Petra Daher Productions

Let Petra Productions make you a mini-documentary for your website

2011-06-07T15:32:00.000-07:00

This is a grant funded mini-documentary that I made for Art Alley in Lansing, Michigan's historic Reo Town. I filmed various activities at the gallery over a two month period of time this past winter, and then encapsulated the footage into a 5 minute video. It was a pleasure working on this project. I love the spirit of the neighborhood and was surrounded by fun loving Lansing artists and community organizers.

Exciting News

2011-01-11T14:32:00.000-08:00

Aloha and Many Thanks to Su, from StarSunflower Studio for giving Petra Production's Blog a Stylish Blogger Award. I appreciate your support. What a great way to start the New Year!

Su and I met through Flicker, when she was creating a website for Dunegrass Music Festival. Petra Productions provided some photography for the website. I have found Flicker to be a great resource. Just this past year my page helped me get a few clients and I received feedback about my photographs from around the World! What fun!

To learn more about Su and her company StarSunflower Studio visit:

http://starsunflowerstudio.blogspot.com

To accept the award I have to do a few things including sharing Seven things about me: No problem, I love the number 7!

1. I love to travel. I never travel without a camera or two. ( Video and Photo) I’ve been creating travel diaries and photos essays about my adventures since I was a kid. This led to the creation of Tree Hugger Travel, a source for earth and cultural loving travelers on a budget. Check out the website, on it you will find videos, photos, travel tips, Seven Suggestions, and a Global Foot Print Calculator.

http://treehuggertravel.weebly.com

2. I just began playing the Ukulele and absolutely love it. I’m in a class with several of my friends and we formed a band called, Ben and the Ukulele Ladies! I have a Concert Ukulele and my favorite songs to play this week are Hallelujah, Wagon Wheel and Love is a Rose.

3. Petra Productions is a small business that I own and operate. I’ve been storytelling with cameras and words since I was 11. I have had many different types of jobs from community organizer, puppet maker, research assistant, video production teacher, social worker, and educational video producer. I’m proud that my work has helped support local groups, non-profits, artists and people like you. My dream is to find a producer/sponsorship to help me fund the Tree Hugger Travel Documentary Series for PBS. Check out the Tree Hugger travel Website for more information. Who knows what will happen next. Life is many things including a fun adventure!

4. I strive to live lightly on the Earth: I eat low on the food chain, garden, recycle, bicycle and create art out of up-cycled materials. I love being in nature. I would like to have a Tree House & live off the grid in 10 years.

5. I collect many things including: world music, my friends artwork, religious icons, teapots and clothes.

6. If you let me pick what’s for dinner I’d select something Indian, Lebanese, Thai or Japanese . . .

7. I began Blogging several years ago after I got laid off from my job teaching video production and World Cinema in the middle of a semester. I did not see that coming! My creative outlets, like Blogging, helped me transition into the next stage of my life! This former art instructor feels the need to say, Keep the Arts in Public Schools! Everyone benefits from taking time to be creative! Viva la Art!

I have two Blogs: this one, Petra Productions, a lens into my video, photography and new media business and my first Blog, Collector of Stories, A documentary makers media musings.

Check out my on-going list of notable documentary films:

http://petradaher.blogspot.com/search/label/documentary

The Stylish Blogger Award is a great way to network and share resources. I learn so much from my online creative community. My next task for accepting the award is to list 15 Blogs I find noteworthy. After much consideration these are the 15 blogs that I find helpful, creative, thoughtful and inspiring!

Congratulations folks you have also won the Stylish Blogger Award!

http://sheilamorley.wordpress.com

http://www.shopnotmadeinchina.com

http://www.shewhoeats.blogspot.com

http://www.dearhippie.com

http://ricothomasrico.com

http://www.bug.co.uk/blog

http://www.littleartshram.org/blog

http://www.craigtannercreative.com/lightdiary

http://down-in-a-rabbit-hole.blogspot.com

http://www.ecoearth.info.blog

http://kenstone.net

http://www.aphotoaday.org/blog

http://ukulelehunt.com/blog

http://blog.craftzine.com

http://blog.penelopetrunk.com

Rules for accepting this award are:

1. Thank and link back to the person who awarded it to you. Take all the time you need!

2. Share 7 things about yourself.

3. Pay it forward to 15 recently discovered great bloggers.

4. Contact those bloggers and tell them about their Blog Award!

Give Petra Production's Limited Edition Artwork for the Holidays!

2010-12-15T07:38:00.000-08:00

Procrastinators' Art Market-
Homemade works from Local Artists
12/19/2010 & 12/20/2010
Sunday 12-7 & Monday 12-6.
Rivendell Co-operative House
731 W. Genesee
Lansing, Michigan

Last minute shoppers avoid the stress of going to the Mall and support a local artist! Prices range to fit every budget!

The Event will feature:
Art Market, Open music jam, veggie appetizers & game playing

Featuring: Petra Productions- nature & graffiti photography, cards, magnets, collage...Abby Deneau Designs-ceramic sculpture...Everybody Reads Books & Stuff...Michael Crosby-ornaments, glass, sculpture...Cecilia Garcia-lovely holiday treats for gifts or a meal...Hira's Bead Bazaar-beaded jewelry with semi-precious stones & glass...Jeremy Algrim-ceramic & other mediums...Kathie Kuhn-Clay flowers, peace shirts, and macrame jewelry.

How to get there: 731 W. Genesee, Lansing, 48915
Right next to the Black Child and Family Institute, about 1 mile West of LCC

If you can't make it check out my online store :
http://www.petradaher.com/store.html

May the spirit of the season fill you with wonder.
Happy New Year !

The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even touched. They must be felt with the heart. Wishing you happiness.
Helen Keller

Come, woo me, woo me, for now I am in a holiday humor, and like enough to consent.
William Shakespeare

Please visit Petra Production's New Website and Online Store

2010-11-08T06:50:00.000-08:00

Petra Daher Production's has a new Web site and Web store please visit it and tell me what you think. I was excited to use Weebly to create two new Web sites in the past month.

Weebly is an online, free widget-based Web site creator, funded by micro-seed fund Y Combinator. Weebly also provides the option to create a blog or upgrade to Weebly Pro, for even more features, like a video and audio player and password protected pages. Weebly Pro is still a bargain!

I heard about Weebly during a great discussion on Linked -In. One of the groups I belong to, Visual Artists and their Advocates, debated the best way to make an affordable website for an Artist and in my opinion Weebly stood out as the winner. I found the platform to be easy to use, well supported and the group is open to suggestions.

Petra Production's Website will allow you to view portfolios of my video, documentary and photography work, request an estimate or place an order.

My web store will allow you to purchase my limited edition fine art photography or place a special order for Photography, Greeting Cards and eventually Documentaries and Educational video. Please visit:

www.PetraDaher.com

I got so excited by Weebly that I also created a website for one of my projects, Tree Hugger Travel. Tree Hugger Travel is a source for travelers. The website, photographs, Podcasts and documentaries we create are an entertaining and informative resource for the busy professional, retiree or student, who when time permits, transforms into a trailblazer.

We will add new articles, videos and photos each month. Subscribe to Tree Hugger Travel and become a part of the Tree Hugger Travel Community. Weebly offers the ability to create a forum on your website. Please take part in the Tree Hugger Travel forum on our site. We are discussing permaculture and low impact travel techniques. Visit today and share the link with a travel loving, tree hugging friend!

http://treehuggertravel.weebly.com

I hope you find this information helpful thanks for visiting!

Stock Footage by Petra Daher Productions

2010-04-21T12:59:00.000-07:00

Many of you know one of my favorite things to do is to go on travel adventures with my cameras. I am an archivist and documentary maker at heart and have an extensive collection of video footage and photo archives to prove it. My collection contains a little bit of everything: Nature, Culture, Subculture, Activism, Action, Activities.

I'm now partnering with Pond5 the world's largest Collection of Royalty Stock Footage. Pond5 is a place to buy and sell royalty free stock footage, stock video, production music and sound effects.

Check out my Video Portfolio!

Search Stock Video by Petra Daher

View Petra Daher's Artist Profile on Pond5

Invest in Internet Video for your Website

2009-09-10T11:46:00.000-07:00

Recent surveys show what we already know, more than four out of five Internet users will watch online video ads. Many people now turn to the World Wide Web to research, locate and find services. Just Google it!

Kristen Edelhauser, from Entrepreneur Magazine, reported that, “The advertising of the future is going online--and going local. This hot trend is growing rapidly and shows no signs of letting up. In fact, according to a report by Borrell Associates, local online advertising is expected to grow by 31 percent this year, hitting $7.7 billion. The report also predicts local paid search will skyrocket by 86 percent this year, up to $1.8 billion. Local e-mail marketing will experience growth of about 54 percent, reaching $233 million.”

TurnHere Internet Video posted these powerful video statistics

Online video drives strong business profile performance:

Listing profiles with a video experience 32% more clicks than a profile without video
Listing profiles with a video experience a 16% increase in calls over a profile without video
81% of videos are watched to completion
78% of survey respondents agreed that online video ads provide as good as, if not more of, an opportunity to learn about an advertiser than TV.
Over 50% of DVR users fast-forward through commercials while watching prime-time shows3.

Video statistics show the influence of online video ads:

80% of web users will watch video at least once a month.
30% visited the advertiser’s physical store.
55% visited the advertiser’s Web site after viewing the video.
24% made a purchase after viewing the video.

Video Works By:

Making a personal connection with buyers, customers and prospects
Building trust and showcasing expertise during the decision-making process
Delivering a powerful message in an authentic manner
Delivering key messages with lasting impact
Showing the world business attributes with television-quality production

Promotional videos makes a lasting impact!

Petra Daher Productions is proud to be an Elite Turn Here Filmmaker. Turn Here Internet Video is a progressive and community minded company that strives to support small businesses. Please send me an e-mail if you would like to learn more about special offers on Internet video through the Turn Here Referral Program.

If you are ready to invest in a video for your website, we are here to help! Petra Daher Productions can create affordable Internet video for your business, organization or non-profit.

Here is an example of a business portfolio that we produced for a small businesses.

Petra is on YouTube

2007-05-16T16:52:00.000-07:00

YouTube is an online community that allows people to share and view video footage over the internet. These videos are sometimes called podcasts. The video clips range from silly to serious, this medium is being used to promote everything from politics to entertainment.

I have a YouTube Director's Channel, so please visit it and view some of my podcasts. Using video on your web site is a powerful and popular way to draw attention to your message. To view my channel please view the video clips below, or go to: http://youtube.com/PetraDaher

Subscribe to my channel and get my latest videos e-mailed right to your mailbox. Take part in the podcast revolution!

What is a Podcast?
"A podcast is a digital media file, or a series of such files, that is distributed over the Internet using syndication feeds for playback on portable media players and personal computers. A podcast is a specific type of webcast which, like 'radio', can mean either the content itself or the method by which it is syndicated; the latter is also termed podcasting. The host or author of a podcast is often called a podcaster. The term "podcast" is a portmanteau of the name of Apple's portable music player, the iPod, and broadcast[1]; a "pod" refers to a container of some sort, and "cast" to the idea of broadcasting.
In other words, a podcast is a collection of files (usually audio and video) residing at a unique web feed address. People can "subscribe" to this feed by submitting the feed address to an aggregator (like iTunes). When new "episodes" become available in the podcast they will be automatically downloaded to that users computer. Unlike radio, or streaming content on the web podcasts are not real-time. There is no live broadcast of content, the material is pre-recorded and users can check out the material at their leisure, offline.Though podcasters' web sites may also offer direct download or streaming of their content, a podcast is distinguished from other digital media formats by its ability to be syndicated, subscribed to, and downloaded automatically, using an aggregator or feed reader capable of reading feed formats such as RSS or Atom."
Definition from Wikipedia

What is Video Streaming?
"Streaming video is a sequence of "moving images" that are sent in compressed form over the Internet and displayed by the viewer as they arrive. Streaming media is streaming video with sound. With streaming video or streaming media, a Web user does not have to wait to download a large file before seeing the video or hearing the sound. Instead, the media is sent in a continuous stream and is played as it arrives. The user needs a player, which is a special program that uncompresses and sends video data to the display and audio data to speakers. A player can be either an integral part of a browser or downloaded from the software maker's Web site."
Definition from Whatis.com

People can post comments on my channel, or e-mail me directly. I would love to hear what you think!

Do you want to be a part of the video revolution? YouTube now offers non profit groups a free video channel on YouTube to promote their mission. If interested go to the YouTube web site to sign up. This is an incredible exposure opportunity for any organization.

The Odds are Good and the Goods are Odd

2007-02-22T12:46:00.000-08:00

Director’s Statement
By M. Petra Daher

I visited Alaska for seventeen days in June of 2003, with a loose plan and a brand new video camera. I thought it would be a perfect opportunity to get to know my latest tool. It was the summer after 911 and my heart was still broken from all that had happened. It was the summer that I was going to visit my Grandparent’s homeland Lebanon, for the very first time. I had hoped to make a documentary about taking my elderly Lebanese American aunties back to visit their family and home country.

Because of travel restrictions and fear, that trip was postponed. I decided to replace one dream with another, substituting a Lebanese home coming for an Alaskan adventure. I figured the perfect remedy for the stress of the world events was immense amounts of undisturbed nature. I traveled from Denali National Park to Homer and back again. The title for the travelogue came from a line I first heard at a dinner theater’s musical performance that I attended outside of Denali National Park. It was about the History of Alaska. “The Odds are Good and the Goods are Odd,” was one of the many sayings that I heard often while I was there.

I independently produced this travelogue about south central Alaska. I was traveling light and on a small budget. I shot all of the footage hand held without a tripod. I interviewed all of the people on the spot with one take. All interviews and narration was done using the boom microphone on the camera. I directed and edited the project using a Sony VX2000 Mini DV Camera, a G5Powermac Computer and Final Cut Pro editing software. I was teaching at the time and it was wonderful to jump back into production. I wanted to explore what level of quality could be produced with minimal equipment and crew. This product is an example of a video revolution occurring thanks to affordable and portable video cameras and editing software that can be run on a home computer.

I found the people of Alaska to be generous and kind. People I barely knew quickly became friends and provided food, shelter, hospitality and sometimes, even rides. During my journey I collected interviews from 14 random people that I spoke with along the way. I had a few interview questions developed and improvised the rest as we talked. I developed the narration after shooting and logging all of the interviews. I was charmed that so many of them were willing to share with me what was meaningful to them. They offered valuable travel tips, sharing their favorite places and things to do. Many of them I spoke with came from somewhere else, in search of something new. They all longed for something different then what the lower 48 had to offer.

I felt very fortunate to be able to make a travelogue about my trip to Alaska. A passion for travel adventures is a family tradition. I grew up watching travelogues about all corners of the world and always longed to make one. Visiting Alaska changed me as a person. Experiencing the scope and magnitude of the natural beauty and wildlife was an event that I won’t soon forget. Capturing the experience on digital videotape is the best souvenir that I could hope for. The Alaskan people where equally fascinating. They are pioneers and survivors in the truest sense of the word. It was an honor to meet them. Alaskans are tough, persevering, passionate, freedom loving adventurers. Alaska still represents the last frontier. The Land of the Midnight Sun represents new possibilities and all that is wild.

I briefly experienced what it feels like to live in the wild, constantly aware of the power of the untamed territory. It is a new experience to constantly be preoccupied with not startling a bear or even more dangerous, a moose. Where else can you hear glaciers snap and crackle, feel absolutely small, and see what North America may have looked like before over development came in the name of progress.

This film is a celebration of the people, culture and natural beauty that is Alaska. I hope that what we all love about Alaska does not get taken for granted. Hopefully personal narratives about the Alaskan experience, like this documentary, will help other American’s realize the importance of preserving the uniqueness of the state. I hope that we Americans protect these precious resources, this last American wilderness, by demanding strong environmental policies so that future generations can share in the experience and learning.

Courage Under Fire: Exposing the Occupation

2007-02-22T12:44:00.000-08:00

Rachel Corrie

Director’s Statement
By M. Petra Daher

“Courage Under Fire: Exposing the Occupation,” is a documentary about the International Solidarity Movement, (ISM), a movement calling on international volunteers to support the Palestian Nonviolence Movement. The documentary introduces us to the group’s Jewish co-founder and spokesperson, Adam Shapiro. He shares what inspired a Jewish American from New York City to become the co-founder of the Palestian Nonviolence Movement. We also meet Brian Avery, an American ISM volunteer, who was shot by the Israeli Military while serving as a human rights observer. He shares what he has learned from the experience and what happened the day of his shooting. And perhaps the most touching interviews come from Rachel Corrie’s grieving parents. They reflect on the lessons that their daughter taught them and call for an independent investigation of their daughter’s death.

Adam Shapiro, ISM Spokesperson

The Documentary, “Courage Under Fire: Exposing the Occupation,” is dedicated to ISM volunteer, Rachel Corrie, who was killed by a bulldozer while trying to protect a Palestinian Family’s home from being demolished in 2003. Sadly, this idealistic American college student fell victim to the human rights violations and violence that she was trying to help expose. It was her story that brought attention to the Palestian Non-Violence Movement. The slaying of a beautiful young American activist was able to command the world media’s attention in a way that a Palestian activist never could.

In January of 2004, members of the International Solidarity Movement, including the parents of slain activist Rachel Corrie, were at Michigan State University with members of the Michigan Peace Team for an in-service program on their mission and current activities. The groups where also trying to rally support for an independent investigation of the death of Rachel. It was at that event that the interviews for this documentary were compiled. Meeting these people was both inspiring and heartbreaking. It gave me the opportunity to speak first hand with activists on the front line of a horrible and often times misunderstood conflict. The interviews that I compiled reveal courage and insight into the complexities of the Israeli/ Palestinian crisis.

As a documentary maker, I am inspired to share the stories of everyday heroes who quietly work to give a voice to the powerless. I have always had great respect for the dangerous and very important work of human rights activists. The basic concept being that international volunteers travel to troubled spots throughout the world and serve as witnesses to human rights violations. This grassroots movement has proven to be an effective way to call attention to human rights abuses that might otherwise be ignored, as well as modeling nonviolent conflict resolution strategies. These non-violence strategies are based on the teachings of Gandhi and Reverend Martin Luther King. The International Solidarity Movement was successfully helping to promote non-violent approaches to conflict in the region. However, as this documentary highlights, peace team members began to get hurt and even killed, further stressing the need for worldwide criticism of human rights violations in the area.

This video work is an act of media activism. I seek to bring about awareness of topics overlooked or marginalized by mainstream media. I believe in the power of words and storytelling to heal. I hope that the viewer is both informed and inspired by the story and that it promotes dialogue and more questions. I made this film as a contribution to the Michigan Peace Team efforts. The film’s premiere provided the centerpiece for a successful fundraiser for Peace Team, and it is now used as a training tool for Peace Team volunteers heading off to do work in various troubled areas of the world.

What is Digital Video?

2006-07-11T11:31:00.000-07:00

Digital Video 101

What is the DV format?

Although "DV" technically stands for "Digital Video", DV normally refers to a specific video format. Its specifications include a 5:1 signal compression ratio, a 4:1:1 color sampling ratio, 720 x 480 pixel resolution, 25 megabits-per-second (Mbps) data rate and a general overall picture quality quite similar to BetacamSP.

What about DVCAM and DVCPRO? DV (sometimes called MiniDV to help differentiate it), Sony DVCAM and Panasonic DVCPRO all have the same picture quality, as they all use the same DV video signal format. DVCAM and DVCPRO tapes are larger, can hold longer tape lengths and move faster through the camera during recording (which renders the tape less susceptible to noticeable playback errors from wear-and-tear damage). Because the DVCAM and DVCPRO formats are targeted at more professional users, these cameras typically sport better optics and accessories (and a higher price tag) than most MiniDV-format cameras.

What's the major advantage of shooting in DV? Not only does DV look good, it's also completely digital. This feature allows you to edit your footage (either deck-to-deck or by using a nonlinear video editing workstation) without any loss in picture quality. Typically, analog formats such as VHS and Hi-8 lose significant quality after repeated transfers/duplications; DV does not suffer this problem.

Are there any disadvantages to using DV instead of other video formats? Only if you're comparing DV to higher-end digital video formats (including Digital Betacam, D-9, Digital-S, D-3, D-1, HDCAM and so forth). These formats are not compressed 5:1 and are therefore capable of a better-looking picture (in the hands of an experienced camera crew, of course).

What's the difference between a 1CCD and 3CCD DV camera? Cameras with one CCD (charge-coupled device) rely on a single sensor to capture light patterns from all three primary video colors (red/green/blue). Cameras with 3CCDs utilize one sensor per color, however, and are therefore able to produce noticeably higher-quality images. You will most likely find a steep price division between 1CCD and 3CCD cameras (of any video format type).

What is the shooting ratio?

The shooting ratio of a film or video is the ratio between the total duration of its footage shot and that which results from its final "cut". A film with a shooting ratio of 2:1 would have shot twice the amount of footage that was used in the film. In real terms this means that 120 minutes of footage would have been shot to produce a film of 60 minutes in length.
Shooting ratios can vary greatly between productions but a typical shooting ratio for a production using film stock will be between 6:1 and 10:1, whereas a similar production using video is likely to be much higher. This is a direct result of the significant difference in price between video tape stock and film stock and the necessary processing.

Video and Film Vocabulary

2006-07-11T11:05:00.000-07:00

Video and Film Terms that may be helpful from the Internet

Using these terms will help you to analyse and explain moving image sequences in film, television or advertising.

Camera Terms:
Framing
What’s included and excluded in an individual shot.

Very long shot/wide shot
A shot in which figures appear small in the landscape. Often used at the beginning of a film or sequence as an ‘establishing shot’ to show where the action is taking place; also used to make a figure appear small or isolated.

Long shot
A shot in which a figure can be seen from head to toe.

Medium shot
Shows the figure from approximately the waist to the head. In a mid shot, you can easily recognize an individual but you can also see what they are doing with their hands.

Medium close up
From chest to head

Close-up
Head and shoulders, enabling you to easily see facial expressions, so you can see what characters are thinking and feeling

Big close up
Head only, used when expressions are important

Extreme close-up
From just above the eyebrows to just below the mouth, or even closer: used to emphasise facial expression or to make the subject appear threatening.

Other useful terms for shots are:
Two Shot
Any shot with two people in it

Point of view shot
A shot from a character’s point of view

Reaction shot
A shot showing a character’s expression as they react to something

Noddy
A type of reaction shot used in interviews, where we see the interviewer apparently reacting to the interviewee

Over-the-shoulder shot
A shot in which we see a character over another’s shoulder, often used in interviews or dialogues

Depth of field
This means how much of the shot seems to be in focus, in front of and behind the subject.

Deep Focus
Everything in the shot appears to be in focus, which means that we can be looking at action taking place in the foreground, middle ground and background.

Shallow focus
Isolates the subject from the background.

Camera position
Where the camera is in relation to the subject.

Low angle shot
The camera points upwards, usually making the subject or setting seem grand or threatening.

High angle shot
The camera looks down, making the subject look vulnerable or insignificant.

Bird’s eye shot
Looks vertically down at the subject.

Camera movements:
Track
Moving the camera itself towards or away from the subject, or to follow a moving subject. (Not to be confused with a zoom, where the camera’s lens is varied to give the impression of moving closer to, or away from the subject.)
Pan
Pivoting the camera to the side to scan a scene or to follow a moving subject.
Whip pan
A sudden, fast pan.
Tilt
Pivoting the camera vertically up or down.
Arc
Moving the camera in an arc around the subject.
Crane shot
A shot where the camera itself moves up or down.
Hand-held shot
This is used to convey a sense of immediacy.

Editing
How the individual shots are put together.
There are two main types of editing which you will encounter in mainstream films and TV programmes:

Continuity editing
The majority of film sequences are edited so that time seems to flow, uninterrupted, from shot to shot. Within a ‘continuity editing’ sequence, only cuts will be used. Continuity editing can also involve ‘cross-cutting’, where a sequence cuts between two different settings where action is taking place at the same time.

Montage
In montage, different images are assembled to build up an impression. This is often used in title sequences. The most famous example of this technique is the Odessa Steps sequence from Battleship Potemkin.

Editing can vary both in pace (how long individual shots stay on the screen for) and in the transitions between shots.

Transitions describe the way in which one shot replaces the previous one:

Cut
One image is suddenly replaced by another, without a visible transition.

Cross-dissolve
One image dissolves into another. This can be used to make a montage sequence - eg the title sequence - flow smoothly; it can also be used in continuity editing to show that we have moved forwards in time and/or space.

Fade up
An image gradually fades in

Fade out
An image gradually fades out.
Fades to and from black usually mean that time has passed

Wipe
One image replaces another without dissolving, with the border between the images moving across or around the screen.

Daher Digital Video Information Questionnaire

2006-07-07T18:23:00.000-07:00

If you are thinking about having an educational video, instructional video, documentary, film, Internet video, public service announcement, commercial, music video, or art or sport portfolio made and would like a price quote these are some questions that you need to answer in order for me to give you a realistic quote. Vision and organization are two key components of a quality video production.

Please describe what video service you are in need of? What do you want to do?

What is the budget you’re aiming for?

What format do you want to use? DV, HD, Film, Not Sure?

Can you tell me more about the event, project or story that needs to be filmed?
Where, When, type of event, When you want the finished project done, etc.

If it is an event what speakers or audio will need to be recorded?

Will anyone be interviewed? Who and about what? Who will conduct the interview?

What type of location did you have in mind? Studio or on Location. If on location where?

Will the video production be scripted or just point and shoot footage of a live event?

Do you have a list of what you want covered? Sometimes called a Shot Sheet?

Will lights be needed?

Will wireless microphones be needed?

Is there a script for narration and editing or will you need us to create one?

Do you have graphics or logos that are video ready or do you need for them to be created? Graphics include credits, info pages, lower thirds, identification of speakers or subtitles for example.

Is there any voice over needed on the final product?

Total number of locations or events that need to be videotaped?

Video Content that needs to be covered to fulfill your goal?

Will you want music added under credits, interviews or footage? Will you provide it or purchase copyrighted music from our library?

Who will provide the narration for the production? Who will write it?

How many copies would you like?

Interested in special packaging for the DVD's or info about mass duplication?

Do you want to put the final product on the Internet? On You Tube for example?

When do you hope to have this project completed?

Who will create the script? Do they have experience with video scripting?

Desired length of project?

What style are you looking for? Examples: Interviews, On Camera Host, voice over, MTV style with quick editing . . .

What are some example of finished products that you would like to model your project after?

Thanks for your time! Now, email this to me and I will get back to you as soon as possible with a quote!

Petra Daher Productions Estimated Rates for Services

2006-07-07T18:22:00.000-07:00

Estimated Rates for Service
(517) 487-2889
dahervideo@yahoo.com
Petra Daher, Producer, Director, New Media Specialist

Services
Consulting
Are you considering producing a video but are not sure where to start? Let us walk you through the process. We can help you research, organize and script your project so that you can create the product that you want within your budget.

Digital Video Production
Including:
Documentaries, Promotional videos, Depositions, Insurance Inventories, Special events, Genealogies
Music videos, Dramatic Production, Editing, Writing, Script writing, Talent (on air & voice over)

Video Production Instruction
Interested in video? Adult and student curriculum's are available. Let a certified video production teacher guide you through the creation of a documentary, digital editing or videography. Or sign up for a class to learn how to interview or communicate with the media.

Estimated Video Production Rates For Greater Lansing Area

Digital Video Camera & Operator
$100. Hour
Producing/Project/Media Consultation
$65. Hour
Script Development
$50. Hour
Videotape editing
$100. Hour
Boom or Lavaliere Microphone
$10. -$25 an Hour
Narration
$45. Hour
(Writing and recording)
Soundtrack
$40. Hour
Duplication
$15. Up to 1 hour
Digital Photography
$65. to 100. an hour depending on type of project and location

Petra Daher is an independent video producer, director, videographer, editor, photographer and Media Education Instructor. Her work has been seen public, cable and educational television and at schools, seminars, community centers and film festivals.

This just a quote. Rates may change according to the market and location. If your are interested in High Definition Video Production Rates e-mail me for a quote. Day Rates are available for longer projects.

Non-Profit and Artist Discounts are available for first time clients.

2006-07-07T18:19:00.000-07:00

Personal Release Form

I give Petra Daher, Petra Productions, Daher Digital Video, and their successors and assigns my unrestricted permission to use my artwork, voice, music, and or image for either still photographs, film, video or live productions.

Signature:___________________________________________

Name (please print)__________________________________

Address:_____________________________________________

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Copyright Petra Daher, Petra Productions/Petra Daher Productions 2010

Petra's Filmography

2006-07-07T11:38:00.000-07:00

M. Petra Daher
Dahervideo@yahoo.com

Tree Hugger Travel is a series of travelogues I created and produced for the Internet that promotes Eco-friendly travel adventures.

Episode One
“Tree Hugger Travel Presents: Sayulita”
2008 TRT: 15 minutes

M. Petra Daher Producer Director, Writer,Reporter, Videographer
Tree Hugger Travel visits the quaint village of Sayulita, located in Nayarit, Mexico. Located 30 minutes from the Puerto Vallarta airport, Sayulita is a charming beach town that offers excellent food, surfing, fishing, music and a thriving art community. With the help of local guides we explore the highlights of this seaside pueblo and experience a taste of rural Mexico with a twist.

The Festival of Guadalupe

Sayulita's breathtaking views

Tree Hugger Travel's Golden Rules of Ecotourism from Petra Daher on Vimeo.

Episode 2
“Tree Hugger Travel Presents: Aloha Alive a tour of Oahu and Maui”
Currently in Post Production

The Makapuu Lighthouse

"The Odds are Good and Goods are Odd”

2006 trt: 28:00
M. Petra Daher Producer, Director, Writer, Reporter
Avid traveler, Petra Daher, hosts a trip through south central Alaska during summer solstice, when there is 18-21 hours a day of sunlight. Her video diary captures breathtaking nature, travel advice as well as testimonials from 14 Alaskan people. Highlights include Denali National Park, and the towns of Girdwood and Homer.

Denali National Park Petra at Crow Creek Goldmine

“Courage Under Fire Exposing the Occupation”
2004 trt: 28:46
M. Petra Daher Producer, Director, Reporter, Editor
A documentary about the International Solidarity Movement (ISM); a movement calling for international volunteers to support the Palestinian Nonviolence Movement. The documentary introduces us to the group’s Jewish co-founder and spokesperson, Adam Shapiro. Interviews with Shapiro, other ISM volunteers and Michigan Peace Team members reveal the dangerous and very important work of international peace workers. The film includes the story and a call to action for slain ISM volunteer Rachel Corrie, an American college student who trampled by an Israeli bulldozer, while trying to guard a Palestinian physician’s home from being demolished.

“Freedom of Speech: Michigan Says No to War”
2004 trt: 55:11
M. Petra Daher Producer, Director, Reporter, Editor
A visual essay of the Michigan Peace Movement responding to war, featuring anti-war protests held over the past two years. The events documented include The Mid Michigan March for Peace, held in solidarity with the National March on January 18, 2003. The statewide march, Michigan Says No to War, including a Direct Action Breakaway March on February 15, 2003. Michigan Still Says No to War held on March 15, 2003 featuring Rep. Michael Murphy. Concluding with Global Day Against War and Occupation on March 20th, 2004.

“First World Refugees”
1995 trt: 20 min
M. Petra Daher Producer/ Director/Camera/Editor
This story is a look into the unique ways of the Rainbow tribe, featuring the Oregon Regional Rainbow Gathering. Did you know that every year activists, academics, students and every day people build temporary villages on federal Forest Land in random locations throughout the U.S.A.? This free event is based on teamwork and inclusion.
Screened at the East Lansing Film Festival 1999

“Snake Rodeo”
1995 trt: 4 min
M. Petra Daher Producer / Director/ Camera /Editor
A mini documentary about a unique Art Fair previously held in Lansing’s Old Town. The video spotlights the local artists who created the event and the beginnings of a neighborhood in transition.

“The Unity Coalition”
1994 trt: 8 min
M. Petra Daher Producer, Director, Reporter, Editor
How did the city of Lansing respond to a planned KKK Rally at the state Capitol? They formed a group called the Unity Coalition and planned alternative events honoring diversity the day before and after the event. This mini-documentary features interviews with several participants and footage of the alternative ceremony that they developed.

“T-shirts And Identity”
1992 trt: 8:10
M.Petra Daher Producer / Director/ Camera /Editor
A comical look at the status of the T-Shirt in American society. Once a measly under garment, now a political statement, souvenir and uniform. People share their favorite t-shirts and reveal much more than that.

“Yoga:Working Within Yourself”
1989 trt: 27:06
M. Petra Daher Producer/Director/Editor
This documentary is narrated by four yoga teachers, Dharma Shakti, Amar Gupta, Clint Lockhart, and Alexandria Summit. The practitioners share how the practice of Hatha Yoga influenced and enhanced their lives.

Educational Documentaries
Documentaries produced, directed and edited for The Safe Schools/ Healthy Student Initiative include:

“What is the Safe Schools/ Healthy Student Initiative?”
2000 trt: 13:43

“Conflict Managers: Kids helping Kids”
2001 trt: 3:18

“Teaching Tolerance”
2002 trt: 24:00

“Setting Limits with Your Kids"
2002 trt: 30:00

“Viking Vanguard: Everett High School Television”
2004 trt: 30 min

Independent film, Broadcast Journalism, Documentaries, Mocumentaries, PSA’s and Live Productions with a 3 camera portable video studio. Six thirty minute programs a school year.

Biography
Petra Daher is an independent video producer, director, videographer, editor, reporter and Media Education Instructor. Her specialization is Observational Documentary. Her work has been seen on cable, public and educational television, at schools and community centers and at Film Festivals. In 2004, her anti-war protest footage from Lansing’s Michigan Says No to War rally appeared in a music video for The System of the Down’s song, “Boom”, directed by Michael Moore. Petra is seeking distribution for her independently produced Eco- friendly travelogue series called, Tree Hugger Travel.

Education
Vocational Teaching Certification, Radio and Television Production,
Western Michigan University, 2001

Bachelor of Arts with Honors
Interdisciplinary Humanities: Telecommunications, English and History
Michigan State University, 1992

When Petra is not producing her own projects or teaching, she has worked with clients throughout the United States to assist in the creation of quality video and film production.

Including:

Bright Light Entertainment

Dog Eat Dog Films

Greater Lansing Artspace

Jazzy Tam Films

Lansing School District

Lansing Community College

Michigan Environmental Council

Michigan Wildlife Conservancy

Points of Light Foundation

Radio Free America

Safe Schools/ Healthy Student Initiative

Sierra Club/ Michigan Chapter

TurnHere Internet Video

Video 360

Petra in Homer, Alaska

What I Can Do For You: Video Production, Photography, Workshops & Multi-Media Services

2006-06-30T12:50:00.000-07:00

Petra Daher Productions

Contact: Petra Daher
New Media Consultant, Producer, Director, Instructor
(517) 487-2889
dahervideo@yahoo.com

Consulting
Are you considering producing a video but are not sure where to start? Let us walk you through the process. We can help you research, organize and script your project so that you can create the product that you want within your budget.

Digital Video Production
Including: Documentaries, Promotional Videos, Depositions, Insurance Inventories, Special Events, Genealogies Music Videos, Dramatic Production, Production Coordination, Editing, Writing, Script Writing, Talent (on air & voice over)

Creative Packages from Daher Digital Video

Create a family heirloom. Pass memories down from generation to generation by capturing them on digital video. Preserve family stories and history or capture a family reunion or special event on professional quality digital video.

The Process
Depending on the package you select, I will provide you with a list of questions to review. This gives you the opportunity to think about your answers and to remember your stories. A pre-interview will be set up for us to prepare for the videotaped interview. In a relaxed environment of your choice you will be guided through a life interview from pre-selected questions. The videographer, using state- of-the-art digital equipment, records the interview. For an additional fee the video can then edited; adding titles, photographs and other visuals. The resulting package is a custom DVD to be cherished! Multiple copies can be ordered.

The Life Story Interview
Share life experience, words of wisdom, family stories, and much more. Your video can be enhanced with personal photos and other visuals. This is the perfect holiday gift. Don’t wait until the memories are lost.

Kid’s on Video
Parents and Grandparents, do you love to take the kids in for yearly photographs? Here's a new way to preserve a stage of your special child’s life. In a fun, relaxed atmosphere, your child will delight in telling their stories, in giving their opinions, and expressing their uniqueness. A child friendly, skilled interviewer will discover your child's personality and talents. What will you discover about your child?

Ethical Will
Looking for an opportunity to record your beliefs, intentions, values, and wishes for the benefit of loved ones? An ethical will -- unlike your last will and testament -- is a structured way to leave a non-material legacy.

Video Tribute
Here's a great unique gift for the honoree. Coordinate friends and family to record a story about the honoree. Stories will be edited and written to DVD for you to present to the honoree on the special occasion. You'll love seeing the look on their face as they watch their video!

Sports or Music Portfolio
Are you preparing to apply for college and need a video portfolio of your skill? Do you want to post something on YouTube but need video help? Do you want to enter a contest, but have to send in a videotape example? We can take existing footage that you have and assemble it together or attend an event or event(s)to capture and create an unforgettable video montage, demonstration or performance.

Video Production Instruction
Interested in video? Adult and student curriculums are available. Let a certified video production teacher guide you through the creation of a Music Video, Documentary, Digital Editing or Videography. Or sign up for a class: “How to Communicate with the Media”, “Movie Making Boot Camp” “Improvisational Movie Making Challenge” or “Video for the Web”

Online Marketing, New Media Training, Project Management or Event Planning
Including: Films, special events, parties, conferences, online social networking, workshops, and fundraisers.

Writing
Fluent in many writing styles including grant writing, television scripting, journalism, essays and creative writing

Digital Photography
Including: Photojournalism, event documentation, portraits and digital images for the web.

Blog Design and Site Management
A Blog is an on-line journal or newsletter. It is an easy and inexpensive way to promote your product, business or mission. Set up could include a biography, price list, services offered, links, a calendar of events, pictures and even background music!

Here is an example of a Blog I designed for a small business owner:

http://holistictherapymassage.blogspot.com

Workshop Menu For Creative People
Digital Video, Multi-Media, Storytelling, Mask & Puppet Theater

Sign up for a class from Petra’s Movie Making Boot Camp including Music Video 101, Documentary Film, Digital Editing or Videography.

Or experience the magic of storytelling by exploring paper mache, collage, playwriting, puppet and mask making & street and puppet theater. Adult and student workshops are available.

Video Production Instruction
Improvisational Movie Making Challenge: Teams work together to make a movie in two hours. I provide the script and support. Afterwards the finished projects will be screened, DVD copies will be available for $12. each. For a script example and photographs of a past event, check out Indie’s Birthday Challenge.

Video for the Web: Work with a video producer to plan, organize and create a video for your website, a pod cast or to promote your business.

KTV Kid’s Television: A one to 8-week program including script writing, graphic making, basic video production and interview and newscast exercises. The young people will learn the steps of video production by creating a video rotating roles like camera person, interviewer, special guest and audio.

Mini-Documentary Workshop: a 4 to 8 week workshop. Students get the opportunity to make documentary, hands on with an experienced Director. Participants will select a topic, develop a script, and learn basic video production skills such as how to set up and run a camera, how to conduct an interview and techniques for using natural light.

Multi-media Workshops
Writing: Start by decorating a decoupage journal for your writing. Then I will provide ideas and exercises for exploring journaling, poetry and creative writing. Participants will select their favorite works and that will be used in the creation of group Zine or Blog.

Digital Photography 101: Bring your camera and learn about the basics of photojournalism, nature photography, portraits and taking digital images for the web. This will be a hands on learning experience. Take pictures, view them and discuss.

Digital Photography Photo taking Marathon: Fun for the entire family. An exercise in teamwork and creativity. Groups receive a list of people, places and things they must photograph. The team that completes the list first within the designated area and time frame wins. The event concludes with popcorn, a viewing of the photos and lots of laughter

Blog Design: Learn how to make a Blog. A Blog is an on-line journal or newsletter. It is an easy and inexpensive way to promote your art, product, business or mission. Set up could include a biography, price list, services offered, photographs, links, a calendar of events, pictures and even background music!

Community Storytelling
The Storytelling Throne: In this two hour workshop the group creates and decorates a storytelling throne and use a talking stick to practice storytelling and theater games, culminating with everyone having the chance to share a story or perform at the throne.

Mask and Puppet Making: Practice basic puppet making skills using recycled materials and creativity. Projects could include garbage art sculpture, paper mache masks, musical instruments, finger, stick, and sock puppets. Impromptu performances encouraged.

Shebang! A creative circle for woman. An inter-generational experience including honesty, storytelling, role-playing, nutrition, life maps, yoga, drumming, video diaries, photography, writing, art, and guest artists. Four to six week workshops

Organizing Giant Puppet Parades, Spectacles and Street Theater
View a collection of books, photos and video footage of Giant Puppetry, Street Theater and Parades in the USA, including Alien Frontier (Lansing) Wise Fool (San Francisco) and In the Heart of the Beast (Minneapolis) to explore the potential of performance options. Two-hour workshop

Making Giant Puppet on a Budget
Learn techniques for planning a parade, spectacle or performance and techniques for making giant puppets and accessories on a budget. 4 to six week workshops

Examples of Giant Puppets by Little Artshram Puppets

E-mail Petra at dahervideo@yahoo.com for more details, to schedule a workshop, or for a price quote.