Pricing

Our prices typically depend on the following factors:

• Duration of the video or size of the book
• Number of photos, slides, digital images or footage
• Condition of old paper photos
• Amount of editing (such as cropping, straightening, retouching)
• Whether the photos, digital images and slides are provided to us in chronological sequence, or not
• Whether captions, notes and dates are provided for each picture, or not
• Post-production requirements: editing, motion graphics, visual effects (VFX), music licensing

Because of the above factors, we prefer to have at least an initial telephone interview before quoting a price. We are confident that we can provide you with a quote to suit your budget, tailored to your needs, and that you will be 100% delighted with the finished result.

LIFE STORY VIDEO

Basic: $125 per completed video minute
Included: High definition video in MP4 format with captions and background music. Includes one free copy on a USB.
Extra charges: Session to record audio narration: $100/hour

Optional:

  • Subtitled versions
    Clear, readable subtitles for hearing-impaired viewers or for sharing with family overseas.

  • Condensed highlight cut
    A shorter “best moments” version created from a longer documentary, perfect for sharing with extended family.

  • Still-frame extracts
    Selected high-quality stills taken from the film for use in printed books, memorial cards, or photo frames.

  • Private family archive version
    An extended cut that includes extra stories or sensitive material, kept private for immediate family only.

  • Family and friends voices edition
    Short contributions recorded from children, grandchildren, or close friends, woven into the main film or delivered as a separate video.

Extra charges:
  • Session to record audio narration: $100 / hour

  • Scanning paper photographs, certificates, awards and other paper documents: $100 / hour

  • Photo restorations and digital enhancements: $100 / hour

  • Miscellaneous other tasks, such as organizing translation, gathering information via web research,
    and sourcing royalty-free imagery: $100 / hour

  • Printing and shipping of hard copies of the book.
    Typically, we will use Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) in Canada.

  • Standard Amazon shipping for KDP books: $6.49 for domestic delivery

  • For an 8.5" × 11" book, printing costs depend on page count and paper type


To calculate Amazon Kindle Direct Publishing (KDP) printing costs in Canada, please use the official, web-based Amazon KDP Printing Cost & Royalty Calculator. This tool factors in trim size, page count, and ink type (B&W or color) to give you an exact minimum list price and expected royalties. View the Amazon KDP Paperback Printing Cost Help Page for a comprehensive breakdown of trim sizes, fixed costs, and international marketplaces.

LIFE STORY BOOKS

The base cost is calculated on a per-page basis and is determined by the amount of text and the number of images on each page, provided that all images are supplied in digital format.

  • Mostly text (0 to 2 images per page): $90 per page

  • Mixed text and images (3 to 4 images per page): $110 per page

  • Image-heavy pages with extensive captions (5 to 9 images per page): $125 per page

Do I need to be good with technology to work with you?
No, not at all. We take care of the technical side. Our process is designed to be simple and comfortable, whether you’re creating a book or video. All you need to do is share your memories.

How do you collect my story?
We begin with personal interviews. These are relaxed conversations where we sit and talk, at your pace. Interviews can be done in person or online if distance is an issue. From there, we shape the material into the format you’ve chosen.

What if I’m not sure what to say or where to start?
That’s very common. We guide the conversation with gentle questions and prompts. You don’t need to prepare a script or have everything figured out in advance.

Can family members contribute as well?
Yes. Family members can share photos, letters, stories, recordings, or memories. This is especially meaningful for family tribute projects and legacy books.

Do you work with old photographs and paper documents?
Yes. We can scan, repair, retouch, and enhance old photographs and documents such as certificates, newspaper clippings, letters, and greeting cards, preserving them clearly and respectfully.

Do you accept photos and footage from a digital camera or mobile phone?
Yes. We accept a wide range of digital formats, including JPG, PNG, TIF, BMP, AVI, MOV, MP4, and WMV.

How should I prepare my photos?
If possible, choose the photos you’d like included and provide any information you remember, such as dates, places, and names. This helps us tell your story accurately, but perfection is not required.

What if my photos aren’t in order or some details are missing?
That’s okay. We can organise and sequence materials on a best-effort basis. When details are missing, we work carefully with what’s available and check with you along the way.

How long does the process usually take?
Timelines vary depending on the project and how much material is involved. We’ll outline a clear schedule at the beginning and keep you informed throughout. If your project is tied to a specific date, such as an anniversary, birthday celebration, or memorial service, please let us know as early as possible. Advance notice allows us to plan carefully and ensure that everything is ready on time.

How are videos delivered?
Videos are delivered as high-definition films. They can be viewed privately online via unlisted YouTube links or provided as downloadable MP4 files, suitable for computers, USB drives, and most smart TVs.

What about privacy and security?
Your materials are treated with care and confidentiality. Private websites and video links are password-protected or unlisted, shared only with people you choose.

Can I order extra copies later?
Yes. Printed books can be reordered through print-on-demand. Digital files and archives can also be supplied for safekeeping.

Frequently Asked Questions

Every project is different, so the best place to start is a short phone conversation. It helps us understand your story, your expectations, and what matters most to you before suggesting a price. From there, we can put together a quote that fits your budget and is genuinely tailored to your needs. We’re confident you’ll love the finished result!

Contact

Office: 604-929-0904

Text messages: 604-816-9764

Email: info@mylifestory.ca

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