaged while shooting:
- The Filmmakers are working with light, portable gear, so this is unlikely. Accidental mishaps should be covered by your general insurance. However, if you believe the Filmmaker was negligent, then please immediately send us an email at Raul at Shopflick.com and we will attempt to resolve the issue before paying the Filmmaker.
What if my videos do not show up, or showed up late?
- We make every effort to find reliable, qualified Filmmakers, but sometimes problems with delivery occur. You should be protected in that Shopflick will not release your payment to the Filmmaker until delivery is confirmed. We realize, however, that you still put in precious time into the shoot and that you are losing potential sales every day your videos are not up on Shopflick.
What if I don't like my videos?
- Filmmaking is inherently a subjective, artistic process. To maximize the chances that you will be satisfied with your videos, we have created an SFM with qualified Filmmakers and a Seller Feedback process. We have also given you a number of preparation steps that experience tells us will make a big difference. In addition, in a few months, you will be able to see the work SFM Filmmakers before you select them. However, if you end up dissatisfied with your videos, please send us an email and we will do our best to help.