Before the interview
Start by choosing a quiet, comfortable space where your interviewee feels relaxed. Test your recording equipment beforehand, prepare a list of open-ended questions, and have backup questions ready. Let them know what to expect - this isn't an interrogation, it's a conversation about their life experiences.
Keep it simple. A smartphone with a voice recording app works perfectly. If you're using Keepsake, you can type directly as they speak or record and transcribe later. Bring a notepad for observations about emotions or gestures that audio won't capture. Consider having old photos or mementos to spark memories.
Aim for 45-90 minutes per session. Longer than that and people get tired, shorter and you might not get into meaningful territory. It's better to have multiple shorter sessions than one marathon interview. This also gives them time to remember more stories between sessions.
During the interview
Start with easy, positive questions to build comfort. Ask about their happiest memory or favorite family tradition. Use photos or objects as conversation starters. When they mention something interesting, dig deeper with 'Tell me more about that' or 'How did that make you feel?' Silence is powerful - give them time to think.
Emotions are part of the story. If they get tearful, offer a tissue and ask if they'd like a break. Don't rush to change the subject - sometimes the most meaningful stories come with tears. Acknowledge their feelings: 'That must have been difficult.' Let them guide whether to continue or pause.
Approach gently with phrases like 'If you're comfortable sharing...' or 'We can skip this if you prefer.' Watch body language for discomfort. If they deflect, respect it and move on. You can always circle back in a later session when trust is stronger. Some stories aren't meant to be told, and that's okay.
Open-ended questions that start with 'how' or 'what' work best. Instead of 'Did you enjoy school?' try 'What was school like for you?' Ask about sensory memories: 'What did Sunday dinner smell like?' or 'What sounds remind you of home?' These questions unlock vivid, detailed stories.
After the interview
In Keepsake, create chapters by theme (childhood, career, family) or chronologically. Upload photos mentioned during the interview while memories are fresh. Add your observations about their emotions or gestures. Review recordings soon after while context is clear in your mind.
Memory isn't perfect, and that's okay. Unless it's a crucial historical detail, let their version stand. These are personal memories, not Wikipedia entries. If you notice inconsistencies, you might gently ask for clarification in the next session, but don't make them feel interrogated.
Different family members often remember events differently. Include multiple perspectives when possible - 'Mom remembers it this way, while Dad recalls...' These differences are part of your family's story. Don't try to determine who's 'right' - preserve all versions.
Give them a week or two between sessions. This allows time to process and often triggers additional memories. They might say 'I remembered something after we talked.' Keep momentum going but don't rush - quality matters more than speed. Most life stories need 4-8 sessions to capture properly.