The documentary film is a modern cultural phenomenon. Aspiring directors work hard to make a documentary, and even harder to get the film noticed by movie distribution companies. Here is all the information you will need to start filming your first documentary.
- Skill level:
- Moderately Challenging
Instructions
Things you need
- Tripod
- Video editing equipment
- Digital camera
- Microphones
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1
Write a good documentary script, or team up with a writer who has already produced one.
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2
Create a shot-by-shot outline of the script and use this as your guide. A timeline is also beneficial.
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3
Lease or purchase a camera, tripod, microphones and video editing equipment. Without these basic tools, you will not have the means to make a documentary.
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4
Contact all of the people you want to interview and set up times to meet with them.
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5
Stick to your outline and relay the story. Film everything on the script.
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6
Film two or three times more footage than you expect to use. It can always be edited later.
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7
Edit the footage into a concise 90-minute film. Enlist the help of experienced documentary makers or editors to help you with this process.
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8
Write a documentary treatment, which includes a synopsis and other details about the film. Submit it to film distribution companies for consideration.
Tips and warnings
- Keep the camera still and focused. Too much zooming and panning will make your film look out of focus and amateur.
- Always carry a backup battery and charger. Nothing will kill the momentum of your filmmaking faster than a dead battery.
- In this age of digital photography, cameras are extremely inexpensive and produce high-quality footage.
- Relay the story as it unfolds; don't get caught up in pretty shots.
- Make sure you have a decent microphone. Microphones that come with most cameras are just not good enough. A boom mic or a large shotgun mic will be invaluable to you.
- Watch all of your footage every night. Keep tabs on what works for your documentary and what you will have to re-shoot.
- Be sure to back up your documentary with facts and figures if you are making any claims against other parties.
