Most everyone has old home movies that are enjoyed on special occasions, family reunions, Christmas parties, etc. We watch them to remember how things used to be or to revisit someone special that is no longer with us. Some of these film reels have no sound, such as the 8mm films our dad's took before microphones were attached. Others are videotapes that may have been sitting around in the attic for many years. Whatever the form, they are very important to us. We hold them dear as they are the clearest, most truthful memories we have.

A lot of times the films we have stored away in a closet can have imense value aside from the familial importance. Next time you are viewing these films ask the question, Are your film reels worth money? People have been filming everything from births to funerals and everything in between since the invention of the camera. Just consider the films that we have all seen of President Kennedy riding through Dallas on that fateful morning. These were ordinary folks who wanted to preserve a bit of history on their own, who now have a priceless piece of America's past. Think about all of the old home movies your family may have sitting around. Isn't it worth a look to discover that you too might own a piece of nostalgia? Some people have footage on old film reels of politicians, actors and other very important persons and may not even know it. Until you survey all of the old home movies you have you won't know if you are sitting on a piece of history or if someone famous was caught in the scene.

There is only one problem we are apt to run into concerning our dearest memories, they will disintegrate if not properly stored. Most of us aren't proffesional photographers so, we are ill prepared to keep these valuable items in the best condition. In today's world the DVD has taken over the film world. It is now possible to have your old film reels and videotapes converted to digital format. This is an excellent way to assure your family memories remain intact for many years to come.