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Video & Content Creation

Documentary Filmmaking

Tell Real Stories That Move People

12 lessons4 modules9h 0m durationbeginner level

Instructor: StretchLearn Faculty

About this course

Documentary filmmaking sits at the intersection of journalism, visual storytelling, and advocacy. This course builds the foundational toolkit every non-fiction filmmaker needs: how to identify and research a subject, conduct interviews that reveal truth on camera, shoot verite footage that captures life as it happens, and assemble footage into a structured, emotionally resonant film. Each module addresses a real production phase, using frameworks drawn from award-winning documentaries and festival-circuit best practices. No prior filmmaking experience is required β€” just curiosity, a camera, and a story you want to tell.

Curriculum

Module 1: Research, Development, and the Documentary Idea3 lessons
Module 2: Documentary Interview Technique3 lessons
  • Pre-Interview Research and Question ArchitectureπŸ”’45m
  • On-Camera Interview Setup and Directing TechniqueπŸ”’45m
  • Active Listening and the Follow-Up QuestionπŸ”’45m
Module 3: VΓ©ritΓ© Shooting and Cinematic Observation3 lessons
  • Handheld VΓ©ritΓ©: Movement, Stability, and AnticipationπŸ”’45m
  • Field Sound Recording for DocumentaryπŸ”’45m
  • Observational Patience and the Art of Waiting for MomentsπŸ”’45m
Module 4: Editing, Structure, and Distribution3 lessons
  • The Paper Edit: Organizing Footage Before You Touch the TimelineπŸ”’45m
  • Assembly Cut to Picture Lock: The Documentary Editing WorkflowπŸ”’45m
  • Music, Archival Clearance, and Distribution PathsπŸ”’45m
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