The Best Way to Document a Family Member's Stories

With 19.3 million veterans in the United States as of 2014, according to the United States Census Bureau, many families have the honor of knowing someone who has served the United States military. These veterans often have unique, emotional, and compelling personal stories to tell. Sharing stories among family members is one of the best ways to preserve legacies and pass them on to future generations. Additionally, one of the most important pillars of compassionate veterans care is taking the time to listen to and discuss their stories.

Remembering Through Video

Videos are great ways to ensure that a family member's face is more than just a still photo for younger generations. With voice and expression changes, a veteran's story can come to life. Nowadays, even an inexpensive handheld camera from a local electronics store can create a high-quality video of a family member telling his or her stories.

Best Practices for Recording

Below are a few steps to ensure an engaging recording.

- Choose a quiet indoor setting with soft, sound-muffling furniture such as rugs, blankets, and wall coverings.

- If possible, choose a room without harsh fluorescent lighting.

- Recording in the veteran's home is ideal for ensuring that he or she feels comfortable and natural.

- Center the speaker's face and shoulders in the frame.

- Filming from a slight side angle, with the speaker talking to someone just out of sight, is a customary interview filming practice.

- Prop the camera on a sturdy surface to avoid a shaky frame.

Of course, if the family member is living in a veterans care facility, make sure to check with the facility about their rules and how to set up for recording in a safe and non-disruptive manner.

Sharing and listening are essential for preserving mental and emotional health at any age or stage of life. One of the most important things a family can do to maintain proper veterans care is to take the time to document stories that can be passed on to future generations.