#1: Decide on the story you want to tell. Think small. Stay focused. You are creating a 3-5 minute story with a beginning, a middle, and an end. You are not writing a book -- or even a term paper.

#2: Gather your materials. You may have family photographs or other memorabilia that you would like to use. Or you may want to take new photographs. Either will work. You can use what you have or you can start from scratch.

#3: Begin writing your script. It should be no longer than one and a half typed pages -- double spaced. Also: Remember that you will either be telling the story yourself -- in your own voice -- or using interviews or other narration. Don't take the easy way out and just use images and music. Listeners really prefer a personal touch.

#4: You will need most (or all) of the following equipment. Make sure that you have it on hand.

A camera: digital is easiest. A point and click is just fine. You can use a film camera, even a disposable. Just remember that then you will have to worry about scanning. This means doing the work yourself or paying someone else to do it for you.

A recorder with microphone (for interviewing or recording your own narrative).

Access to a computer for editing images and sound, and for producing and broadcasting your story.

Associated peripherals. A scanner, for example.

Software for photo and sound editing. We'll provide recommendations in upcoming eTips so be sure to subscribe now.

Software for multimedia production. We use Soundslides but there are other options.

#5: Match your images to your script. You may want to create a storyboard to help you.

#6: Use a photo editor to prepare your images.

#7: Edit your audio.

#8: Import all images and sound to your multimedia software.

#9: Add captions and credits.

#10: Share your story. Put it on the Internet for the world to enjoy!