It generally takes several months to research,write and produce an illustrated biography which may then be professionally printed in full colour and elegantly bound. The process involves a series of interviews which are recorded word for word, then transcribed and edited using the subject's original speech patterns and direct quotes where possible.

Help from the extended family, friends and the community to source relevant photos, newspaper cuttings and family trees is invaluable during this time, as are their personal memories and independent observations.

Typically, the process involves three stages:

Stage I - Contacting the People

• Recording interviews with the client
• Contacting secondary interviewees such as friends, family and colleagues for their personal contributions
• Undertaking any necessary additional research

Stage 2 - Writing the Story

• Transcribing the interviews and penning the draft manuscript
• Sourcing and scanning relevant photos and documents
• Getting client sign-off on the manuscript
• Incorporating changes on return of proof

Stage 3 - Producing the Document

• Proof reading the corrected manuscript
• Designing the layout and cover
• Getting client sign-off on the illustrated manuscript
• Printing and binding of the manuscript to an agreed format