Course

Unit I

Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking- Overview of documentary film history and genres, Exploring the role of the documentary filmmaker, Finding out the right content for Documentary Productions

Unit II

Developing a documentary concept and story, gathering background information, Writing proposals, scripts, Planning logistics budgeting, scheduling, and securing locations

Unit III

Documentary proposals and treatments; Visual Language, Composition, Interview preparation & techniques

Unit IV

Usage of Music and its importance, Editing concepts and principles; Technical instructions and hands-on exercises. Titling.

Unit V

Distribution and Promotion – Strategies for distributing documentaries through various platforms (festivals, streaming services, etc.) – Understanding legal aspects such as copyright and fair use, Fine cut and screening.

Course Objective:

Studying documentary filmmaking provides you with valuable skills in storytelling, research, visual communication, and technical production. By learning the art of documentary filmmaking, you can amplify your voice, raise awareness about important issues, and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

Course Outcomes (COs):

After completing the course, learners should be able to:

1. Identify major modes of documentary form, and the basic elements of documentary films, and critique their use.
2. Apply a deliberate structure, theme, point of view, and style to a short, documentary
3. Refine a documentary idea down to an engaging short, verbal pitch, and execute that
4. Work with basic technical proficiency in a range of areas of video production: operate a video camera and tripod, an audio recorder and microphone, and the editing system, controlling all technical functions, to produce a short documentary film.
5. Apply aesthetic concepts of cinematography, editing, and sound design to support a deliberate concept and vision in a short, documentary film.

CO – PO Mapping:

References:

1. Aufderheide, (2007). *Documentary film: A very short introduction*. Oxford University Press.
2. Bernard, C. (2010). *Documentary storytelling: Creative nonfiction on screen* (3rd ed.). Focal Press.
3. Hampe, (2007). *Making documentary films and videos: A practical guide to planning, filming, and editing documentaries*. Holt Paperbacks.
4. Nichols, B. (2017). *Introduction to documentary* (3rd ed.). Indiana University Press. Rabiger, , & Hurbis-Cherrier, M. (2020). *Directing the documentary* (7th ed.). Routledge.