4 Easy Steps to Film a Short Documentary

[@dukebozikowski3801]

1. Interview (aka SOT) 2. Voice over 3. B-roll 4. Natural Sound Break (ambience) but record it yourself

[@markrodriguez9442]

I could do both b roll and voice overs. Interview? I could get people to talk to me but idk about the natural sound break. Does it has to be real?

[@oumprod]

easy needed it for my school lol

[@shihableverutube]

You made it wonderful 👍

[@brentwpowell]

Truth to the whole B-roll “shoot more than you think you need” idea. I always wished I had more options to cover up interview edits.

[@Tore_Lund]

Rule of B-roll: Regardless of how much you think you need, you always realize during editing that you have anywhere form 30 seconds to 5 minutes too little of it. Solution; frantically search the internet for royalty free stock footage!

[@brentwpowell]

@@Tore_Lund Definitely more of an option today. The options weren't so good 3 years ago. I still prefer my own B-roll though, more cohesive and I like the idea that I can provide my clients/audience an authentic viewing experience. Not to say I won't use it! I produced a mini-doc last year that was 80% stock footage.

[@Tore_Lund]

@@brentwpowell Cheers, Yes the little secret, but nothing wrong with stock footage in principle. The main reason why this haunts me is I usually shoot B-roll as an afterthought after the main shoot, so whomever I'm with, expect to get a ride home immediately and as I have no Idea what the edit will feel like, I have no idea either of what exactly I need or how many mistakes I've made that need covering up. Only benefit is that everything is setup and lighting is the same. If I have enough time, I usually go out alone the day after, when I've completed the first rough edit and have a feel of the tone and rhythm of the edit, but as often there is no time for that and stock clips are the savior in the middle of the night.

[@DarkHourParanormal]

100% Always shoot more than you think you'll need.

[@SCOTTpilgrimist12]

This is by far the best iteration of Indy Mogul yet. So much high quality content, full of useful information and high production value. Thank you, guys

[@DANAMIONLINE]

Around 4:30, Griffin talks about shooting b-roll first to build a rapport with the subject first before the interview. I would like to add to this conversation by suggesting conduct pre-interviews over the phone or video chat. (Muse Storytelling has resources on this.) This is a great option to get to know the subject. This isn't always feasible but it is another tool in the kit of video making. Hopefully, this helps someone. Much love!

[@vistisfilm]

I saw this video and I thought wow, I'm so glad Indy Moguls back

[@nyazillagojira7079]

Totally, right there with Film Riot. I enjoy the easy laid back hang out feel. You dont always realize just how solid the info dense is. This is original learning "creating a space so you want to know more, instead of a Ben Stein-Beuller class monologue.

[@hogg1media627]

Also, one of the details I HAD TO LEARN was "record the air space you're in before shooting interviews.. " I've had moments of pure silence/no audio before a question was asked and it really made me focus on that as I watched it. But I edited that part by adding the space/air sound clip and BOOM. covered up that awkward silence. These are simple tips for us who are shooting this style. Thanks for the tips

[@kareemhayes9347]

I really like how you simplified this for the audience. I’m moving into the documentary space and this was very helpful.

[@nyazillagojira7079]

Yes, Originally not into Doc Video stuff. Just didnt sit well with me. I liked the story driven mentality. But this explanation shows its not so much different if done properly. Thanks for taking that weight off. Now i can practice more and not stress so about getting 'something' on film even just for practice.

[@SamLucas26]

I love that 3 of the 4 tips for documentary film making is about the audio. The video shows the story but the audio tells the story and provides the context for the film.

[@tiyanalynn1372]

Wow this was FABULOUS. I’m moving abroad, and during covid times, I want to make a personal docu of my family to look at when I’m homesick. This really helped me start to get some ideas! I’m really excited now, thanks for the knowledge and inspiration 😁

[@StravaigingMTB]

I find shooting B-Roll and getting useful stuff is a time earned skill. I often start a documentary project as a dual photo/video project, with the photography element being used to help define the visual look and tone of the doc that I am making. As the project matures the photography usually falls away and it becomes a pure video project. Great tuition as always Hammond thanks for sharing.

[@houseofceremoniesinc3349]

I feel I'm ready to go and I have never done any kind of documentary. Thank you for making this so simple.

[@Dangerouslyoptimystic]

This video has been on my watch later for a while and at first I didn’t want to watch it because I’m not currently going to film a documentary- or anything at all- but I found myself totally engaged with every moment of this video. You know what you’re doing and I love your advice.

[@AllThingsFilm1]

I've always wanted to make a mock-umentary. Now, I have the 4 basic elements I can incorporate to make it more convincing. Even if it is tongue in check. Thanks for this.

[@chutihudelle184]

I’m a freshman in the documentary shooting field , I have a documentary project recently which needs to be done and I was confused about how the hell should I shoot it . This video kinda educated me about how to shoot a documentary properly with clear examples. I subscribed this channel immediately after I finished watching it . Appreciate it badly !

[@fz.maelainin]

This is by far the most helpful video I've seen on documentary filmmaking!

[@gaylepilgrim309]

Thank you for making this overview for Beginner Producers!

[@GoldOrMyGrave]

You guys ALWAYS post a video about a subject that I happen to be involved with or purchasing at the moment you post it! It is so coincidental I love it!

[@allenmoore9848]

Narration is good to cover over footage when you wait for ages for a day off work and a perfect sunny day together, arrive at the local park only to find that it is the same day the council are cutting grass nearby and all you end up doing is competing against the sound of the tractor. In those situations I continue to film my subject as per normal then voice over later in my work room. It has saved me many times when unpredictable events occur. thanks for the great video Allen

[@NickGandolfi]

I attended the course online las t year and I can confirm it's fantastic, loaded of practical workflows, hints, tips, tricks. Felt very real, thank you Griffin ;)

[@mullercardenas]

Man that was incredibly useful. Will definitely apply these tips in my next project. Thank you for sharing them, Griffin!

[@katherinedemsky6037]

Hi Griffin, I'm on lock-down in Kathmandu where I manage a small organization, Bridges Between - Supporting Women's Education in Nepal. I produced a short, informational film over the winter about one of the schools we support. Now I am inspired to shoot one on my own. So many amazing stories here that really must be told. I dusted off my cameras and bought your 5 hour workshop! I'm off and running. Many thanks.

[@indymogul]

Let us know how the filming goes :)

[@stpatrickcentre7694]

Hello Katherine kindly visit our needy/orphans community school here in Kenya be our patron and support take more kids to school

[@stpatrickcentre7694]

Hello

[@CarnageCounts]

Thank you very much. This video was extremely helpful. Planning on doing a short documentary soon.

[@jojoowens9309]

Video is 2 yrs old but yet, one of the best educational ones I've seen yet. I'm about to start my 1st documentary about saving a small historical town in Mississippi, and this particular video has given me new looks towards my project. Thank you sir.

[@keithnisbet]

Thanks so much. I have to make a documentary probably no longer than 20 minutes but I have never done it before. It isn't to make money it's to preserve an incredible artists life time of work. This does help.

[@CarloTimothy]

This is why I'm subscribed! Classic Indy Mogul with a ton of information, no fluff, no excess. Just pure unadulterated Griffffffffinnnn! Love it. Please do more of these.

[@stanleygrace8614]

I enjoyed watching this, will watch it again when I'm in a quieter place. I'm actually shooting a short documentary soon for a school project, so I was doing some research

[@Brian-Hansen]

Thanks for this. Sometimes we forget the basics. Always good to be be reminded!

[@Havreringar]

It is great with someone that is on the point, no bs and with such quality content. Ace!

[@Reshae]

Thank you for this very informative, yet straight to the point video!

[@imaobongedukere3882]

Thank You Indy Mogul, you are so amazing! New learnings for me, SOT, VO's and NAT sound 🤩

[@naiduadi]

Hey Griffin, So good to see Indy Mogul back, had learnt a lot from you 5-6 years ago.

[@N1BNfilms]

Excellent tips. When I am shooting docs, I keep “PPT” in my mind. It is my improvised mental shot sheet reminding myself to look for these three elements to shoot: People, Places and Things. Usually for my B-roll shooting. The PPT gives me plenty of varied footage to use in the editing room to tell the story.

[@markrodriguez9442]

Almost like what Michael Moore would do when doing Bowling for Columbine, Fahrenheit 9/11 for example. PPT.

[@N1BNfilms]

Mark Rodriguez , oops ! A typo, it should have been PTT, push to talk.

[@OffTheDomeMediaGroup]

This was perfect timing. I'm in pre-production for a short documentary right now. I really needed this to give me a jump start. Oh, and I'm taking your class. Awesome video as always Griffin. Thanks.🤗

[@Sunny01331]

Don't be afraid to let you B-roll be your A-roll. Often times the misconception is that B means secondary when it is often the most used in the final product. Many documentaries are comprised entirely of "B-roll" and include no interviews or sometimes no voice over. It depends on the message you are trying to get across and the mode of documentary filmmaking you want to use for your subject.

[@jam06477]

Griffin, you are a base hit... thanks for posting this video!

[@mrjenybean]

Just watched the course this morning. Really useful stuff in there. I’m more of a tech head so can forget about the story element so that was super useful! Thanks

[@NYCAppl3]

Nat sound, I never thought about that and it makes a whole lot of sense. Thanks for putting this together!

[@andreasbulowhansen9413]

Thanks Griffin, always apprecciate your guides. There is One thing, however, I think needs to be added, which is what in Europe we Call 'reportage', i.e. real life action talking place in front of the camera without interference of the documentarian. It is not only included in Cinema Vérité, but is also frequently used in news and some documentaries as aform of Breaking the Sound of Tape sequences.

[@LemonExtras]

Griffin. Pls make a doc about the history of Indy mogul. The changing of hands, the impact on young filmmakers, etc.

[@lucian823]

LemonExtras that would be great !!

[@nyazillagojira7079]

That might actually be interesting idea i think. Go For It.

[@LemonExtras]

Brisdad53 I have. Been here since the beginning

[@Mintyseden]

I woke up this morning, thinking I should make a short documentary on a fashion designer I know. Then tuning in to KZbin on my way to work, finding these 4 tips. Great stuff.

[@whistlingdingoproductions3968]

All killer no filler. Thankyou!

[@theduallypumps]

I'm still in news and I'm sending this to all my freshman reporters. It's not the information but how succinctly you've stated it here. Great piece Griffin.

[@inneryard]

You did an interview with the camera in one hand and in the second hand the mic. Really awesome 👏

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Yeah, it takes practice. I usually use a lav mic. Interviews it's OK to show the mic. It's obviously not reality. Unless it's reality TV, where half the stuff IS staged.

[@jayviperdj]

Thank you. As someone at the very start of my journey I learned a lot from this. I am looking forward to creating my first project very soon. Will go to the site and purchase the crash course now.

[@taffy94]

Very Helpful and well put together. A class act. I'm just getting into video as an extension of my photography. From the little I've done so far I can definitely say I'm not shooting enough, either A or B roll, probably a hang over from my film based photography. Thanks

[@SZ-wt3nk]

This was great!!! I've been searching up how to make a documentary, and all i've been finding is info on distribution and funding. Very good knowledge however for me, I'm just trying to make a short doc for my english class! This video captured everything I needed!

[@TheToneWork]

Thanks for this. It's funny to me that so much time is spent on so many channels is spent on cameras and lenses and lighting, and so little time is spent on audio, which is at least as important. Thanks for this!

[@sundisc13]

Wonderful and thank you for sharing. I would add 5th essential step for the documentary which is STORY. I think is the most important.

[@MichaelRapp_Lichtgeplauder]

What a shameless plug! Sheesh... Scooted right over and picked up a copy :-) :-)) :-)) One of the best videos I've come across, thank you so much for sharing your insights! (and yes, I've already subscribed to the IndyMogul chanel, great to have you guys back)!

[@kevinlynch8614]

Awesome!! Currently in the process of working on an End Of Year review video that I'm doing in the documentary style, and I defintely learned a couple of new things here!

[@zwheels654]

I took your class on creative live and actually use this method for corporate filmmaking as well. I seriously owe you for how much you taught me through that class.

[@WeekendMotion]

Thanks to came back and show us lots of good things. me and my friends learns many things form your old youtube channel. Once again thanks.

[@danielashman1753]

Revolutionary stuff. A documentary includes interviews. Good to know.

[@jarodgatson361]

Great Job breaking that down!! You've reinforced some of the things I was doing aimlessly and definitely pointed me in the right direction. Great content, thank you, and keep up the awesome work!

[@rasmus9311]

I was just watching some Indy Mogul videos for the first time in years a couple of days ago and thinking hmm would be sweet to see Indy Mogul with a new logo, and here we are a couple of days later, a new logo and new video.

[@adamd416]

This is what I’m looking for as far a content. Excellent work.

[@MrFakhar59]

Thank you so much for making such a beautiful lecture and easy for beginners just like me.I am from Pakistan and have a great interest in rural life and want to improve it so for this purpose I am learning to make documentary by watching your videos. I wish that I attend your lecture in your class.

[@rayt_visual]

Nice talk. Yea great to hear your essentials are what I’ve done for my projects over the years. Record lots of BRoll and then sit for an interview that yea doesn’t actually get as much screen time as the BRoll. :) funny, I’ve only recently figured Doc-style was how I was shooting. Lol.

[@moniquebethell879]

Thanks for an easy way to understand and make a documentary 😊

[@brittanyweijers]

Griffin thx for the tips! Some of them where new to me never learned them I filmschool. I studied Cinematography for documentary work and high-end video production. That took 4 years of my life this only took roughly 4 minutes:p

[@TylerKidd]

I appreciate your point about natural sound. Normally I just delete the on camera audio, cool to see your not afraid to use it, thank you! 🤘

[@universalindierec]

This was great advice. As a total newbie you definitely have me thinking of how to shoot a documentary.. This video is bookmarked for sure.

[@djefx8303]

Amazing video!! I’m working on a documentary and I feel that there is much still to film. This helps me and I find it very inspiring! Keep up the good content! Totally subscribing!

[@ribbonworksstories]

Yes! Your voice, modulation..

[@wawakawinery4517]

Very helpful, I'm about to take on a big project for the first time filming a Rock band and after that doing a documentary with a stand up comedian, I will be referring to this tips and if any body else has advise it would be greatly appreciated

[@Benjabock]

Just bought your course on CreativeLive! Thank you for these teachings

[@mattdoddato]

This was great, also excited to check out the full course!

[@MatthewHyatt]

Didn't realize you were who created Sriracha but that was the most charming doc I've ever seen. Subbing for sure.

[@SuperFabiulous]

Amazing video!! Thank you so much . This will inspire my work for sure!

[@AlexMinor]

This was an AMAZING episode. I will definitely be purchasing your course and this makes me itch to shoot my first solo doc. I've done a few as part of a team, but I was strictly a DP. I didnt do any editing or have any input on how the final story was told. This makes me want to go out and shoot stuff NOW.

[@esthersimon2736]

This video was very helpful. Thank you!

[@DysnomiaFilms]

What about when you're capturing an interaction that will be played by itself? Eg. a courtroom hearing, an owner talking to a customer etc. Is that B-roll still since it's not going over V.O.? Is it a nat sound break considering it's got dialogue? Or is it something else... a 5th element?

[@dslloyd]

Hey @DysnomiaFilms, I believe both of those instances would be considered a NAT sound break if they are changing the course of your edit because whenever you are interrupting your VO/ b-roll and having something take full space of the audio and visuals, that would be considered a NAT sound break despite how long or short it is. I hope I answered your question and didn't confuse you even more!

[@bcvlogs7658]

Thank you for this great video, I'm new to filmmaking and I love the idea of making my own little documentaries. This has really helped a lot!

[@willteeyang]

yay Indy Mogul is BACK!

[@donovan_watson]

So. Much. Value. Thank you, I really appreciate you.

[@aziara369]

Just subscribed!!! Thanks for sharing all these informations, man! Awesome!

[@JellyB0B0]

Griffin's voice and Chef John from Foodwishes are the most comfy sound in youtube

[@mychalsimmons4177]

I learned something for sure Griffin. You always share great tips

[@bretinthemaking6897]

WOW for a 9-minute video Ive actually learned a lot.

[@maimohamed3590]

I'm glad this was on my youtube recommendations🙏😍✨👌

[@sbhopper8511]

I'm getting repetitive here, but I think comments are good for the channel - another great video Griffin. You always make it look so easy haha.

[@Joswavy]

This was a really awesome and well put together video. Although I feel like I subconsciously already knew these. It's nice knowing I'm not completely clueless 😂 I'm definitely going to think of these when shooting a doc

[@niamscookery3442]

Very useful.Thank you. Very crisp video.

[@Raptorfilmz]

Thanks! Very helpful. Great voice.

[@judethatdude]

6:49 I did close my eyes but I rewatched it to make sure you weren’t being sneaky - which you were

[@realestatemediapro]

Thank you for this value man! And for making the course so affordable as well. Definitely gunna pick It up.

[@AngryDadcreator08]

Really enjoyed this. Thanks for sharing this valuable information.

[@98JamesNixon]

Griffin is so Inspiring! One day I hope to be half as good as him!

[@hawejago]

I'm on editing documentary now, thank you for the tips! :)

[@amorshanti]

thank you so much for this video. Very helpful.

[@Enonimesh]

You are really helpful, sir!

[@joelsampson84]

Thanks for the knowledge, great content. Love this channel.

[@ontheroadwithralph1530]

Nicely done - I learned something.

[@Weird_Quests]

Amazing tips - really helps to hone in and tell that story. :). Loved it so much!

[@wagnerteixeiradeaguiar]

Thank you very much! Really appreciate!

[@grahamfjlaws6108]

Useful advice here. I'd really appreciate your advice on techniques to improve cinema verite (you mentioned it in passing in this video).

[@-441-]

Great info, great watch, great video

[@rickharold69]

Great summary. Very helpful. Thx!!

[@ByStephieNics]

great basic info!! thank you so much 🙏🏻

[@Pauline_mrt]

6:53 LMAO I almost missed it because I was a good obedient student and I did close my eyes! xD