Before you turn on the camera, set yourself up for success. Do your research and try to figure out what your story is, even if you don’t know it yet. Learn as much as you can about the people you spend time with or the topic so you can ask informed questions.
The type of research you need to do depends on your topic. For a historical documentary, expect to spend a lot of time in libraries or historical society archives. As for a film about the destruction of the Amazon rainforest, you can learn a lot online and over the phone, but eventually you’ll have to pack your bags (and bug spray) and go talk to people on the ground.
Gather archival materials
During your research, you can find relevant archival materials. You can also ask interviewees to show any old photos or videos they may have that they are willing to let you use.
Summarize the story
Although documentaries are not scripted like fictional narratives, you will create an outline or even a storyboard to think about the shots needed and the possible directions the story might take. Sometimes I write a storyline to help introduce myself to the story or to help stakeholders understand the type of story I’m going to create.
Imagine what a film should look like
The truthfulness of documentaries doesn’t mean they can’t have style. You can create an inspiration board and compile visual references that help you present the film. You can even think about the types of shooting plans you want to use. You learn and change throughout this process, but if you approach it from a certain point of view, in many cases you will stay true to it.
