- Frequently asked questions -

So, how does this whole thing work?

You basically need two things... a video projector, and a window with a white screen on it, on which the projected image appears. It's a process called 'rear projection', which is like a regular film being projected onto a screen, but you are looking at it from the OTHER side of the screen (opposite side of the projector). This way, the projector is not visible, and you do not block the projection (and cause a shadow) when you stand in font of the screen to view it. This also means that your precious projector is safely in your home, while the viewers are outside, on the other side of the window!

Video projectors come in a few varieties... ranging from expensive pro versions, to inexpensive kids versions. The main difference between the two versions (besides more features on the more expensive models) is mostly the sharpness of the image, and the brightness of the image (and, as a result, the distance at which it can be from the screen before getting too dim). For things like ghosts and other subjects that don't have much detail, the kids versions can work surprisingly well. The kids projectors can be used for detailed animations, but will be fairly soft and dim... but, if money is tight, it's still certainly worth a try.

As for the screen, it seems a regular bedsheet type material works fine. You'll want to attach it to the INSIDE of the window, so that the edges are blocked by the frame of the window when viewed from outside. It's pretty important to get the sheet as straight and tight as possible, as folds will show up and distort the image. The lights in the room should be turned off, and the projector pointed at the screen and lined up so that the image is as close to the size of the window.

Can the animation be projected in any window?

Obviously we can't know every type of window size and situation , but we use black to your advantage. The environment animation fades to black at edges so you can resize as needed. If you need to make it bigger and cut off some of the image , your window will take care of that. If you need to make it smaller or shift it to either side of a window strut, the faded edge will blend into the blackness. The creature animation is done over black so you have great freedom to resize and move as needed.

Why downloads and not all dvds?

Downloads saves us physical cost of making and shipping dvds and we can pass that savings on to you. We are assuming that most people will be running the animations from a laptop or computer of some sort, and in doing it that way, their media player software probably allows for multiple clips to be arranged into a playlist, which means you can have several different animations that are playing, one after the other, rather than having to choose one DVD to play the whole night. Those people that are a bit more technically minded can also burn their own DVD using the file, if they like. Some customers are taking advantage of the smaller projectors that can read media cards and USB keys as well.

How does the purchase work?

If you want to purchase an animation, simply click on the BUY NOW button underneath the intended animation. If you have an existing PayPal account, you can then simply log in. If not, then you are asked to fill in your information first.

You will be shown a summary of the purchase, including the final price, and can confirm the purchase with a click of a button. You are under no obligation at that point, and can cancel out of it before committing.

Money transactions are done through a secure PayPal system. Once you confirm the purchase, you are sent an automated email with the link to your files.

Will you have more animations?

That's the plan! We intend on making more (and different) animations throughout the year. If reaction to our animations is good, we will be making them quite regularly. We have LOTS of ideas. Even so, if you want to see something in particular, let us know! We may even do custom work for you. We'll certainly be continuing to make animations for our own haunts each year!

Do I have to choose just one animation for the night?

Nope! Because we are using computer files, you can put several animations in your media player's playlist (just like your music mp3's), so it plays each one, one after the other, then loops back to the first one, and does the pattern again. This means that you not only can play more than one Scaremation animation during the night, but can even use animations from other companies, or even your own! There's plenty of room for all of us here! (Of course, you can play a single animation as well, if you like!)

I like your animations, but my budget is pretty tight. Any help?

We hear you! We will be creating a wide variety of animations of different lengths and complexities, including ones perfect for tighter budgets. Stay tuned!

Are you on Facebook or MySpace?

Facebook, yes (Click HERE for our Facebook page). MySpace, not yet.

I've got another question that isn't listed here...

Get in touch with us. We'll do our best to help you out! Talk to us, let us know what you want, tell us what you think. Your opinion matters!