Tell your life story on film with family by your side

Granddaughter Kate supports her 87 year old Nan Beverley on the life story filming day.

When it comes to creating a life story film, one of the most beautiful parts of the process is when family members join in on filming day. At Big Stories Little Films, we’ve seen firsthand how the presence of children, grandchildren, and loved ones brings out the very best in the people we are filming.

Recently, we had the joy of capturing behind-the-scenes moments of 87-year-old Beverly, supported by her granddaughter Kate. These small but powerful interactions showed us once again why family support is so important when telling life stories on film.

Here are three reasons we love it when family come along on filming day:

1. Confidence Soars with Family by Your Side

For many people, sitting down to be filmed can feel a little nerve-wracking at first. Having a familiar face in the room provides reassurance and helps ease those pre-interview nerves. A gentle smile, a squeeze of the hand, or even just knowing a loved one is nearby can give someone the confidence to relax and share their story wholeheartedly.

2. Filming Day Becomes a Treasured Memory in Itself

Creating a legacy film isn’t just about preserving memories — it’s also about making new ones. When family members come along, the day itself becomes a shared experience to cherish. Laughter, stories, and moments of connection often unfold naturally between generations, adding another layer of joy to the story being told.

3. Family Helps Ensure Favourite Stories Are Captured

Sometimes the most precious stories are the ones family members gently remind their loved one to share. A granddaughter might say “Don’t forget to mention the family holiday we still laugh about…” These prompts ensure that no treasured memory is left untold — and that the finished film becomes a true reflection of the family’s legacy.

Capturing the Beauty of Intergenerational Storytelling

Moments like Kate supporting her Nan Beverly are a reminder of how meaningful intergenerational storytelling can be. It’s not just about recording a life on film — it’s about strengthening family connections, celebrating love across generations, and preserving stories that will live on for years to come.

If you’re considering creating a life story film for someone you love, we encourage you to make filming day a family occasion. After all, the more the merrier.

If you want to record your parent or grandparents story, and maybe even come along on the day of filming, let’s make that happen!