Tips on how to record your loved one’s memories and stories in a digital format

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Published on Friday, 20 May 2022 10:37

Last Updated on 01 July 2022

Monica Costa

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Recording your loved ones fondest recollections is a kind present you may give to them far and wide. It’s a method to communicate with your departed loved ones and provide them comfort and support even if you’re unable to be there for them in person.

One may say that we are now experiencing the first generation that lives almost entirely online. Every day, even if you just use one social media platform, you are building a digital legacy for yourself.

Recording your loved ones recollections might also provide you the comfort of knowing that their last word doesn’t have to be their last word. For those you care about, a video or audio recording allows them to continue to be a good, caring presence in your life.

As you examine your family history, you may find it soothing. Your loved ones may also be able to utilize the information to help them recall events after they’ve lost their memory or write obituaries for loved ones when the time comes. For the sake of your loved ones, find out how to capture their memories and tales in a digital format

Getting the Ball Rolling

Before you even begin, don’t presume that your topic will consent to an interview. Last year, I asked my mother if she would allow me to interview her about her life. What was her answer to this? “No. “I don’t have anything to add.” She’s hardly the only one with this outlook.

People who claim, ‘No one wants to hear my tale,’ aren’t often difficult to discover. Saying “This would mean so a lot to me and future generations of our family” is a good idea. The individual who is asked to share their recollections will feel less pressured since the focus will be on the family. This is one of the best Gifts for Grandpa.

Decide whether or not you want to use video or audio

It’s easier to follow along with a video clip since you can see the subject’s facial expressions. Combine audio and video records for a more complete picture. What did you like to do as a kid? was one of the questions I asked my father when I was younger. He was caught on camera by me. I used my voice app to record his ideas on aging and death while he spoke. To aim my phone at him as he spoke about seeing his family decades after they had died made me feel like I was interfering with his privacy. The end aim is the same no matter what technique you use: to preserve the thoughts and tales of a loved one.

Selecting the right equipment for your needs is essential to your success

When I made the move to an iPhone, I was surprised by the quality. What’s wrong with following the lead of some other production firms and documentarians and using a smartphone? Smartphones have several benefits, including affordability and convenience. Every time he told me a tale, I had no idea what was going to happen. With each further appointment, my inquiries grew, and so did the number of recorded sessions. I had the option of using an action camera with a lavalier microphone or renting a professional camera, but I decided to go with my iPhone since it’s so convenient. When it comes to photography, the greatest camera is one you carry with you and can use.

Shoot horizontally, in landscape position, to prevent having space on either side of the frame.

Set the Scene

Shoot in a quiet area with a more intriguing backdrop than a blank wall—a bookshelf works nicely for this purpose. During the day, place your subject in front of a window to make use of the natural light. Lighting someone with a ring light is an excellent idea when using a smartphone to capture video.

It’s possible to make your subject feel more at ease when recording by following a few simple steps.

Allow the subject to choose the location for their filming (that includes a favorite room or chair).

Make sure they’re dressed comfortably. You don’t want them to be distracted by a scratchy collar, but rather by the memories they have of their childhood.

Start with a list of questions, but instead of moving on to the next one, pay attention and ask follow-up questions.

Zoom allows you to record a video call with a loved one even if they live far away. The recording of your session may either be saved to your computer or shared with others on Zoom’s website after the session.