Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Life History?: A Life History is a digitally recorded interview of you or someone you care about. it is designed to capture the persons story and “essence” for now and posterity.
Who compiled the questions for the Life History interview?: I have personally compiled the question bank for Life Histories. I have honed close to 200 questions over many interviews, designed to draw upon the clients reflections. The interviewee reviews my questions beforehand and decides which ones to use and is invited to add their own. Family members are also encouraged to offer questions to help focus the dialogue. All questions are subject to the clients approval.
How long does it take to customize the questions for the interview?: It depends on you and your family members. Less time if you choose not to ask family members to add questions; more time if you do. I prefer to meet with you during this important preparation phase and short of that I have found e-mail and phone to be helpful tools.
How long does the filming take?: This depends on the individual. Ordinarily the filming can be completed in the course of three to five days.
You are a Licensed Professional Counselor, do you act as a Counselor when filming?: No. My private practice is a completely different profession from Life Histories.
Where do you conduct the Life Histories?: Anywhere the interviewee prefers. Thus far most of the Life Histories have been in the comfort of ones own home. I frequently have, at the request of the subject, included views of the individuals house and surroundings. I recently interviewed a lovely lady who lived on a farm and most of the interview was filmed as we strolled her property.
Can you come to our location?: Yes, I find that people are more comfortable in their own environment. I have traveled throughout Montana, California, North Carolina, New Mexico, Mississippi and as far away as Brocket, Canada and Cambridge, England.
Who films the Life History?: I film the interview, but I am off-camera.
Can you film photographs when you film the Life History?: Yes, it actually works very well in terms of the telling of your stories.
Do you edit the Life History?: Over the years, I've learned that most editing is done by being very prepared with the correct questions. Realistically, with most life histories, minimal editing is required for smooth visual transitions on screen.
Is the Life History confidential?: Yes.
Do you film all ages?: Yes, a few years ago I filmed a young boy who was on the brink of adolescence. It was a very sweet passage to capture. I film individuals of all ages.
How much does a Life History cost?: There is no charge or fee for an initial consultation. Thereafter the cost depends on several factors, mainly: preparation time, travel time, length of actual interview, any post-production time. Since these times can vary a consultation will provide a realistic cost approximation. Once we have agreed to create a personal Life History a retainer of 50% is due. This is determined after the initial consultation has been completed.
What type of equipment do you use when filming?: I use a digital video camera for best results.

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Samuel D. Backus

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Frequently Asked Questions

Services - This is what I do

Testimonials - Read some of my results

Contact Me - Ask a question