 Exploring Google NotebookLM's Data Table Feature for Genealogy One of the most exciting aspects of using AI tools in genealogy is how quickly they evolve. Just when you think you’ve explored all the current features, something new appears that can genuinely change how you work. That’s exactly what happened last month. While attending an AI for Genealogy presentation, I noticed a slide showing NotebookLM with a button I had never seen before: “Data Table.” Since I had been using NotebookLM just days earlier, it immediately caught my attention. Sure enough, when I checked the next morning, the feature was live—and it had only been released two days earlier, on December 18. After testing it with an existing genealogy notebook, I can confidently say this is a very promising new tool for genealogists.  NotebookLM Data Table Option in the Studio Example What Is the NotebookLM Data Table Feature? The new Data Table feature allows NotebookLM to automatically extract structured information from your notebook and generate a clean, organized table within seconds. With a single click, NotebookLM:
While you can customize the table if you wish, I opted for the automatic option during my first test—and the results were impressive. Testing the Feature with Real Genealogy Data To test the Data Table feature, I used an existing NotebookLM notebook for my 2nd great-grandparents, John William Taylor and Sarah Stubbins, including their children, parents, and related records. Within seconds, NotebookLM generated a table with the following column headings:
Not only was the data laid out clearly and logically, but NotebookLM also included all sources used as footnotes at the bottom of the table. For genealogists, this is a critical and very welcome detail.  NotebookLM Data Table Output Example Instant Export to Google Sheets One of the standout benefits of this feature is how easily the data can be reused. With a single click, the table can be exported directly to Google Sheets—almost instantly. This opens up tons of possibilities, including:
For genealogists who already use spreadsheets as part of their workflow, this integration alone makes the feature incredibly useful.  NotebookLM Data Table Automatic Export to Google Sheets Example Why This Matters for Genealogists The real value of the Data Table feature isn’t just speed—it’s structure. Genealogists often work with:
Being able to take all of that information and instantly convert it into a structured, source-linked table is a major time-saver. While the output should always be reviewed and verified (as with any AI-generated content), it provides an excellent starting point for analysis, reporting, and visualization. This feature is especially promising for:
Breaking down complex research into manageable views Another Big Win for NotebookLM NotebookLM continues to evolve quickly, and this new Data Table feature is another strong example of how AI tools are becoming more practical—and more genealogy-friendly. If you’re already using NotebookLM for research notes, source analysis, or case studies, this feature is well worth exploring. And if you’re new to NotebookLM, the Data Table option alone makes it an excellent tool to add to your genealogy toolbox. As always, AI works best when paired with solid genealogical methodology—and this feature fits perfectly into that approach. More AI and GenealogyLearn about more AI in Genealogy updates, tips, and resources, along with other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. #Genealogy #FamilyHistory #AIinGenealogy #GoogleNotebookLM #GenealogyTech #GenealogyTools #GenealogyInnovation
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1/11/2026 Would You Animate Your Ancestors’ Photos? What Genealogists Really Think About AIRead Now AI and genealogy collide as family historians debate animating ancestor photos What a Facebook Poll Reveals About Memory, Ethics, and AI in GenealogyEvery so often, I return to a style of blog post I truly enjoy—one rooted in social genealogy, where community conversations themselves become a source worth examining. This week’s blog grew out of a simple Facebook poll I posted on Friday, January 11, 2026: Would you use AI to animate your ancestors’ photos?
What followed was not just a tally of votes, but a thoughtful, emotionally layered discussion that highlights where genealogists—and family historians more broadly—currently stand with AI-generated photo animation. What struck me most was not which answer won, but why people felt the way they did. A Community Divided—But ThoughtfulThe responses fell fairly clearly into the three poll categories, yet very few answers were flippant. Even those who chose a firm “no” often articulated deeply held values about memory, authenticity, and responsibility. “Yes” — Curiosity, Connection, and EmotionThose open to animating ancestor photos often framed it as:
Several people emphasized joy—seeing a smile, a blink, or a subtle movement that made an ancestor feel momentarily present. Others noted that they were comfortable animating photos of ancestors from long before their own lifetimes, but not relatives they personally remembered. For these respondents, AI animation was described as emotional storytelling, not documentation. “Maybe” — Fascinated, But UncomfortableThe “maybe” responses were some of the most detailed. Common themes included:
Several people stressed clear labeling—making sure that any AI-altered image was explicitly identified as such. Others described mixed emotional reactions, especially when animating images of close relatives, noting that the experience could feel sad, uncanny, or unexpectedly intense. This group seems to occupy the growing middle ground in genealogy’s AI conversation: open to experimentation, but anchored by ethical guardrails. “No” — Preservation, Authenticity, and ContextThose firmly opposed to animating ancestor photos expressed strong and consistent reasoning:
Many respondents drew a clear distinction between minor restoration (such as sharpening or repairing damage) and transformative changes like animation or colorization. For them, animation crossed a line—from preservation into invention. A recurring concern was accuracy. Eyes, mouths, and facial movements were frequently mentioned as areas where AI “gets it wrong,” making the result feel less like a loved one and more like a digital approximation. An Important Observation One particularly interesting note: The first wave of responses came from an AI-focused genealogy group, yet even within that audience—people already comfortable with AI tools—the reactions were far from universally enthusiastic. That alone is telling. It reinforces that acceptance of AI in genealogy is not all-or-nothing. Genealogists may embrace AI for transcription, analysis, clustering, or restoration—while simultaneously rejecting its use in other areas. The Real Issue Isn’t Technology—It’s Trust At its core, this conversation is not really about animation software. It’s about:
Many respondents—across all three answers—agreed on one crucial point: Transparency matters. If AI is used:
This mirrors long-standing genealogical best practices. We already distinguish between original records and transcriptions, abstracts, interpretations, and hypotheses. AI-generated images simply introduce a new category—one that requires even clearer explanation. Where I Land (and Why It Matters) As someone who works extensively with AI in genealogy, I find these conversations essential. AI can be:
Animating an ancestor’s photo can be meaningful, moving, and even beautiful--if it is treated as a modern interpretation, not a historical truth. And it is equally valid to say: this is not for me. Final Thoughts This poll reminded me why community discussions are so valuable in genealogy. There is no single “right” answer—only thoughtful choices rooted in respect, context, and intention. Whether you answered yes, maybe, or no, one thing was clear: Genealogists care deeply about how family history is preserved, presented, and passed on. And that, more than any tool or technology, is what truly matters. Have you ever animated an ancestor’s photo—or chosen not to? Conversations like this are shaping the future of genealogy, one thoughtful decision at a time. More AI and GenealogyLearn about more AI in Genealogy under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
12/28/2025 Combining Google NotebookLM’s Slide Deck with Google Slides and Google Vids: A Fast, Powerful New Workflow for GenealogistsRead Now Combining Google NotebookLM’s Slide Deck with Google Slides and Google Vids: A Fast, Powerful New Workflow for Genealogists Every once in a while, a new tech discovery comes along that changes the way we share our family history—instantly, unexpectedly, and in the best way possible. The day the Slide Deck feature came out was one of those days. Google NotebookLM quietly rolled out two new features: Infographic and Slide Deck. After spending most of that morning testing them (using my 2nd great-grandfather, Samuel Steinman, as my official “AI ancestor tester”), I was already impressed with what they could produce. Then, something even more exciting happened: I discovered a simple workflow that turns those auto-generated Slide Decks into fully narrated videos within minutes—and all for free. This combination of tools opens a brand-new door for genealogists who want to share family histories creatively, quickly, and beautifully. Here’s how it works. Step 1: Generate a Slide Deck in Google NotebookLM The new Slide Deck option in NotebookLM creates a clean, nicely structured presentation directly from your notebook content. In my test case, I used a notebook full of research notes and analysis on my 2nd great-grandfather, Samuel Steinman, and the resulting deck provided:
 NotebookLM to Instant Videos with Vids, Example 1 Step 2: Save Each Slide's PNG for FlexibilityTo make the slides editable and usable across multiple platforms, I saved each slide of the slide deck's PNG images (you can also save each slide of the PDF as an individual PNG image). This only takes a moment, and once done, you’re free to:
 NotebookLM to Instant Videos with Vids- PDF or PNGs Download the PDF of the slide deck and convert them to images, or expand the slide deck and save each PNG image from the slide deck itself, as seen above and below.  NotebookLM to Instant Videos with Vids- Expanded Slide Deck View Step 3: Import the PNG Slides into Google Slides Once the images were ready, I uploaded them into a blank Google Slides presentation—one image per slide. This creates a clean, ready-to-use slide show version of your NotebookLM Slide Deck. This step is fast, and it sets up the real magic that follows.  NotebookLM to Instant Videos with Vids- Importing NLM Slide Decks to Google Slides Step 4: Pull Your Google Slides into Google Vids This is the part that surprised me. Google Vids now allows you to import your Google Slides directly—and once you do, it automatically builds a complete narrated video from your slides in a matter of seconds. The results include:
In under a minute, my Slide Deck on Samuel Steinman transformed into a polished ancestor video—without any editing, recording, or design work on my end.  NotebookLM to Instant Videos with Vids- Coverting NLM Slide Decks in Google Vids  NotebookLM to Instant Videos with Vids- Outcome of Google Vids Automatically Coverting Google Slides NotebookLM to Instant Videos with Vids- Final Video Product Why This Workflow Is a Game-Changer for Genealogy This simple chain--NotebookLM Slide Deck → PNG Slides → Google Slides → Google Vids—opens a fast, low-effort way to produce beautiful, engaging family history content. Genealogists can now create:
For professionals, it can add a polished, optional supplement to project deliverables (with a note about citation limitations, of course). For hobbyists, it makes sharing family stories with relatives easier and more exciting than ever. Final Thoughts That day of discovery felt like stumbling into an entire new genealogy storytelling toolset. The automation, speed, and quality make this workflow truly stand out—and I can already see endless uses for it in family history work. If you haven’t explored these new features yet, I highly recommend giving them a try. The possibilities are incredible, and you may find, like I did, that a simple test becomes an entirely new way of bringing your ancestors to life. More AI VideosMore AI and GenealogyLearn about more AI in Genealogy updates, tips, and resources, along with other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. #Genealogy #FamilyHistory #AIinGenealogy #GoogleNotebookLM #GenealogyTech #GenealogyTools #GenealogyInnovation
12/20/2025 Ancestry Expands Its AI Record Explore Feature: Introducing Listen and Explore (Beta)Read Now Ancestry Expands AI Record Explore with New “Listen and Explore” Feature (Beta) Back in April of 2024, I introduced Ancestry’s first major step into AI-powered record interpretation in my blog post, Ancestry’s New AI Record Explore Feature! At the time, the feature provided AI-generated summaries of individual records—an exciting development that helped genealogists better understand what a record contained and how their ancestor appeared within it. Fast forward to now, and Ancestry has taken that concept several steps further with a new, expanded beta feature: Listen and Explore. This enhancement builds on the original AI Record Explore tool by transforming static records into richer, more contextual narratives about our ancestors’ lives. I recently tested this new feature using my 2nd great-grandfather, Samuel Steinman, and his 1920 U.S. census record, and the results were genuinely impressive.  Ancestry AI Listen and Explore Record Feature- Example What Stays the Same: AI Record Summaries At its core, the feature still includes an AI-generated summary of the record, clearly explaining:
 Ancestry AI Listen and Explore Record Feature- Example 1, Summary What’s New: “Listen to Their Story” The biggest enhancement is the addition of a “Listen to their story” option. This feature expands well beyond a simple summary and provides a narrative-style explanation that includes:
Even better, this narrative is downloadable, making it especially useful for:
 Ancestry AI Listen and Explore Record Feature- Example 2, Listen to Their Story “Explore What Shaped Their Life”: A Dynamic Research Companion Another standout addition is the “Explore what shaped their life” section. Using Samuel Steinman’s 1920 census record, Ancestry presented me with four thematic topics to explore further. What was particularly interesting is that these options changed each time I revisited the feature, offering new angles and research prompts. Some of the topics I was offered included:
This rotating selection encourages deeper thinking and prevents the experience from feeling repetitive.  Ancestry AI Listen and Explore Record Feature- Example 3, Explore What Shaped Their Life  Ancestry AI Listen and Explore Record Feature- Example 3, Explore What Shaped Their Life 1  Ancestry AI Listen and Explore Record Feature- Example 3, Explore What Shaped Their Life 2  Ancestry AI Listen and Explore Record Feature- Example 3, Explore What Shaped Their Life 3 Footnotes, Sources, and a Very Pleasant Surprise Clicking on Occupation in butcher shops (in two slightly different versions) produced two similar but not identical explorations—and both included footnotes at the bottom. This is where the feature really shines. In the first version, the cited sources included:
In the second version, the sources included:
Each exploration also includes a copy function, making it easy to save, reuse, or adapt the content. The Drawback: Speed As exciting as this feature is, it does come with one notable drawback: it is slow. Clicking on “Listen and Explore” can take a significant amount of time to load. In some cases, the delay is long enough that users may assume the feature isn’t working at all, as I did at first, and navigate away. This may be a beta-stage issue, and while understandable, it’s worth noting so users know to be patient while the AI processes the request. Final ThoughtsAncestry’s Listen and Explore feature is a meaningful evolution in how genealogists interact with records. Rather than simply extracting facts, this tool helps:
If you haven’t explored this feature yet, it’s well worth your time—just be sure to give it a moment to work. More Ancestry and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more Ancestry updates, tips, tools, and features and other family history and genealogy resources under the Genealogy Resources category and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
12/7/2025 Exploring Google NotebookLM’s New Infographic and Slide Deck Features for GenealogyRead Now Exploring Google NotebookLM’s New Infographic and Slide Deck Features for Genealogy Google NotebookLM has been rolling out new tools rapidly over the past year, but a couple of weeks ago brought one of the most exciting updates yet: two brand-new features designed to turn your research into highly engaging visuals--Infographic and Slide Deck. These were not available even a day before when I generated a family history narrative for a client. Naturally, I had to test them right away. To get a clear picture of what these tools can do, I used my long-running Steinman Family Notebook. This notebook focuses on my second great-grandfather, Samuel Steinman, his wife, their children, and brief notes on early descendants. It includes research, notes, sources, timelines, context, and more, and I have used it as my controlled “tester ancestor” since last May to evaluate various AI features. These two new tools did not disappoint. In fact, they may be the most exciting additions to NotebookLM so far—especially for those of us who want to make family history more accessible and appealing to relatives who tend to “glaze over” when reading long narratives. The Infographic Feature: A Family Story in One Visual The new Infographic feature generated a clean, concise, and eye-catching summary of the Steinman family. It captured the major life events, relationships, and themes in a single, well-organized layout. What stood out most was how accurately it distilled the family’s history. In one view, it presented key milestones, family dynamics, and important historical context—exactly the kind of visual summary that can help non-genealogists understand a family story in seconds. There were two small hiccups worth noting:
These minor inconsistencies didn’t detract from the overall usefulness of the infographic. For quick summaries, family sharing, or visual storytelling, this new feature is incredibly promising.  The Steinman Family American Story- NotebookLM Infographic Day 1 Test, November 22, 2025 The Slide Deck Feature: A Full Visual Presentation of Family History Next, I tested the brand-new Slide Deck feature. This one truly impressed me. NotebookLM automatically created a multi-slide presentation--15 slides in total—based on the Steinman Notebook. Each slide focused on a different piece of the family’s story, turning the narrative into an easy-to-follow visual journey. The slides included:
Each slide felt like a standalone infographic, which made the entire deck engaging and easy to read. I could immediately imagine relatives finally showing interest because of how approachable and visual this format is. There was only one noticeable hiccup: one slide stated that all five children survived to adulthood while also noting that one child died in infancy. A simple contradiction, but the only one across the entire deck. Even so, the overall quality was excellent. This feature has incredible potential for storytellers, genealogists, family historians, and anyone trying to present complicated information in a way people will actually want to look at. Why These New Tools Are Game-Changers for Genealogy Both of these features point toward an emerging trend: AI tools are becoming more visually oriented and more capable of transforming dense research into formats that connect with modern readers. For genealogists, this means:
Best of all, these tools work instantly, and they draw on the information already in your NotebookLM collections. That means you can generate multiple visual formats from the same research without starting from scratch. As more families lean toward quick, visual content, these features offer a meaningful way to bridge the gap between our research and the people we want to reach. More AI and Genealogy Learn about more AI in Genealogy updates, tips, and resources, along with other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. #Genealogy #FamilyHistory #AIinGenealogy #GoogleNotebookLM #GenealogyTech #GenealogyTools #GenealogyInnovation
 Testing Google NotebookLM’s new AI video feature for family history and ancestor storytelling If you read my earlier blog post on Google NotebookLM for Genealogy, you know how impressed I was with its ability to organize research, create summaries, generate timelines, and even produce audio overviews and podcasts from uploaded research, notes, sources, and more. Well, there’s an exciting new update that takes things a step further—and it’s one genealogists are going to love. Google NotebookLM has recently introduced a video generation feature, and I had the chance to test it out quite a few weeks ago. The result? A surprisingly powerful and creative new way to share your research and tell your ancestors’ stories. What’s New: Video Creation in Google NotebookLM NotebookLM’s latest feature allows users to automatically generate videos from the materials within their notebooks. Using your uploaded content—whether that’s family history notes, ancestor profiles, research summaries, or even blog posts—the AI can now create visually engaging, narrated videos that summarize and bring your work to life. You can upload:
Once your sources are uploaded, the AI processes your uploaded content and crafts a dynamic video complete with text narration, visuals, and effortless transitions. You can customize the tone and style, edit the output, or even download and refine it further in your preferred video editor. My Test Projects To see what it could really do, I tested the feature using two of my existing projects—both of which I had already created while exploring NotebookLM’s earlier capabilities. 1. The Life and Times of Samuel Steinman You may recognize this one from my previous blog—Samuel Steinman, my 2nd great-grandfather, is my official AI ancestor tester! This project already contained a rich mix of uploaded materials, including:
2. African American and Native American Research (Client Case) For a second test, I used an existing client project notebook that focused on a dual-heritage case study. Instead of starting from scratch, I simply uploaded my case notes, ancestor profiles (with tons of facts, details, and sources), and a blog post on that case into the notebook. NotebookLM used it to generate a compelling video titled “A Grandmother’s History,” highlighting key moments from the research in an accessible and visual format. The end result showed real potential for client work, offering a fresh and engaging way to share discoveries beyond the traditional written report. Why This Feature Is a Game-Changer for Genealogists The new video generation tool isn’t just fun to experiment with—it’s genuinely useful for a range of genealogical purposes: 🎞️ 1. Storytelling Made Easy Turn your ancestors’ research files, notes, and timelines into short, captivating videos. Perfect for family reunions, online sharing, or preservation projects. 🗂️ 2. Project Summaries Quickly create visual summaries of client research or ongoing projects to share progress or updates in a professional, creative format. 🎙️ 3. Companion to Audio Overviews Pair NotebookLM’s existing audio overview feature with the new video output to create both podcast and video versions of your work—ideal for multi-format storytelling. 🧬 4. Educational and Presentation Uses For genealogical educators and speakers, this feature offers new ways to present case studies or historical examples in a visual and engaging way, possibly using them for video blogs. 👩💻 5. Enhanced Family History Sharing Not everyone wants to read a 20-page narrative or research report. With these videos, you can share your family stories with relatives in a format they’ll actually watch and enjoy. Creative Possibilities for the Future The ability to turn your compiled notes, research, and documents into a video has tremendous potential for genealogists, educators, and storytellers. You could:
Final Thoughts Testing this new feature was a lot of fun. Seeing my ancestor Samuel Steinman’s story transformed into “The Steinman Family” video—and my client’s “A Grandmother’s History” brought to life—was incredibly rewarding. It’s one thing to read an ancestor’s timeline; it’s another to watch it unfold before your eyes, told in a narrative voice, backed by visuals that highlight the journey of discovery. This new video capability opens up endless creative possibilities for genealogists, family historians, and educators alike. Whether you’re preserving stories for your family, creating educational materials, or experimenting with AI-powered storytelling, Google NotebookLM is quickly becoming one of the most innovative tools available to us. Have you tried creating videos with NotebookLM yet? I’d love to hear how you’re using it in your own research or storytelling! More AI VideosSee more AI video testers and examples on my YouTube channel. More AI and Genealogy Learn about more AI in Genealogy updates, tips, and resources, along with other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. #Genealogy #FamilyHistory #AIinGenealogy #GoogleNotebookLM #GenealogyVideos #GenealogyTech #GenealogyTools #GenealogyInnovation
 Using Google NotebookLM’s report features to enhance genealogy work Have you explored Google’s NotebookLM lately? If not, you’re in for a surprise. In just a few short months, it has rolled out a ton of new features — including something that immediately caught my eye: Reports. These preset, research-based templates automatically generate summaries, narratives, and even biographical sketches directly from your uploaded materials. Naturally, I had to see what it could do for genealogy research. Testing the New Report Formats When I opened NotebookLM to test out the new video overview feature, I noticed the addition of a Report section — something that wasn’t there the last time I explored it back in May and June. The new section offers several preset report themes (you can also choose Custom and input your own prompt), each already built with a distinct writing style and purpose. What’s especially interesting is that NotebookLM doesn’t just create a format — it actually chooses the topic based on the content you’ve uploaded. The first option I tested was the Historical Narrative Report, which automatically selected my great-grandparents, Cora Alice Taylor and Edmond Cole Steinman, as the focus. The result was a detailed six-page narrative that wove together years of research into a cohesive story — complete with historical context and biographical highlights. While the tone wasn’t exactly my own (a bit more academic and formal than my typical writing), it did an excellent job organizing, summarizing, and connecting information. It’s impressive to see AI pull together genealogical data into a complete, research-based family narrative.
Personal Story and Biographical Sketch Reports Next, I tried the Personal Story report option. This one, again automatically generated, chose my great-grandmother as the subject. The focus shifted to her personal journey and experiences, rather than the couple’s shared life. Then came the Biographical Sketch format, which NotebookLM titled “A Research-Based Biographical Sketch of the Taylor and Steinman Families.” This one took a broader approach — summarizing key facts and life events across multiple generations. It was almost like a “family summary report,” offering a high-level overview of several branches at once. Each of these formats demonstrated NotebookLM’s growing ability to interpret, organize, and write from complex genealogical notes, timelines, and records. Creating Custom Reports One of the most exciting additions is the “Create Your Own” option. This feature lets users design their own report from scratch or modify an existing preset. To test it, I copied the automatically generated text from the Historical Narrative report and repurposed it using my own chosen couples — my 2nd great-grandparents and my 3rd great-grandparents. NotebookLM successfully reshaped the text to fit the new subjects while maintaining the same structure and flow. This custom feature is especially useful for genealogists who prefer to keep their own tone and perspective while still using AI as a framework to organize their material. More Report Types (and What’s Coming Next) Along with the Historical Narrative, Personal Story, Biographical Sketch, and Create Your Own options, there are several other preset reports. Some are reimagined versions of older features that used to stand alone but are now neatly grouped under the Report category. One that particularly caught my attention — and that I plan to test next — is the “Blog” report option. This format could be a real time-saver for genealogists who write family stories, project updates, or research summaries online. If the existing report types are any indication, it could be a useful draft generator for writers who want to spend more time polishing than structuring. Final Thoughts The new Report options in Google NotebookLM is another leap forward for AI-assisted genealogy writing. These tools don’t just summarize data — they organize it, interpret it, and transform it into readable family narratives in minutes. Of course, while AI can’t replicate the unique storytelling voice or emotion genealogists can bring to their writing, it’s becoming an incredibly valuable assistant for structuring and streamlining the process. I’ll be diving deeper into the Blog report format next and sharing how genealogists can use it to make writing family histories faster and easier — without sacrificing the personal touch. Stay tuned! 💬 Have you tested out the new NotebookLM Report options yet? I’d love to hear your impressions and how you’re using AI in your genealogy writing. More AI and GenealogyLearn about more AI in Genealogy updates, tips, and resources, along with other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page. #Genealogy #FamilyHistory #AIinGenealogy #GoogleNotebookLM #GenealogyWriting #GenealogyTech #GenealogyTools #GenealogyInnovation
 Crafting fictionalized family letters in genealogy with AI, using ChatGPT-5 Even when we have detailed genealogical research, we often lack the most personal artifacts—letters, journals, or conversations. While we can’t recreate these exactly, we can use documented facts to write fictionalized letters that feel authentic to the time, place, and relationship, while remaining transparent about what’s imagined. For my research on Samuel Steinman (1855–1925), I tested ChatGPT-5’s ability to write a series of period-appropriate letters based on known facts about his life, his family, and his travels for work. 1) The Concept These letters are not invented out of thin air. They’re based on:
2) Example: Samuel Writes to Hattie, 1910 I know from records that in the spring of 1910, Samuel was temporarily in El Dorado, Kansas, working as a butcher, while his wife Hattie and two youngest children remained in Albany, Missouri. This scene became the basis for a fictionalized letter. Excerpt: El Dorado, Kansas – April 12, 1910 My dearest Hattie, The mornings here start earlier than I expected. The market bell rings just as the sun breaks the horizon, and before long the air is heavy with the smell of fresh beef and sawdust. Business is steady, though I find myself glancing out toward the street more often than I should, thinking of home. Tell Arthur and Lillie I am saving them each a peppermint stick from the mercantile, and please keep an eye on the garden until I return. Yours always, Sam
3) Why This Works for Genealogy Writing
4) How GPT-5 Helped
5) Could Older ChatGPT Do This? Yes--GPT-4 could produce fictionalized letters, but GPT-5 improved in:
6) Practical Tips (if you want to try this)
Quick-Start Prompt for Fictionalized Family LettersAnd because many seem to ask; although, it is no longer necessary to craft the perfect prompt, here is a prompt you can utilize to generate this: Write a historically accurate fictionalized letter based on the ancestor details below. Keep the tone, wording, and daily-life details appropriate for the time and place. Use only the confirmed facts I provide, and fill in small everyday details that fit the era. Label the final result as a fictionalized letter inspired by historical research. Ancestor Name: [Insert Name] Writing To: [Insert Name] Date/Year: [Insert] Location: [Insert] Known Facts: [Insert key details (or upload your research notes, timelines, ancestor profiles, etc.)—job, family members, where they lived, what was happening at the time] Write the letter as something this person could realistically have written during this period. More AI and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more AI in Genealogy and other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
11/2/2025 Immersive Genealogy with ChatGPT-5: Turning Research into “A Day in the Life” StoriesRead Now Bringing ancestor research to life with immersive storytelling, with the help of ChatGPT and AI Genealogical research can give us the facts about an ancestor’s life—but those facts alone don’t always help readers picture the world they lived in. That’s where immersive storytelling can make history feel alive. For my research on Samuel Steinman (1855–1925), my official AI tester ancestor, I tested ChatGPT-5’s ability to take verified facts and create short narrative scenes imagining what an ordinary day in his life might have been like. Then, I paired each scene with a historical context blurb so whoever is reading enjoys both the immersive moment and the educational background. 1) A Day in the Life ScenesWhat they are: Short, stand-alone portraits that place the reader right beside the ancestor in a specific time and place. These aren’t fictional in the sense of “made-up events”—they’re built from factual research (your research) about where the ancestor was, what they were doing, and what their environment was like. Example: Albany, Missouri, Spring 1910 — Samuel’s hands worked quickly, trimming the fat from a slab of beef as the morning rush began at the market. The wooden counter smelled faintly of sawdust from the day before, and the bell over the door jingled with each new customer. He glanced out the window toward the dusty street, thinking of Hattie tending the garden back home. Why I use them:
How GPT-5 helped:
2) Historical Context Blurbs What they are: Brief factual side notes that explain the real-world background to each scene—placed directly after the short narratives so they feel connected, not like an appendix. Example paired with the above scene: Historical Context – Butchering in Missouri, 1910 In the early 20th century, local butchers were central to small-town economies. Shops often relied on deliveries from nearby farms, and refrigeration was limited to iceboxes. Skilled butchering meant not just cutting meat but also advising customers on the best cuts for stews, roasts, or Sunday dinners. Why I use them:
How GPT-5 helped:
3) Pairing Scenes and Context for Maximum ImpactWhen paired, the scene and context work together like this:
This approach creates a “Life in Scenes” section that’s especially engaging for books and blogs because it blends the emotional connection of narrative with the reliability of factual context. A Day in the Life Scenes ExampleThis is any example of one, of many, A Day in the Life Scenes of Samuel Steinman. *Click to zoom in
What GPT-5 Did Better (vs. earlier ChatGPT)
(Could older ChatGPT do this?) Yes--GPT-4 could write both scenes and context notes, but GPT-5 reduced the amount of rewriting I needed to align them in tone and detail. Practical Tips (if you want to replicate this)
PromptAnd because many seem to ask; although, it is no longer necessary to craft the perfect prompt, here is a prompt you can utilize to generate this: Prompt: Write a detailed “Day in the Life” story for [full name] in [year or period], based on the following known facts: [insert facts/research notes, etc. here—location, occupation, events, family, etc.]. Use historically accurate details about the time period, location, and occupation to make the scene vivid. Blend the documented facts with realistic daily activities for that era, but avoid adding major fictional events. Keep the tone immersive and narrative, as if the reader is experiencing the day alongside the person. Include sensory details (sounds, smells, sights) and interactions with family or community. More AI and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more AI in Genealogy and other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
10/25/2025 Meta AI Photo Animation for Genealogists: My Hands-On Tests & How It Can Bring Ancestor Photos to LifeRead Now Bringing ancestor photos to life — exploring Meta AI’s new photo animation tools for genealogists Meta AI Photo Animation for Genealogists: My Hands-On Tests & How It Can Bring Ancestor Photos to LifeAs genealogists, we’re constantly exploring tools that help us tell our ancestors’ stories in fresh, engaging ways. Recently, I had the opportunity to test one of Meta’s newest innovations--Meta AI’s photo animation feature—and I was genuinely impressed by its potential for genealogy and family history storytelling. This new tool can take a still image and bring it subtly to life—creating a short, moving video clip from a single photo. I wanted to see how it handled both vintage ancestor images and my own test photos—and to evaluate whether it could be useful (and ethical) in the genealogical space. What Is Meta AI and What Can It Do?Meta AI is the company’s integrated artificial intelligence system now available through Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, and Messenger. It can answer questions, generate content, edit or restyle images, and—most recently—animate photos. In August 2024, Meta announced that it had developed new methods to animate AI-generated or user-submitted images at scale across its platforms.1 This is part of Meta’s broader push to integrate generative AI directly into social experiences. My Hands-On TestsI first saw the Meta AI photo animation option appear in my Facebook feed as an invitation to try “Meta AI creations.” Naturally, I had to see what it could do. 1. Initial Test: I used a slightly older photo of myself, simply to test the feature’s capabilities. Meta AI quickly created a smooth, realistic animation and offered to “Restyle” it. Out of curiosity, I tried the Academia restyle (again, just on my own photo for testing). Within seconds, the scene changed—proof that the system could modify tone, color, and clothing while retaining realism.
2. Ancestor Photo Tests: After experimenting with my own photo just to see how Meta AI handled modern images, I moved on to what really mattered—testing it with vintage ancestor photos. The results honestly surprised me in the best way.
Each of these tests showed me that Meta AI’s animation feature has real potential for genealogy—especially when used thoughtfully and respectfully. It doesn’t replace the original photo, but it does offer a beautiful, emotional way to reconnect with our family’s past and share those memories with others. 3. Family Storytelling Potential: From four tests, I see enormous potential for genealogists:
Cost and AccessibilityCurrently, Meta AI’s animation feature is free to use for anyone with a Meta (Facebook or Instagram) account.2 I have not encountered any subscription requirements or limits at this time, but like most free tools, that could change in the future. You can try it by visiting meta.ai or accessing it through Facebook’s integrated “Meta AI” chat and image creation pop-ups. Risks and Limitations of Using Meta AIAs promising as the feature is, there are several risks and ethical considerations genealogists should be aware of—especially when working with historical or family photos.
How to Access and Try ItHere’s how to explore the feature yourself:
Final ThoughtsAfter several tests, I’m impressed with how well Meta AI handles vintage photos—particularly in maintaining facial integrity and creating natural movement. Used responsibly, this could become another tool in the genealogist’s creative storytelling kit. Still, I encourage genealogists to use it thoughtfully--with respect for authenticity, ethics, and privacy. Keep original copies safe, label animated versions clearly, and always disclose when motion was AI-generated. AI isn’t replacing historical truth—it’s helping us reimagine how we share it. Footnotes
More AI and Genealogy ResourcesLearn about more AI in Genealogy and other family history and genealogy resources under the AI in Genealogy and Genealogy Resources categories and on my dedicated Genealogy Resources page.
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Author, Diane HenriksHi, I'm Diane Henriks, a professional genealogist, speaker, author, investigator, and the founder of Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family who... Know Who Wears the Genes in Your Family: Family History and Genealogy BlogI hope my family history and genealogy blog on genealogy research tips, resources, events, and more, along with my own genealogy journeys, will help you in your research and in building your family tree to learn more about your ancestors and family history to preserve for future generations to come! Categories
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