Preserving the Past: A Guide to Conducting Family History Interviews
The holidays are a great time to learn more about your parent’s or grandparents’ experiences. As you begin the process of interviewing your family, it's important to prepare in advance to ensure a successful and meaningful experience for both you and your interviewee. Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you conduct your family history interviews:
Prepare in advance: Before the interview, make a list of questions that you want to ask and do some research on your family's history to fill in any gaps in your knowledge. This will help you feel more confident and allow you to ask more targeted, specific questions during the interview.
Create a comfortable atmosphere: It's important to create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for your interviewee, as this will make them feel more at ease and encourage them to open up about their experiences. Consider conducting the interview in a comfortable, familiar setting such as their home or a favorite location.
Ask open-ended questions: Rather than asking yes or no questions, try to ask open-ended questions that encourage your interviewee to share their thoughts and feelings. For example, instead of asking "Did you enjoy your time in the military?", try asking "What was your experience like serving in the military?"
Encourage storytelling: People often remember and connect with stories better than facts and figures, so try to encourage your interviewee to share anecdotes and personal experiences. This will make the interview more engaging and memorable for both you and your interviewee.
Be patient and understanding: Your family's matriarch or patriarch may have a wealth of knowledge and experiences to share, but it can take time for them to open up and share their stories. Be patient and understanding, and take breaks as needed to ensure that your interviewee remains comfortable and engaged.
By following these tips, you can conduct a successful and meaningful family history interview that celebrates the life and legacy of your family's matriarch or patriarch. We hope these tips help as you begin the process of creating your own documentary with Bookmark Films.