In a time when technology makes it as easy as it’s ever been to take photos and videos (thanks, smartphones!) Millennials and Gen Xers are leading the way in finding creative ways to capture their family’s stories. These generations are old enough to have families of their own – and, therefore, understand the importance of passing down knowledge and stories from older relatives – but also extremely tech-savvy.
One of the most powerful ways to preserve your loved ones’ words and mannerisms is by sitting down with parents and grandparents to record video interviews that can be passed down for generations. These legacy videos are a meaningful way to preserve personal stories and family traditions. It also allows the interviewer to get to know their family members in a brand new way – who knows what great-grandma got up to in her youth!
If you’ve been putting off family legacy preservation because you don’t know how to film family videos, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a step-by-step guide to interviewing your loved ones and creating family story videos that will be treasured for years to come.
As time passes, memories fade and the stories that once defined family history are often lost. Legacy videos ensure that these stories are told and carefully preserved for future generations. In many families, Millennials and Gen Xers have found themselves taking on the role of “legacy video creation master” as they often find themselves caught between a fast-paced digital world and a desire to hold onto their roots.
Capturing parents’ or grandparents’ unique perspectives in family story videos offers a sense of continuity and connection to family traditions.
Recording family history doesn’t require expensive or complicated equipment. Many smartphones today have high-quality cameras that work perfectly for recording interviews. However, to ensure the best possible outcome, consider investing in a few additional video interview tools, like a tripod, a microphone for clear sound, and ring lighting.
Additionally, platforms like Kwillt make it easy to upload and organize these videos, allowing for collaboration and long-term, secure storage.
To capture the best stories, preparation is key. You’ll want to ask questions that prompt reflective answers while giving the interviewee room to share stories you may not have heard before – this is one case where being long-winded is a good thing. Tailor your questions to each person’s unique life experiences, including major historical events, personal achievements, and family traditions. Here are a few legacy video prompt ideas to get started:
Keep in mind that open-ended questions will lead to longer, richer responses when you are recording family interview videos with people of all ages.
When interviewing family members, creating a relaxed atmosphere is essential. Start with light, easy questions to help your interviewee feel comfortable before moving on to deeper topics. If they’re nervous about being on camera, reassure them that there’s no rush and allow them to take breaks as needed.
It’s also important to be an active listener, letting your relatives share their stories without interruption, while gently steering the conversation if they get off track.
Conducting comfortable interviews may seem like a challenge but as long as you allow yourself and your loved one to interact in a natural way, you shouldn’t run into any snags!
After each interview, the next step is editing the footage into a cohesive video that your family can enjoy. Video editing software like iMovie or Adobe Premiere have easy-to-use tools that allow you to trim, add transitions, and include text or music. Once you’ve completed the final cut, make sure to store the video in a secure place where it can be accessed by your own children and grandchildren in the future.
Kwillt, in particular, allows you to invite extended family members to contribute additional stories, photos, and even future interviews, creating a living, growing family archive. Storing family history online is one of the biggest perks of modern technology!
While technology makes it easy to record these interviews, the real value of family legacy storytelling lies in their emotional influence. For Millennials and Gen Xers – generations who are becoming keenly aware of how much family really matters – having these videos can bring comfort and a deeper understanding of their roots.
Sharing older relatives’ life stories in their own words becomes a priceless treasure, and knowing that future generations will be able to hear their voices and see their expressions is a gift beyond measure.
Family story videos allow younger generations to bridge the gap between past and present, creating a lasting legacy of love, resilience, and identity. In short, the emotional impact of legacy videos cannot be overstated. Documenting family memories is a long-lasting reminder that no matter how much the world changes, the essence of family remains.
Whether you use a smartphone or a professional camera, the act of interviewing your parents and grandparents is a seemingly simple way to preserve your family’s history. But, over time, it will become apparent that these are so much more than videos – they are a connection to your family’s past that can never be severed.
Feature Image by Aleksandar Nakic/Getty Images
