Living Memories
Capturing the stories that matter most to last forever.
Living Memories began in the tender space left after my grandmother passed away. In an effort to honor her story, I gathered her photos and home movies and carefully edited them into a heartfelt tribute that captured her essence. When I shared this final video, people would say, “I wish I could hear my _______’s voice again,” or, “My ________ told the best stories—I wish I could hear one more of them.” It was in these shared longings that Living Memories truly took root—an endeavor to preserve the voices and moments we hold dearest, allowing future generations to feel the presence of those who came before.
You And Your Stories Matter
Decades ago, we’d carefully print photographs, jot down names on the backs, and write out family stories in journals—handing down insights into our ancestors’ lives one page at a time. Today, we can take that tradition even further by preserving these stories in our own voices. A digital record—combining images, voiceovers, and personal narratives—transforms ancestry into something you can both see and hear, bridging generations in a way mere ink and paper never could. When future family members listen to the warmth and emotion in each retelling, they gain not just information, but a genuine connection to who you are and how you lived.
Memories shape who we are, yet they can fade with time if left unshared. A living video record of your family’s history keeps those stories vivid, sparks meaningful conversations, and instills a sense of belonging in younger generations. In a world that moves quickly, “Living Memories” grounds us in what truly matters: the people, places, and moments that define home.
Our Process
01 - Discovery
We begin by sending you a preliminary questionnaire to help pinpoint the moments and memories you’d love to include in your keepsake. If it isn’t meant to be a surprise, we’ll also reach out to your most important loved ones, inviting them to share stories or details they’d like featured—ensuring every treasured perspective is captured.
02 - Planning
Next, we’ll review the responses and request any photos, letters, or sentimental items that can help weave the full picture of your story. By gathering these materials in advance, we can plan meaningful ways to showcase them in the final video.
03 - Filming
On filming day, we’ll spend about 30 minutes setting up our gear. The actual recording time will depend on how in-depth you want the final piece to be, but we’re always mindful of creating a relaxed environment, allowing you to share your memories at your own pace.
04 - Editing
Our editing approach focuses on preserving the authenticity of your voice while refining the overall timeline. We remove awkward pauses, condense repetitive parts, and thoughtfully overlay your photos, text, or other media. The end result is a visually stunning keepsake that remains true to the spirit of your story.
05 - Final Delivery
Finally, we provide you with a professionally produced video, ready to be shared and cherished. Your story is now preserved digitally and in a personalized USB format that future generations can appreciate, watch, and feel connected to, keeping your legacy alive for years to come.
Key Features
FAQs
1. What is a Living Memories video?
A Living Memories video is a personalized film that preserves your family’s stories, traditions, and key moments for future generations. It includes interviews, photos, and other cherished materials, woven together in a heartfelt narrative that truly captures the spirit of your family history. They can also be called Heirloom Family Documentaries, Family Legacy Videos, among other titles.
2. Why create a Living Memories video instead of just recording audio or taking photos?
While audio recordings and photos can be powerful, a Living Memories video allows you to see facial expressions, hear the tone of someone’s voice, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of shared stories. It brings a unique depth of connection that stands out as the most vivid way to experience family history.
3. How long does the process take from start to finish?
The timeline varies depending on the length of the final video and how much archival material (photos, documents, etc.) you’d like to include. Typically, we complete most projects within 4–6 weeks after filming. This includes the discovery questionnaire, planning, filming, editing, and final review.
4. Where does filming take place?
We believe people feel most comfortable in familiar surroundings, so we often film in the client’s home or a meaningful location. If you’d prefer an alternate spot—like a family farm, a special vacation home, or our studio—just let us know, and we’ll work to accommodate your vision.
5. Can multiple family members be interviewed?
Absolutely. It's not uncommon for a husband and wife to want to share their story together, this is the most common form of multiple people being interviewed. If you'd like to do more than that reach out and get a quote for your strategic vision.
6. What if some family members live far away or can’t attend in person?
We’re flexible and can offer remote interview sessions through high-quality video conferencing tools. While in-person interviews capture richer audio and visuals, remote participation can still be incorporated seamlessly during the editing process.
7. I’m camera-shy. Will I be uncomfortable during filming?
Like anything else, it can be uncomfortable to be on camera for the first time. We work hard to create a relaxed, supportive environment so you can speak freely without feeling pressured or rushed. Our team guides you through each step, from casual conversation prompts to gentle encouragement, making the process as natural and comfortable as possible.
8. Can we include old photos and home movies?
Yes! Old photos, documents, letters, and even personal home movie clips add depth and richness to your video. We’ll digitally incorporate these materials during the editing phase, creating a seamless blend of past and present.
9. How do you handle sensitive or private topics?
We respect the stories you want to include—and those you’d rather keep private. If there are certain topics you’d prefer not to cover on-camera, simply let us know in the planning stage. Our questionnaire and preliminary discussions help us understand your comfort level, ensuring the final video reflects your wishes.
10. What if I want changes after seeing the first draft?
We typically include one round of revisions in our standard package. If you spot any edits you’d like—such as removing a section, adjusting a photo, or refining the audio—we’ll address those in the revision process to make sure you’re fully satisfied.
11. How do I receive the final video?
We deliver your finished video digitally in a shareable format that’s easy to watch on any device or platform. We also put the final product on a finished USB of your choosing from our custom selection.
12. Do you keep a backup of the footage?
Yes. We maintain a backup of your raw footage and final edit for a set period, typically up to a year, so you have a safety net should you ever need another copy or additional edits.
13. Can I involve my children or grandchildren in the filming process?
This is unusual for these kinds of videos due to patience and maintaining interest for the child during the filming process. For this reason it's usually an adult recanting the story or memory with picture and video overlay.
14. Can I break up payments?
Yes, if needed we can work out a payment plan to schedule appropriately. Usually half due by filming and the rest due before draft delivery.
15. How do I prepare for my on-camera interview?
We’ll send you a questionnaire ahead of time to help organize your thoughts. Reflect on your favorite stories, important milestones, or key lessons you’d like to pass down. If you need extra guidance, we’re here to help you brainstorm topics that resonate most deeply with you and your family.
16. How does pricing work?
We offer several package options based on the length of the video, number of interviews, and complexity of editing. After we review your questionnaire and specific requests, we’ll provide a transparent quote. If you have a unique vision, we’re happy to create a custom package just for you.
17. Can we film over multiple days or locations?
Yes, if you’d like to include different environments—like a childhood home, family farm, or multiple relatives in different areas—we can arrange a multi-day or multi-location shoot. This approach adds rich variety to your finished video.
18. What if my relative or I need special accommodations?
Our goal is to make filming inclusive and comfortable for all. If mobility or health concerns require modifications—such as an extended break, specific equipment, or an easily accessible set-up—simply let us know, and we’ll work with you to find the best solution.
19. Can the final video include music?
Absolutely. We can include royalty free background music to enhance the emotional tone of your story, as long as the proper permissions are in place. We have access to royalty-free music libraries and can suggest pieces that complement your video’s mood.
20. What if we don’t know where to start?
No problem! During Discovery, we guide you with questions, suggestions, and resources to help structure your story. Even if you’re unsure how you want the final video to look, our experienced team will assist you in creating a roadmap.
21. What should I wear for my interview?
Guidelines for What to Wear are as follows
1. Comfort & Confidence: Wear something you feel good in—if you’re uncomfortable, it’ll show on camera.
2. Solid Colors Over Patterns: Solid, muted tones typically film better than busy patterns or bright neon shades. Aim for neutral or softly vibrant colors that complement your environment.
3. Avoid Distracting Elements: Steer clear of large logos, text, or loud patterns that might pull focus away from your face.
4. Coordinate With the Setting: If you’re filming at home, choose outfits that won’t blend in too much with your furniture or walls. Soft contrasts work well to keep you visually separate from the background.
5. Minimal Jewelry & Accessories: Simple, elegant pieces are best. Too many reflective or dangling accessories might catch light or create distracting noise.