There's power in allowing yourself to be known and heard, in owning your unique story, in using your authentic voice.
Michelle Obama
about us
Welcome to This is Their Life, the new company that turns life stories into stunning Ultra High Definition documentary films for families and future generations.
Memories told firsthand, of adventures and experiences, of otherwise forgotten family history, the result is a priceless and bespoke modern heirloom to be watched and cherished for years to come.
Our team is led by the award-winning broadcaster and filmmaker Wes Butters. Having worked for all the major production companies, such as the BBC, Netflix, and ITV, we bring the same level of quality and professional standards to you and your family.
Not only do our documentary films capture the voice, mannerisms and personality in an engaging way that is unlike any other, we also transfer and include family photographs and home movies to illustrate the life stories told.
As a unique gift for your family or to a parent or grandparent, this is the perfect chance to immortalise yourself or a loved one.
what we do
By filming in your home or a place where you feel most comfortable, having a relaxed environment from start to finish makes our time together feel like a chat between friends. There are no lines to learn and no questions to answer. Instead, we gently prompt the stories and memories. Within minutes the camera is forgotten about.
Each documentary film is bespoke, enhanced by music, personal photographs and home movies that we safely transfer from their original formats.
Once your documentary film is completed, you will receive private online viewing and download links to share and keep forever.
We have, each of us, a life-story.
Oliver Sacks
How often do we tell our own story?
Julian Barnes
captured lives
To give you a taste of how your documentary film will look and feel, please take a look at some of our favourite tender and loving life stories, heart-breaking moments, and laugh out loud memories.
These captured lives will never disappear into the mists of time. Instead, they will be treasured by friends and family now and forever. And because we work in Ultra High Definition, the picture quality will always remain pin-sharp.
Give your loved ones the gift of a This is Their Life documentary film so a special legacy is kept safe and cherished for generations.
our packages
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.
Maya Angelou
The storyteller is deep inside every one of us.
Doris Lessing
FAQs
What's the next step?
From the moment you contact us, we promise to make the process smooth and straight forward. After a chat on the telephone, we will arrange to visit you. Together we will decide which stories to include, collect any photographs and home movies (to transfer), and talk through filming.
Do I really have a story to tell?
Everyone has a story. This is a way to document your life story not just for your children and grandchildren, but their children, and also the wider family. Illustrated by family photographs and home movies, coupled with emotive music, this is a unique way to bring your life to life.
Couldn't I just film myself?
Your life story deserves the best. That is why we also think about sound, lighting, make-up, and editing. And to future proof the quality of your film, we shoot in 4K, which is beyond broadcast quality.
What if I'm apprehensive?
Though daunting, there’s no need to worry. We have techniques to help you forget that the camera is even there. Think of it like a FaceTime or Zoom with your family. We are certain that within moments you will feel at ease.
When is the right time to do this?
This is one question we don’t really have the answer for. Who knows what life has in store for any of us? The sad reality is that the true value of our documentary films is fully realised once our loved ones are no longer here.
However, This is Their Life documentary films are perfect snapshots of life at any age – and can be updated with new footage in the future. Please speak to us about this.
What if I don't want filming?
We have thought long and hard about an alternative. Instead, we can use audio recordings and interviews with family members. We will work with you and your family to make your documentary film special.
Where do you film?
Mostly, we film within the homes of our clients. We don’t need much room, but somewhere quiet and comfortable for you. If you prefer to film elsewhere we can help advise.
What clothes should I wear?
Wear whatever you feel most comfortable in. But if you do fancy dressing up and donning a ball gown, go for it!
How long is the process?
Filming takes no more than a day with plenty of breaks, while editing can take around a week depending on your chosen package. Click here to read more about the process.
How am I able to watch my documentary film?
We will send your This is Their Life Family Heirloom Presentation Box via Royal Mail’s Special Delivery, in which you will receive:
- 1 x This is Their Life USB stick
- 3 x DVD copies
- 3 x BluRay copies
- Photographic portrait
Plus, you will receive online viewing via your Smart TV, phone, or computer, for up to 3 years.
What format of home movies do you transfer?
The transfer of your old home movies is included in your package. We can transfer the following formats:
- VHS
- Betamax
- 8mm/Super8mm
- 9.5mm
- 16mm
Can I include audio recordings?
As well as the transfer of home movies and photographs, we can also transfer 1/4″ tape and cassettes. Please talk to us if you require this service.
How can I pay?
We accept all major credit cards, including Visa, Mastercard, and American Express, plus Apple Pay and Google Pay, and bank transfers.