My first personal history was of my father in the 1980s on a rented video camera. We “found” the tape some 20 years later. We were stunned to be able to listen to him talk to us about his life some 10 years after he had died. I found that video to be priceless and decided to give others that same priceless opportunity. I have been producing professionally edited videos since 2004.

You owe to yourself and your children to put your parents’ or grandparents’ story in their own words before it’s too late. That window of opportunity is closing. Don’t wait. You may want to do your own story for the same reason.

Package I

This package includes up to one hour of edited interview on a DVD incorporating up to 10 scanned photos or documents. You will receive four customized copies of the DVD. Additional copies of the DVD are available at $15.00 each. Total cost $600.

Package II

This package will give you up to two hours of edited interview with 20 scanned items included. You will receive four copies of the finished DVD. Additional copies are available at $15.00 each. Total cost $900.

Day of the Interview
We come to your home and the interview itself will take about an hour. We will need a few minutes to set equipment before the interview and take it down after. We have questions that can get you started and will guide you through the interview in a chronological fashion. Since this will be an historical document as well as a reminiscing of your life, it’s is best to start by identifying yourself, when and where you were born. You would also want to tell what you know about your parents, grandparents, and siblings.
Then just tell your stories.

I. My life is average and not very interesting. Why would I record any portion of it?

Your grandparents may have lived an “average” life. Wouldn’t you love to be able to hear them describe that life which was so much different than yours. Your grandchildren will want to know as much about you. One of the greatest gifts you can give is your life experience and your lessons learned.

II. What if I say something I didn’t mean to?

Video editing can easily remove any distractions and misstatements from the video. Before we finalize the interview we will show you what has been done. You will have the opportunity to review and note any changes you would like to make.

These interviews are produced on quality, archival DVDs. But there are some major risks involved in their preservation. One is technology obsolescence. The other is that they are lost or destroyed by accident or disaster such as fire or earthquake.

Technology changes so fast. Not so long ago VHS tapes were cutting edge. Now it is getting difficult to buy a VHS player. DVDs may soon be replaced by something even better. The best way to deal with technology obsolescence is to convert the current media to the next generation as it becomes mainstream.

The best way to protect against loss by accident or disaster is to have multiple copies made and distributed to friends and family spread out geographically as far as possible. That’s why we include so many copies in the original price.

III. Where do you shoot the video?
The filming is usually done in your own comfortable surroundings where you will feel most at ease. It can be done most anywhere you choose.

IV. How long does the video shoot last?
The interview itself usually lasts about an hour. We will need a few minutes before and after to set up the camera, then lights and microphones if necessary. An hour and a half should be sufficient.

V. What should I wear?
You should wear comfortable, casual clothes. Solid colors such as light blue, soft yellow, grey, tan, or green work best. Don’t wear a color that blends in too closely with your immediate surroundings.Certain types of clothing; busy patterns, stripes, plaids, white or red fabrics; can be distracting on video. “Statement” clothing with words on them should also be avoided. You may even want to have a couple alternate outfits available.

Editing
Back at our studio we first scan any photos or documents that you want to include. We then edit the tape. We eliminate anything that would distract from the story. We may rearrange the sequence to make it flow better and include the scanned material. We then make DVD copies of the interview and professionally label them.

Final Product
We deliver the agreed upon number of copies to you within two to three weeks.

Don Walton

MySelectedMemories.com

801-793-8408

donwalton1@comcast.net

Imagine Preserving Memories for: Families | Grandparents | Children | Grand Children