Creating a Life Story Video from Family Photos
A life story video brings together photographs, short video clips, music and memories to tell the story of someone’s life. It can be created as a family keepsake, a remembrance gift, or a tribute to share with relatives and friends.
The aim is not to include every photograph you own, but to choose moments that help show the person’s character, relationships, milestones and everyday life.
Start with the main stages of life
A simple way to plan a life story video is to think in sections. These might include childhood, family life, school years, work, marriage, children, grandchildren, holidays, hobbies, friendships and later years.
You do not need to cover everything evenly. Some parts of life may have more photographs than others. What matters is creating a flow that feels natural and personal.
Choose photos that show personality
Formal portraits can be important, but everyday photographs often say just as much. A smile, a favourite place, a family meal, a holiday, a hobby or a quiet moment can help show who someone really was.
Try to include a mixture of people, places and moments. This helps the video feel warmer and more rounded.
Include short video clips where suitable
Short video clips can add movement and presence to a life story video. They might show someone speaking, laughing, walking, dancing, celebrating or spending time with family.
It is usually best to use video clips carefully, rather than adding too many. Photographs often work best as the main structure, with video clips used as meaningful moments within the finished piece.
Use music that supports the memories
Music can strongly affect the feeling of a life story video. Some families choose a favourite song, while others prefer gentle instrumental music that gives the photographs space.
The best choice is usually music that feels connected to the person or appropriate for the tone of the video.
Keep the finished video useful
A life story video can be watched at home, shared with family, given as a remembrance gift, or used at a funeral, memorial service, wake or celebration of life.
Because it is supplied as a digital file, it can also be saved and revisited in the future.
How Everlasting Tributes can help
Everlasting Tributes creates done-for-you tribute, keepsake and life-story videos from your family photographs, short video clips, music choices and memories.
View our tribute video styles or contact us if you would like help creating a life story video.