A short documentary planning list with examples

Documentaries really are a way for any filmmaker to share a story near to their heart.


Documentaries are among the most accessible genres for filmmakers to create. That is because it will be possible for one individual to make an entire documentary themselves. The first step of documentary filmmaking is always to choose the topic and story, which should absolutely be something which the filmmaker is interested in. Research should also be performed during this period, to ensure the filmmaker is well-informed and understands whether or not the story is viable, as well as understanding what type of documentary the target audience really wants to see. They need to then gather their camera equipment, as making a documentary is mainly impossible without them, unless the whole thing is to be edited from current footage. A camera, microphone, and tripod is considered the most basic gear list, going back to the dawn of documentary filmmaking as Tim Parker will understand. Knowing the topic as well as the equipment limits means the filmmaker can now prepare their production and story framework, which determines what's going to need to be done to produce the movie.


In order to figure out how far the team is able to go a budget has to be created. Even a one person documentary film crew will likely be surprised just how much they will spend simply on surviving if their spending is unchecked. They also need certainly to think of prospective costs all the way through to the release of the film. Russell Barnes will be able to inform you that once the crew understand their limitations, they ought to then develop a shot list. This is a rough order of the various footage they anticipate filming. This will then result in the actioning of two different essential tasks. One is securing the legal and copyright permits of any footage they intend to use, and for filming places and permission from filmed people. One other is scheduling the shoot, that should be done in a way that maximises footage and minimises expense.


After what can be months of planning the actual recording process can start. It is vital to stick to the plan as near as possible, but to also have freedom. Back-up plans must be set up in case anything goes wrong and there should be freedom in place in case a better recording opportunity or story lead appears at the last minute. Tom Shebbeare is going to be well aware that a number of the most memorable documentaries are those that start out with one objective and get taken on a spontaneous and astonishing journey. As soon as all footage has been obtained, editing can start. This really is truly when a movie is created, specially as a lot of documentaries use layouts, music, and archive footage. Finally, the final project can be marketed and distributed, bringing it to audiences and potentially earning a profit.