How long does it take to shoot a documentary?

Based on availability of people for interviews, supplemental filming, archival footage and research, and music scoring, it generally takes up to 8 weeks to edit and complete your personal documentary all depending on the scope of your film.

Why do documentaries use interviews?

Interviews are a main staple in most documentary films and we utilize them to communicate vital information about the story. They are testimonies that provide a strong sense of authenticity to our films. In many cases the interview is a powerful alternative to a more impersonal narration.

How do you structure a documentary?

Documentary Structure The Three-Act Documentary

1. Beginning | Act One. The beginning of the documentary needs to capture the audience’s attention.
2. Middle | Act Two. This is the main guts of your story.
3. End | Act Three. The ending of the documentary usually brings some kind of resolution to the questions and conflict established at the beginning of the film.

Where can I sell my documentary?

Consumers – Sell directly to the people interested in the documentary. For example, sell DVDs from your website or upload your documentary to a VOD (video on demand) service provider such as Vimeo and sell the film as a streaming download. You could also offer it through Amazon.com.

What is the difference between a documentary and a movie?

Documentary aims to educate, inform and inspire the viewers whereas feature films aim to entertain the audience. Documentary deals with facts and reality whereas feature films deal with fiction. This is the main difference between documentary and feature film.

What equipment do I need to shoot a documentary?

Essential Equipment for Making a Documentary

1. Video Camera. The video camera is the star of your filmmaking gear.
2. Lens.
3. Tripod or Camera Rig.
4. Lighting Gear.
5. Microphone Kit.
6. Portable Digital Audio Recorder.
7. Headphones.
8. File Storage Devices.

What makes a compelling documentary?

A good doc, in my opinion, must have the following: a subject anchored in a local story that is universal; a story arc comprising a seductive opening, a taut rising action, an unexpected but mind altering climax, a hopeful but not maudlin denouement; unforgettable characters who reveal everything and are “real”; a …

How do you promote a documentary?

1. Traditional PR. Produce a press release about your documentary project to send to mainstream and specialist media.
2. Internet and Social Media. Set up a website and social media accounts to promote your film.
3. Advertising. Buy media space.
4. Film and Television Festivals.

How much money can a documentary make?

The median profit from documentaries is very low. Probably $20K-$50K. But this is really hard to calculate because most docs that make money are picked up by cable channels like CNN or HBO or Al Jazerra, so they don’t generate box office sales, they generate ad income.

How do you review a documentary film?

1. Step 1 Give details of the documentary.
2. Step 2 Explain the purpose of the documentary.
3. Step 3 State your prior knowledge of the subject.
4. Step 4 Summarise the documentary.
5. Step 5 Talk about the sound effects, camera work, interviews and special effects.
6. Step 6 Give personal comments and recommendation.

How do you interview someone for a documentary?

5 Tips For Conducting a Successful Documentary Interview

1. Make your subject feel comfortable. Many subjects go into their interview nervous, especially when in front of a camera crew.
2. Establish clear expectations.
3. Don’t interrupt.
4. Have the subject repeat your question.
5. Take breaks.

Do documentary films make money?

Thanks! As a general rule, documentaries are not big money makers unless you’re Michael Moore. Of course there are always exceptions, but depending on your subject, there usually is simply not the mass audience for documentaries like there is with fiction films. Learn how to sell your documentary to Netflix.

How do documentary filmmakers make a living?

My Top 10 Tips For Making A Living With Documentary Filmmaking

1. Make the commitment.
2. Become a great fundraiser (or hire one)
3. Learn DIY Distribution.
4. Monetize Old Projects.
5. Pay Yourself.
6. Work with Established Production Companies.
7. Learn production skills.
8. Be Flexible.

How do you monetize a documentary?

Here are the 7 ways documentary filmmakers can maximize their self-distribution or direct distribution strategy.

1. Focus on core audiences.
2. Prioritize relationships.
3. Design a conference strategy.
4. Explore underwriting.
5. Create desirable products.
6. Use email marketing to increase sales.
7. Build a distinctive brand.

Do interviewees get paid for documentaries?

We normally associate payment with actors – and people in documentaries are not supposed to be actors. That said – there are many ways participants get “paid” without getting paid. These are usually in the form of stipends – and given as compensation for time, travel or expenses.