32: Genealogy and documentary - a chat with genealogist Emma Cox

Photo by Kusakabe Kimbei (日下部 金幣|) (1841 - 1934) - Public domain

Lesson 32 from my course How to Kickstart Your First Documentary takes us on a slightly different journey into the wonderful world of genealogy with Emma Cox, who gives lots of fascinating details for you on how to kickstart your family search. 

Don't lose your family history - preserve the memories

Take this amazing photo by Kusakabe Kimbei, a Japanese photographer who had a studio in Yokohama from early 1880 until 1913. Kimbei supplied art to Western customers. Let's say I found this in a box of mementoes belonging to my great-grandfather. How does this photo add to my grandfather's story? What does this tell me about my grandfather? With some research, I find out he worked in Japan for two years in 1902-04 and would have possibly known Kimbei, at the very least knew of his studio. It gives me an insight into his soul somewhat.

GENEALOGY fusing with DOCUMENTARY
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Today I speak with Emma Cox, Genealogist. She uses different ways to build up a picture portrait of a family. Using photos, historical records as well as genetic analysis, she can offer more than a family tree. This chat sheds light on those of you who have family archives and are not quite sure how to start researching more.

Documentary filmmaking often needs archival research. Today more of us are interested in family and our family history. I hope that Emma inspires you to dig out those albums and go onto your family's journey.

Emma Cox Genealogist - Interview

Thank you for your time. I hoped you enjoyed this as much as I did. Thank you Emma for your time.

If you need any help to kickstart your documentary drop me a line and ask your questions.

Have a great week ahead. Take care.

​Jeanne