Documentary L1

Lesson 1

Documentary is a broad term to describe a programme/film that in some way 'documents' or captures reality. They are usually used to reveal an unusual, interesting or unknown angles.

• Factual Programme - a genre of non-fiction TV programming that documents actual events and people.

• Strong and Interesting Premise - tells a good story, keeping the audience interested with solid points which back-up their premise.

• Characters - include interesting characters who are trying to achieve something.

• Voice-over/Presenter - this keeps the audience updated with videos and images whilst telling a story.

• Presentation of Facts - a programme will back up its statements with facts and evidence to add credibility. 

• Interviews/Experts - used to show realism and facts or give witness accounts making it more believable.

• Music - Often used to add different emotions to a programme, or heighten suspense.

• Use of suspense, concealing outcome - only revealing the outcome at the end of a  programme, keeping the audience interested throughout.

• Hand-held camera - Often used in programmes where they have to be on the move alot. Nothing is staged or set up. It keeps the audience ready for the next piece of action. Makes the audience feel involved with the action.

• Editing/Montage - a selection of short clips edited together, into a sequence to condense space, time and information. This adds information quickly or slowly (depending) and suggests a passage of time.

• Slow motion - slowing down the footage to heighten or accentuate a moment.

• Archive footage, films and photo's - using stored, or old footage and photo's withing the programme.