Saving old memories
If you have a box of old memories collecting dust and it has video tapes like
VHS, VHS-C, Hi-8, Mini DV’s, an 8mm film collection from the 1950’s-60’s, this
article is for you…
First, it is good to realize this type of technology will not last forever. The tapes
and film you have, are aging before your eyes. The deterioration begins to
happen after 10 years, all those family vacations and celebrations you recorded
in the 1990 and 2000’s have already more than likely been compromised to
some extent. This is true even for ones that have been stored in prime
conditions. Because your VHS are a form of magnetic tape used for storing
video and sound it could happen even more rapidly.
Many of us purchased our first video camera in the 80’s or 90’s, our tapes have
long lived their life and are well past their expiry date. The safest way to ensure
your memories live on for future generations is to digitize and preserve those
memories before they are lost forever.
Can you put a price on those memories?
I find that the biggest piece of having these memories converted is seeing the
faces and hearing the voices of loved ones that are no longer with us. I am
always taken back when I hear my Granny’s voice and see her smile. And
watching my kids who are now in their 20’s run around on summer days
through sprinklers or singing carelessly into our Sony Camcorder for hours on
end. There is a quote that says, today’s precious moments become tomorrow’s
precious memories. I find truth in this and encourage families to work now to
preserve those precious stories and memories before they are lost, gone, or
forgotten forever.
You might be asking, what about my old film reels in cannisters? Maybe you
inherited the family box? 8mm film can last up to 70 years. This is only if stored
in ideal conditions but if you do the math, 8mm film captured in 1950, it is
already 70 years old and up on its lifespan. Just like video, film should be
converted to digital format to ensure it can be enjoyed for years to come.
I would not recommend converting your video or film to a DVD, Mp4 is a more
widely acceptable digital format and can be live streamed on a computer,
tablet, or smart TV.
Ideally, keeping your digitized files in a family legacy cloud account where they
can be shared, and data migrated or future proofed for your family generations
from now would be the best for your family memories.
Lastly, something to consider is what to do with the home movies once they
have been digitized? I get families to look ahead, 10-20-30 years or more.
Where will your family find your precious photos and stories?
Do you have a plan for succession for your family collection?
My advice: Reach out to a Photo Organizer like me, one that has experience in
helping families downsize, digitize, and preserve their collections. One that can
confidently help families pass their legacy on.
I would be happy to talk more with you about your photo goals and work
together to help you leave a legacy and not a mess.
Written by Deanna Johnson; Photo Coach &Organizer
20+ Years Experience
Proud to live, work, and play on the unceded territory of the Coast Salish People on Vancouver Island, BC.
