How to Film a Life Story – Excerpt from ebook
On 1st May I released a new step-by-step ebook – How to Film a Life Story (with bonus video walk-through masterclass).
In today’s blog I’m giving you a sneak peek into this ebook by sharing an excerpt from one of the chapters.
The 41 page ebook (with practical exercises and BONUS video masterclass included) is designed to guide you step-by-step on How to Film a Life Story. It includes practical exercises and a walk-through 40 minute masterclass video, helping you build the skills and knowledge you need to capture the legacy of your loved ones.
Excerpt from Chapter 2: Planning Your Life Story Video
Why use a timeline?
Every great story has structure, and your life story video is no different. A timeline will help you map out key events, milestones and memories of your life. It doesn’t need to include EVERY event in your life, just the ones that hold special meaning for you. Here’s a simple example:
Start by reflecting on the events marked on the timeline and notice the memories they bring up. They may include childhood memories, events that changed your path in life, relationships, career highlights, personal achievements and possibly challenges. These all contribute to your story.
Take time to brainstorm these moments, writing down everything that comes to mind and include the emotions that come up when you think about the events.
Timeline order vs themes
Once you have a list of key events and moments, you may choose to work in chronological order, following the timeline.
The other option is to use themes. This structure can also be powerful, grouping memories by topics such as school days, parenthood or living abroad. Choose the approach that feels most natural and meaningful to you.
There’s no right or wrong – just structure it however you feel works best for your story.
Use photos and online tools
Old photographs can be very helpful for building the timeline or themes for your story. They can remind us of events we may have forgotten about, so dig out your boxes of old photos and find some that relate to key events in your life.
There are also digital tools available to help you organise your timeline. For example, Trello or timeline apps like Timepath. These tools allow you to create and move events around so you can see how they fit together, making it easier to create a story that flows well.
Include some everyday moments
While major milestones are important, don’t overlook the beauty in everyday moments. A favourite childhood tradition, a funny family story or a quiet moment of connection with a special person in your life can be just as impactful as a big event. These small everyday moments will bring more depth and meaning to your video, making your story more memorable and relatable.
How to film your life story ebook
If you’d like to read and learn more, you can buy the full 8 chapter e-book (with bonus video masterclass) here for just $37 NZD:
https://www.movingmemories.nz/downloads/how-to-film-your-life-story-e-book/
Book a free call with me
If you need help with getting started with recording your family stories and memories, I offer a free 30 minute call to help you identify key areas of your life to focus on, and tips to help get your life story underway. Here’s a link to book a time:
Resources & Links
⚒️The DIY Ebook: How to Film a Life Story:
Buy the DIY step-by-step How to Film a Life Story ebook for just $37 NZD and get started on your life story project today! Includes practical exercises plus BONUS masterclass video.
https://www.movingmemories.nz/downloads/how-to-film-your-life-story-e-book/
Free list of 30 life story interview questions:
https://www.movingmemories.nz/30-life-story-questions/
10 Tips for Video Confidence (Free E-book)
https://www.movingmemories.nz/top-10-tips-for-video-confidence/
YouTube channel – Saving Family Memories:
https://www.youtube.com/@savingfamilymemories
Visit www.movingmemories.nz to find out more about my services and to view snippets of some real life story videos.
Let’s make sure that no story goes untold. ❤️
