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Commonly Asked Questions
FAQs
Q: What is StoryFile Life?
A: StoryFile Life is a premium capture and story preservation service using the power of conversational video. Using this site, you can preserve and play back all your favorite memories, just as if you were having a conversation with your friends and family. You can literally talk to those life stories at any time or anyplace - even if your loved ones are not around. You can share your StoryFile with whomever you want. Keep it private, use it connect with your family, or share it with the entire world. We offer a free trial, so it is easy to get started today to create your own StoryFile or use it record those you love.
Q: How does StoryFile Life work?
A: You or someone you care about is filmed (or films themselves) answering questions about their life, which are processed and stored on the StoryFile platform. Then you can have a real life-like conversation with the filmed-version of that person on the web or on your mobile phone – anytime, anywhere. StoryFile's platform promotes user-led education and curiosity, providing an opportunity for people to directly engage with the person who was interviewed. We capture your legacy in a unique way, by empowering you to pass on your values, struggles, life lessons, morals, decisions and more, while inspiring future generations.
Q: What technology is behind StoryFile Life's services?
A: StoryFile Life uses a combination of natural language processing–which helps it understand what you ask–and artificial intelligence–to locate and play the best possible answer to your question.
Q: How does StoryFile Life differ from other storytelling platforms?
A: StoryFile Life is unique because it's interactive! When you tell your story with StoryFile Life, you'll be creating an interactive "video that talks back" that organizes and preserves your thoughts and memories. On the StoryFile Life platform, your loved ones generations into the future will know what it's like to have a conversation with you.
Q: What is a conversational video
A: "Conversational video" is just a video that talks back. It's simple, but magical–when someone asks your StoryFile a question, it will use Artificial Intelligence to respond with the best possible answer that you've recorded–and the person will feel just like they're having a real conversation with you!
Q: How does StoryFile Life use artificial intelligence?
A: StoryFile Life uses artificial intelligence to find the most appropriate answer to any question that gets asked. The AI doesn't make up its own answers, it's just finding and playing stories you recorded yourself, so if feels like continuous, realistic face-to-face conversation with your friends and family.
Q: What can StoryFile Life do for me?
A: StoryFile Life can preserve your story, and the experience of talking with you, so that people all over the world and for generations to come will know what it feels like to have a conversation with you. There are many ways to save stories and videos, but we've created a special way to experience what it's like to get to know you–along with a way to share that experience with your loved ones, no matter where you are.
Q: Why do I want StoryFile Life?
A: If you want to preserve your story, in a personal way that will allow future generations and people across the world to interact with you, then StoryFile Life is for you. You'll love it if you value the life-changing power of a good conversation, and want to share that conversation with those close to you.
Q: How is StoryFile Life going to benefit me and my family?
A: StoryFile Life is a unique way to preserve your story as an interactive video that talks back. That means your loved ones, and generations yet unborn, will be able to get to know you, and to experience who you are. The process of recording your StoryFile can also bring your family closer together. Loved ones can even help guide you through the process as you remember stories from your life, and share things you've never shared before.
Q: Who uses StoryFile Life?
A: StoryFile is for anyone who wants to tell their story in a unique, powerful, and long-lasting way. People from all walks of life have recorded StoryFiles, and StoryFile Life is specially designed for people who want to share their stories, and the experience of talking with them, with loved ones both in the present and far into the future.
Q: I am not sure if I can use this product on my own. What do I do?
A: Your loved ones can help! StoryFile Life is designed so that it can be a collaborative experience, with your loved one walking you through the process. And the experience will bring you closer together, too, since you'll get to share stories, thoughts, and experiences with them that they've never heard before!
Q: How do I record my StoryFile?
A: When you create a StoryFile, you'll video record yourself answering our curated "StoryLines" – lists of all the questions anyone would ever want to ask you. That way when people talk to your StoryFile, it will respond with the best possible answer to any question they ask. It's almost like you're a celebrity being interviewed–this can all be about you, you get to talk about your life however you want. This is also about family, bring in your loved ones to help or to record their stories as well.
Q: What happens to my video recorded answers?
A: We'll save and upload your video answers to our secure cloud. The final product will be an interactive video of you, ready to answer questions from your loved ones, just like they're having a normal conversation. You'll be able to use our platform to archive your memories and create a living memory album – all accessible through simple human conversation.
Q: How do people talk to my videos
A: Talking to a StoryFile is as simple as speaking questions out loud - the way you would talk to a real person. Our system is prepared for the wide variety of ways human beings engage in conversation. Even if your family questions are phrased differently, our system will still find the most relevant answer. With StoryFile Life, future generations will know what it's like to talk to you. They'll discover the story of your life, with you as their guide!
Q: Why do I want to purchase a premium membership?
A: A StoryFile Life premium membership gives you access to all questions on the platform, so that you can dive deep into your life story or the stories of those you love. There are over 480 questions, and we will be regularly adding more questions to the library. You'll also be able to record and interact with higher quality HD footage. You can find more details on our Pricing page!
Q: How old should I be to use StoryFile Life
A: You must be at least 16 to record your own videos. However, StoryFile will allow you share your life stories across all generations, no matter how old.
Q: Is StoryFile for older people
A: Everyone has a story to tell - mothers, daughters, fathers, sons, best friends or frenemies. StoryFile Life is designed to bring friends and family closer together with shared experiences and memories. You get to ask your friends and family what they are doing, even when you are miles apart.
Q: Can StoryFile Life be used among friends or is it more for families
A: StoryFile allows you to share your life stories with the people that matter to you. StoryCircles come in all shapes and sizes, whether it is your biological family, your chosen loved ones, or your friends for life.
Q: Can StoryFile Life be used after a family vacation to share stories, memories, and photos
A: StoryFile Life allows you document your life as you live it. This can include the latest stories from family, friends, and your work. You can tell all your stories, and share them with friends!
Q: What are some other examples of why I want to do this
A: StoryFile Life is a powerful way to capture any aspect of your life that you might want. Do you have wisdom you want to share with future generations? Have you had unique experiences that you could preserve, so that people in the future could learn and grow? At StoryFile, we believe every person's story contains their unique spark of wisdom. Try answering some of our questions–you might be surprised at what comes out!
Q: How do I use StoryFile Life
A: StoryFile Life is a platform for video recording the life story of yourself or a loved one, in a way that will create an interactive video–so that you and those you care about can continue to have conversations, even when you're not even there. Making a StoryFile is simple–just sign up for a free trial and we'll walk you through the process.
Q: Do you offer discounts?
A: If you sign up for the StoryFile Life email list, you'll be in line to receive discount codes, and other exclusive offers! If you have a code, just enter it on the Questions or Pricing pages, or in your shopping cart.
Q: How and where can I purchase StoryFile Life?
A: To sign up for StoryFile Life, check out our Pricing page! We have a number of options, so let's find something that fits you and your loved ones best.
Q: Can I purchase StoryFile Life for someone else?
A: Whether it's for a birthday, graduation, anniversary, retirement, or any other special occasion, StoryFile Life makes the perfect gift. From the My StoryCircle page, click "Invite members" to invite that special person to start their free account. Then, head to the Plans and Pricing page to select the gift level of your choice. You can cherry pick the questions to present to them, get them a StoryPack, or purchase them their own, full Premium Plan where they get access to all the current questions and more questions as they are added in the future.
Q: What type of payment options do you accept?
A: StoryFile accepts payment in over 135 curencies and most major credit and debit cards.
Q: How do I get to the Recording screen?
A: You can always find the Recording option in the menu at the top of your screen, or you find specific questions and videos on your Dashboard.
Q: How should I setup to record my videos
A: StoryFile Life is optimized for best recording on a laptop. You may also use your mobile phone to record but your camera should be stationary so we recommend using a tripod. If you do not have a tripod, position your phone on a table up against a heavy object. MacGyver it!
Q: How do I record the best audio
A: Make sure we can hear your audio clearly, try to record in a quiet place. You can use your built in microphone or an external microphone if you have one. Annunciate and make your voice heard. You can listen to your recording to make sure it sounds okay before you move on to the next question.
Q: How can I record a StoryFile?
A: You can record anywhere you have a phone or computer with a camera. Just login to the StoryFile Life website and click on Record to start answering questions.
Q: Is StoryFile Life easy enough for everyone
A: You will need an email account to setup up a StoryFile Life account. But after that, if you know how to use video chat, then you can probably use StoryFile Life. If you still need help, talk to your friends and family or send us an email.
Q: How long does it take to record a StoryFile?
A: You can answer as many questions as you want. The more questions you ask the richer the conversations you can have. We recommend recording at least 10-20 responses before publishing and sharing your StoryFile. You can do this in about 10-30 minutes. If you want to record all 500 questions, you're going to need several days! You can cover topics like your first love, or your experiences growing up in your hometown, to your career journey or the wisdom you've gained over the years. Choose one or two topics each day, and soon you'll have your entire life recorded.
Q: Where should I record my StoryFile?
A: Choose a quiet area where you can always come back to record your StoryFIle. Avoid noisy appliances like your fridge or air conditioning. Look for a background with texture and depth. Maybe a painting or a bookshelf, but not so busy that it will take attention away from you! If you prefer a solid backdrop that works, too. Make sure the lighting makes you look your best. Generally stick to either daylight or inside lighting but be careful about mixing them. Some people get an inexpensive ring light to put next to their camera. Find your angles in that light! It's time to be your own cinematographer!
Q: What should I wear?
A: What would you wear when you are with your family? Wear whatever makes you comfortable. However keep in mind that stripes, dots, and bold patterns don't always look the best on camera. It's best to avoid wearing lots of jewelry that jingles or clothing materials that make a lot of noise.
Q: Can I come up with my own questions and add them to my StoryFile?
A: We have tried to come up with many different kinds of story prompts you might want to share with your family. One story can answer many different questions. In the near future, you will be able to add your own questions and help record what makes your family unique.
Q: Can I add other materials to my StoryFile such as photos and videos?
A: We encourage you to incorporate photos, objects, and props into your StoryFile by holding them up to the camera as you narrate your stories. In the near future, you will be able to upload your own digital photos directly into your StoryFile as well.
Q: Can I edit my answers once they have been uploaded?
A: StoryFile automatically logs all your answers as you complete them. If you don't like an answer or change your mind, you can always go back and rerecord any video by going back to the question list.
Q: Can I record a StoryFile over video chat
A: We are hoping to offer a video chat plugin soon to help you record StoryFiles with friends and family around the world. Sign up to the StoryFile email list to find out more.
Q: I cannot find my recordings
A: Once you have started recording your own videos, you can find a list of all your completed responses on your Dashboard. You can also see which videos are done under the StoryLine Topics menu on the Record screen or the Topic Carousel on the Interact Screen.
Q: I cannot find my camera in the drop down menu
A: Make sure your camera is connected. Most laptops and phones will have a built in camera. If you are using an external camera, make sure that it's turned on and connected to your device.
Q: I cannot find my microphone in the drop down menu
A: Make sure your microphone is connected. Most laptops and phones will have a built in microphone. If you are using an external microphone, make sure that it's turned on and connected to your device. For more details, check your system volume controls to make sure you are getting a signal.
Q: I cannot start recording
A: The Recording page can be found in the top menu. After you select your desired camera and microphone inputs, you should be able to see a live camera view. Click on the microphone icon labeled "REC" on the right side of the screen to start recording.
Q: I cannot stop recording
A: When you want to stop recording, click "STOP" within the button at the top of your screen.
Q: My recording is not saved
A: After you record each video, remember to click "Save and Continue" to upload that video to your cloud storage. Uploading may take a minute to complete.
Q: I cannot record my StoryFile
A: If you still can not get your camera to work, or your videos to upload, please send us an email with your device and browser information and we will do everything we can to help you start recording your stories.
Q: I cannot delete my recordings
A: You can delete your recordings individually on your Dashboard page. If you want to change your global settings or delete your entire account, go to your profile page.
Q: I cannot see myself on the camera
A: First check to see if your camera is turned on, and then check the brightness and adjust it as needed. If you have multiple cameras on your phone or device, make sure you select the one that is facing you.
Q: How do I get to the Interact screen?
A: To start a conversation with a StoryFile go to My StoryFiles or My StoryCircles and click on the interact button next to a StoryFile.
Q: What device can I use to interact with StoryFile?
A: You can talk to a StoryFile on almost any device including laptops and mobile phones. On Apple devices we recommend using Safari, on Windows and Android devices we recommend using the Chrome browser. Firefox and Microsoft Edge should also work.
Q: What laptop browsers should I use to talk to a StoryFile
A: You can talk to a StoryFile on many different devices and browsers. On Apple devices, we recommend using the native Safari browser, on Windows devices we recommend using Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, or Mozilla Firefox.
Q: How can I interact with a StoryFile
A: Interacting with a StoryFile is easy! Just click on the "Hold to talk" button–you'll see it at the bottom-right corner of the window after opening a StoryFile. While you're holding it down, ask your question–make sure you hold it down for just a second after you're done speaking, and watch as your question is transcribed on the screen. Once you're done asking your question, and you can see the answer transcribed, release the button–and the StoryFile will answer you!
Q: What is My StoryFile page
A: My StoryFiles lists all the StoryFiles that are associated with your account and all the StoryFiles in your Circle. You can click on any StoryFile to start a conversation.
Q: I don't know what to ask
A: If you are lost you can always look at the hints menu in the bottom left or the topic carousel below to see sample questions and what topics have been recorded. You can record stories about all sorts of topics: childhood, friendship, relationships, career, traditions and more.
Q: I am tapping on the Hold to Talk button but nothing happens
A: Be sure to press the Hold to Talk button while you ask your entire question. If you release too soon, the StoryFile may miss part of your question. You should see the transcript of your question appearing on the screen. If you still don't see anything, check your microphone settings.
Q: Nothing happens when I ask questions
A: I am sorry you are having trouble. Make sure you press down the "Hold to talk" button for the entire time you are asking a question. Look for the red record button and the pulsing blue button in the bottom right. This is what indicates that the StoryFile is listening.
Q: I cannot hear the answer
A: First, make sure the system is hearing your question. As you press the "Hold to Talk" button you should see your questions being transcribed on the screen. If the StoryFile appears to respond and is talking but you can not hear any sound, then check your device volume and speakers. If you do not see any transcription, then check your microphone settings.
Q: I keep getting the same response
A: The variety of responses depends on how many of your answers have been recorded for a given StoryFile. If there are fewer answers available, you may end up hearing the same response multiple times to questions that are similar. Try exploring the question hints to find other stories.
Q: The screen is frozen
A: Try refreshing your browser or reopening a new window. If you still have trouble, please send us an email with your browser version and operating system and we will try to fix the problem as soon as possible.
Q: How can I share my StoryFile
A: You can share your StoryFile in two different ways. First, you can use StoryCircles, which allows you to choose a few loved ones and share your StoryFile with only them. Second, you can create a link to share on social media or with your friends via email. Remember: if you create a link, those people can share that link with their friends, too.
Q: Who can interact with my StoryFile
A: If you share with your StoryCircle, only the people you select will be able to see your StoryFile. On the other hand, you can choose to create a link in order to share your StoryFile via email or social media. Then, anyone with the link can talk with your StoryFile!
Q: Can I remove someone from my StoryCircle?
A: You can always remove someone from your StoryCircle. Go to My StoryCircle and click on Remove next to their name. They will no longer be able to see your StoryFile or ask it questions, and you will also no longer be able to see their StoryCircle.
Q: What is a StoryCircle
A: A StoryCircle is a restricted set of friends and family that can view your StoryFile and ask it questions. All StoryCircles members have to sign into StoryFile Life, so you know who they are.
Q: How do I invite someone to my StoryCircle
A: You can invite someone to your StoryCircle from your Dashboard or from the My StoryCircle page. You click on Invite Members and enter their email. They will receive an email invitation to join your StoryCircle. Once they accept, they will be able to view your StoryFile and you can view theirs.
Q: How can I post my StoryFile on social media
A: You can share your StoryFile on social media from the Share page. You can choose which platform you want: Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn, and add a message. Remember, once you share publicly on social media, anyone can post and repost your StoryFile even if they do not have a StoryFile Life account.
Q: Can someone else edit my StoryFile
A: Unless you share your password with someone, you have exclusive control over your StoryFile. No one else can ever edit it. You can also make arrangements for someone else to gain stewardship of your StoryFile upon your death.
Q: Can someone else share my StoryFile
A: If you only share it within your StoryCircle, only those users can view your StoryFile when they are signed in. If you share on social media (like Facebook, Twitter) or via email, then other people can reshare or forward your StoryFile.
Q: How do I stop sharing my StoryFile
A: All StoryFiles are private by default. If you have already shared your StoryFile, you can remove people from your StoryCircle on the My StoryCircle page. You can also disable your public social media links by going to the Share page.
Q: Is my StoryFile private
A: Your StoryFile is private by default. This means only you have access to it. If you choose, you can invite people to your StoryCircle to interact with your StoryFile, or you can create a link to share on social media so others can interact with you. Please refer to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service for additional information on our access to your StoryFile, as well as third party access.
Q: How do you safeguard my information
A: All communication with the StoryFile servers occurs over an encrypted and secure connection. Your data will remain private until you choose whom you want to share it with.
Q: Can other StoryFilers view and interact with my StoryFile
A: Other StoryFilers can only view and interact with your StoryFile if you invite them into your StoryCircle. You get to choose!
Q: Who gets to interact with my StoryFile besides me
A: You get to choose who can talk to your StoryFile. Your StoryFile is private by default, but you can share it with a restricted group of friends and family by inviting them to your StoryCircle. If you want to share your StoryFile with the world, you can post it to social media, embed your StoryFile in your blog, or email a link to your audience.
Q: How can I privately share my StoryFile
A: You can privately share your StoryFile through your StoryCircle. Only invite the people you want and trust to your StoryCircle. Any access via your StoryCircle will be password protected, so you know exactly who can view your videos.
Q: Are you going to sell or share my data?
A: In order to provide, improve, protect, and promote our Services, we share your personal information with trusted third parties. Trusted third parties are companies or individuals that we engage to provide, improve, protect, and promote our products and services. For example, trusted third parties may access your information to provide data storage services, IT services, or customer support services, but will only do so to perform tasks on our behalf. We remain responsible for the handling of your information. We do not sell your information to any third parties.
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