Video Portraits ~ TOOLS ~ Cynthia Tickell

Tips & Tools to help you create the best Video Portrait.

Whether you are here to prepare for a scheduled interview or because you want to do it yourself, please explore this entire site before you begin. The tips should help you prepare for the interview, give you ideas for questions/props, and help you avoid common pitfalls. My goal is to help you create a unique heirloom.

PREPARING FOR AN INTERVIEW

If you hired me to interview a friend or loved-one, please print the document, "Questions & Interview Prompts". I suggest that you do not let the "interviewee" read it in advance. (Spontaneous reactions are more genuine when the questions have not been reviewed.) Instead, share it with others who know the person well. Circle (and add) any topics that you want to be sure are addressed. Likewise, feel free to cross off any topics to avoid. Every interview is unique. Although I try to give it some structure to make it chronological, I tell all interviewees that they are in control and that they can re-direct me to cover what is most important to them. 

I usually send the interviewee an introduction letter once the appointment is made. At that time I include the "Preparing for Your Interview" document. That should give them the opportunity to reflect on their life and peruse photo albums, collections or other items that are meaningful. Please return all forms to me before the interview date so that I can be better prepared for the interview. Thank you!

DO - IT - YOURSELF

For those of you who plan to do the interview on your own, please click on the Professional tab in the header and read, "Why hire a professional?". Then scroll down to learn how to do it yourself.

Considering the details mentioned can ensure your results are as good as possible. There are many helpful websites on the Internet to help you with the technical steps you can take to get the best audio & video - from expensive equipment to studio recording. Contact me if you have any specific questions or suggestions to make this easier so more people will honor their loved-ones with a Video Portrait. Please consider letting young children take part by having them ask questions about the interviewee's childhood and what their own parents were like when they were young.

ATTACHMENTS FOR DOWNLOAD            

  For Interviewee:

      Preparing for Your Interview - Send this to the person to be interviewed

       Questions & Interview Prompts - Complete this on behalf of the person  to be interviewed.

                                                                  Then provide it to the person recording the interview.

                                                                  Please do not share it with the "Interviewee".

  For The Do-It-Yourself Interviewer: 

     After reviewing this whole site, download the forms above, plus -

       Pre-Interview Reminders  - Read this to your interview "subject" before beginning.

        Home     Services     Portraits     Documentation     Professional     Tools      Kids     Contact

                       Cynthia Tickell   ~  2026 ~  CynTickell@gmail.com   ~   www.CynTickell.com