Frequently Asked Questions about
Legacy Videos
What is a Legacy Video?
A Legacy Video by Family Tree Video is a memoir on video capturing a parent, grandparent or multiple family members in filmed interviews sharing life stories, family history and memories. Skillfully edited and woven together with family photos, documents, maps and other memorabilia, this beautiful “moving portrait” is a modern-day heirloom families can pass on for generations.
My grandson dabbles in video. Why should I use you?
While it would be ideal for a family member to record you sharing memories, few have the time, equipment and skills needed to produce an heirloom quality Legacy Video. A Legacy Video typically involves 75+ hours of editing.
My father’s memory is fading. Will that be an problem?
It’s only natural to forget details from our early years but memories often resurface when the right questions are asked. For that reason many of my interview questions are designed to bring a person back to a specific time and place, i.e. “describe the neighborhood where you grew up”. While I may not necessarily be looking for a description of the neighborhood, the process of remembering often triggers stories that may otherwise have been lost.
Can I be in the room when my mother is interviewed?
I generally recommend against it. I find people are easily distracted and more reserved when they know a family member is listening. Sometimes, a family member will sit in a nearby room where they can still hear our conversation but can’t be seen. Or they run errands and check in every so often. Most times, though, it’s just myself and the person being interviewed.
What questions do you ask in an interview?
I have a list of over 100 questions but most are open ended so there are many follow-up questions based on a person’s response. Prior to the interview, I encourage families to let me know if there are specific questions they would like me to ask, topics I should focus on or even areas I should avoid.
Our family has a few “skeletons” in the closet that we prefer remain there. How do you handle those if they come out in an interview?
Every family has a few skeletons and while some don’t mind them being part of family lore, others do. Once I start the editing process, you will be able to view the movie on a private webpage and provide feedback. I simply edit out any stories or information you wish to keep private.
Do you do genealogy research?
No. My focus is on capturing the oral history – stories shared in one’s own words. While ancestry.com is a great resource, a parent or grandparent’s stories can add dimension to a family’s history.
I see you list research in one of your packages. What type of research do you do?
I often do light research for images that will enhance a story, such as a photo of their childhood home, grade school or the church or temple they attended.
Do you use professional equipment?
Yes, I use professional video, audio and editing equipment and software.
Do we hear your voice in the movie?
No. My goal is to create an intimate viewing experience for the family so I remove my voice entirely. Through a variety of editing techniques, a parent or grandparent appears to seamlessly tell stories directly to the viewer.
What should I wear for my interview?
Something comfortable. I frame the movie from the waist up so feel free to wear your coziest slippers.
My grandfather is in Iowa and you are in Chicago. Do you travel?
Yes. Travel expenses are additional however.
Who owns the finished movie?
You own the movie. I delete all files a few weeks after completion.
Questions? To learn more about capturing your family stories and history for your children, grandchildren and great grandchildren to know, contact Susan.
A Legacy Video is a gift your family will treasure for generations to come.
Family Tree Video, LLC
Legacy Video Production
Susan Saunders
(312) 402-6406
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Legacy Video FAQs
“There are only two lasting bequests we can give our children.
One is roots, and the other, wings.” H.S. Carter
Legacy Video FAQs
Legacy Videos
Capturing Life Stories & Family History
for Future Generations
~ The Gift of a Lifetime ~
Family Tree Video
Video Biographies ~ Video Memoirs ~ Family History Videos
Family Documentaries ~ Anniversary Videos
Video Tributes ~ Heirloom Videos
‘Legacy Video FAQs’
~ Legacy Videos ~