FAQs
What is an "elder story?"
At Pennsylvania Elder Stories, we define an “elder” as someone with wisdom and knowledge to share. Typically, this would include those over 60-years-old who have experienced many of life’s ups and downs, but we don’t set age restrictions for our videos. We believe wisdom is garnered through experience and that the world would be a better place if the knowledge of our elders was more often shared.
What is the first step in the process?
The first step in the process is to email us to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. We will discuss the elder(s) in your life, what type of video would be the best fit, and the video production process. We’ll discuss the scope and goals of the project, including the number of interviews and b-roll involved. We welcome projects big and small, and look forward to helping you document your family stories!
What is a video shoot like? How should an elder prepare for it?
The Pennsylvania Elder Stories team shoots all of our videos in our elder’s home or their family’s residence. On the day of the video shoot, the Elder Stories team arrives one hour prior to the interview to set up the equipment. The elder is provided with the interview questions a few days prior to the shoot, so none of the questions come as a surprise. (The questions are crafted in collaboration with the elder, their family, and Pennsylvania Elder Stories.) The elder doesn’t need to prepare responses in advance, though they should familiarize themselves with the questions. We will have one break in between filming and more as needed. It is always our goal that our elders are comfortable and enjoy the interview process.
What is the turn around time for each video?
The turn around time varies for each project, though we aim to complete each video within one month. If you need a video produced in a shorter amount of time, such as ahead of an upcoming event, we will try our best to accommodate you.
What equipment do you use?
Pennsylvania Elder Stories films are professionally produced and edited using the latest software and equipment, including 4K resolution cameras.
What b-roll is included?
B-roll is supplemental footage that is intercut with a primary video, usually an interview. At Pennsylvania Elder Stories, we ask elders and their loved ones to submit images that serve as b-roll and are woven into the video interviews. We can also shoot additional footage of the elder to compliment their interview. For example, if the elder is an avid gardener, we could shoot footage of them gardening to compliment the film.
What if I have a different idea for a video?
If you have a different idea for a video project beyond our standard packages, we’d love to meet with you and hear your ideas! Each of our video projects are unique and the process is always a collaboration. Contact [email protected] for more information.