Intro to Documentary Production

This hands-on class for new filmmakers focuses on how to plan, shoot and edit a short documentary. The class will introduce participants to visual storytelling by combining an interview with B-roll and still photos/archive images. The workshop will include hands-on experience with digital video cameras and the Adobe Premiere editing system.

Camera equipment and access to a computer lab with the Adobe Premiere editing system will be provided. Participants will work in small teams to produce a 3-minute documentary profile piece. Each team will develop their own subject. In addition to learning how to use the equipment, work in a small crew, and plan and structure your story, the class will focus on the interviewing process and filming B-Roll to create the short. Asking well thought out questions not only provides you with the information you’re looking for and helps structure the narrative of your video, it also develops trust and rapport with your subjects. Completed films will be screened at the 2024 Community Stories Film Festival.