How to Make a DOCUMENTARY

[@markbone]

Who's shooting/editing a documentary right now??

[@ThePlaceForThings]

Mark Bone 🙋‍♂️🙋‍♂️🙋‍♂️

[@Rolbysworld]

working on a mini series right now! been loving the content man, so much great info, real tips and knowledge. the series im working on is kind of like an auto-biographical mockumentary. I use all these super helpful videos on youtube to help organize and plan everything out. Really glad I subscribed to your channel because every time i watch one of your videos I dont get sucked into the youtube hole. I learn something or get inspired then I go create. Keep the videos coming!

[@llomegou]

well I do, just finished a doc about a 22 y o girl that owns a equestrian center in Catalonia, Spain :) Great experience. Next one about the art scene in Taiwan :)

[@markbone]

I love Catalonia! Sounds super cool

[@markbone]

@rolbysworld way to go 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@babot7781]

to be honest, youtube needs a lot of this content than showcasing gears

[@hotfeettv1977]

So true

[@TiempoFilmico]

Matti made a "How to make a Documentary" video and it just doesnt work. I love Matti ( and Pete) but it really isnt about having a red camera.

[@dsm_stories]

Love ur videos man❤ they are so informative. Thankyou❤

[@FearlessDreams]

Absolutely!!! His videos have been sooo helpful.

[@vivreennz7867]

Gear is one of the least important tbh

[@LexElls]

You know it's good when you start taking notes

[@markbone]

Lex Ells thanks Lex!!

[@McDoogMedia]

Same here....LOL!

[@sarahanderson8116]

Same hahaahahah

[@stadiomania6058]

Is my third time watching this video and every time I take more and more notes 👏🏽

[@HiissBaaeee]

I had to pause it and gather pen and paper myself 😅 definitely a note worthy video

[@cranberrie]

A breath of fresh air to find a filmmaker who talks about fundamentals of filmmaking! Thanks a lot for this, Mark!

[@markbone]

:)

[@deppover]

I just found your channel. It is really what I needed at this point in my career. Thanks for putting this channel out there.

[@jporfirio_]

Mark you're one of the best youtubers right now on the whole filmmaking realm. Finally someone that don't make the gear, typical transitions and the slow motion his main focus!

[@abdullahnaser6477]

Your channel definitely deserves to be subscribed to, I can't imagine an enthusiastic or a professional doesn't see the value of your educational content

[@DangerDan]

Thank you Mark, this was EXACTLY what I needed to structure a doc 🤩 its about my father - an aging professor, still working on his life mission.

[@TheGoldenboyo]

So glad I’ve found this channel. Probably one of the few channels on here that deep dives into the ‘why’ and not just the ‘what’ of filming. So many channels are just technicians talking about their techniques and equipment. This channel is so incredibly refreshing. Storytelling is the heart of filmmaking and unless you can craft this art first and know WHY you are shooting, you could just end up shooting a soulless, aesthetically visual masterpiece with no true heart. Keep this sort of advice coming please man. I’m learning a lot

[@markbone]

Thank so much, appreciate you seeing the need to talk about craft and story not just gear and camera!!

[@TheGoldenboyo]

Mark Bone Yeah man. So essential. You are definitely cutting a new path on KZbin if you take that route. Very refreshing. I hope this channel blows up even more than it has

[@melbattle1]

Please, so many more of these about the formatting about this type of content . i mean this is seriously so helpful.

[@alexmedia8094]

You the man!!! You help people like myself who have creative ideas but no formal experience, explore the world of documentary filmmaking. Thanks bro ❤️⚡👌

[@kriscuthbertson5787]

I’m beyond appreciative of your videos. You’re giving out information that most people don’t even know, and that’s why I have such a high respect for your work. Keep killing it!

[@gabsmith1]

I don't even make documentaries but hell this is a great thing to learn. Glad I found your channel!

[@Mindartcreativity]

Mark, your videos are so refreshing while most youtubers in my sub list are only doing reviews and giving technical tips for filming. Please keep on doing this. You and Creative North's Jonny are my favorite experts in this field as you actually ARE shooting docs WHILE doing youtube!

[@gilpineda]

That scene with just the piano was intense as is wow

[@markbone]

Gil Pineda that piano is from the singularity sound pack! I love their sound effects. There’s a link in the description

[@camgregg9971]

Man, your KZbin channel is SO refreshing!! So many new, unique, and useful tips/tutorials on techniques that MATTER. You’re covering stuff that no one else is on KZbin. Really appreciate all the wisdom! Keep it up!

[@nathanzanders9810]

Seriously, this is the KZbin channel I've been looking for!! Marks videos are legit the only videos I re-watch regularly 😂 Also, #markboneheadphones 😉

[@mikebanks4796]

Love the real/raw look behind Mark! You’re right, a lot of KZbin content on this subject is about transitions and gear, not so much about what actually goes on in front of the lens. Love your channel man and I’m glad I came across it!

[@markbone]

Thanks brother! Really appreciate you stopping by and checking it out!

[@mikebanks4796]

I’ve been binging your channel lately, all good stuff! Thanks for putting the content out there. 👍 I went to film school right out of high school and love videography/cinematography, but never pursued it career wise. So your channel is a ton of inspiration for a separate creative outlet channel I’m in the process of starting. 🙂

[@MuhammadFloyd]

With every video you post I feel like I’m really getting the info I’ve been searching for! Thanks

[@rakiytzakari]

Post-Its are so ESSENTIAL! That tactile connection and visual planning is what my brain needs to work. Great video Mark.✊🏾

[@TheThinkersBible]

Great principles to use and keep in mind. Am in the planning / scripting stage of my first KZbin documentary as we speak. Am doing my 2nd pass on the overall plot structure. This video is very helpful, both for a reminder and for new insights - thanks!

[@janetbwriter1687]

Thank you Mark. So generous of you to give us all this practical information.

[@JamesClark1991]

You remind me of early Peter McKinnon when he used to do more helpful tutorial type stuff rather than the blogs he does now.

[@mrfilmmaker2537]

Even more accurate as time goes on.

[@JamesClark1991]

@@mrfilmmaker2537 Still too much salesmanship in the videos, but hey, it's free and it's more than I'm doing. So I can't really complain.

[@sebastianmorales6849]

The fact that you are in the zone makes makes your speech great, you said it better than ever

[@dolioff]

3 things to keep in mind when shooting a documentary : story story story.

[@stadiomania6058]

I got the idea, all I need atm is learn better techniques! Learn from this kind of videos is a good start

[@HRIZNDOC]

Mark you're a breath of fresh air for content on youtube, I agree gear can help, but understanding the meat of the documentary is what is really important. I'll be in Japan in April and this helps with my ideas

[@le__art]

This is lit, thanks for the valuable information! How about: How to budget and finance a documentary? And please more on structuring and writing documentaries. 🙏 #markboneheadphones

[@yappzai]

one of the most underrated channels and resources and film making!

[@enderleypicturespost]

#markboneheadphones imagine listening to the silky tones of mark bone through those bad boys

[@zeterix8048]

You really can't go wrong!

[@iampaulder]

Hello Mark, this is what I Am Lookingfor, thanks so much

[@sazdal]

Dude, I discovered you recently and let me tell you that your advice is awsome... I do like the technical stuff but I also feel that there ia a lack of structure information and in this matter your content is really great. Keep it up and I hope to keep on learning more from you!!! #markboneheadphones

[@DaleReubin]

Thanks so much for getting into the nitty gritty of it all. It really helps understand the process more. My question is about money. How do you get paid to make documentaries? Who commissions them and how does that part of the business work?

[@markbone]

Dale we go into the whole business model of Documentary extensively over on theartofdocumentary.com but I do a mix of commissioned by either companies or broadcasters or just self fund my shorter films

[@ksvrd]

I searched how to film a documentary over a month ago. This Exactly what I needed then.

[@Mrjmaxted0291]

How'd it turn out in the end?

[@atdavidlee]

Such great content and tips here Mark! I remember watching Rescate about a year ago and was sooo blown away! My first documentary two years ago was on human trafficking in los angeles, I didn't have "the gear" but the story itself was enough to make you feel moved so thank you for reminding me of that!

[@PaulThompsonXYZ]

I just finished my first mini documentary over the weekend and I'm super proud of it. I look forward to improving my craft and shooting more documentaries, so this video is quite timely for me. Thanks! #markboneheadphones

[@rapbisnar]

Paul Thompson just watched “you are enough” awesome job brother! Loved the pacing which fit well with the length of the short. 🙌🏼

[@platformhelpark]

Ok, finally a tutorial that is about content and not only gear. Man, you just got a new follower right here, please keep on doing more content like this! Thanks!

[@markbone]

Thanks man! Glad I can help with theory not just tech!

[@skullzalliances]

Just found your channel last evening, you've already created a really good resource for Dp's and Directors who've just started out. Also would the love the headphones for a podcast I'm starting haha #markboneheadphones

[@woodypaul_]

hai hai, new follower here. KZbin algorithm brought me here and let's just say ... I've basically binge watched all your videos. Great content, can't wait for more!

[@markbone]

Woody Lawson more is coming soon!!

[@e.nyhlin9262]

This documentary series has been soo helpful! Want to try out making my own projects now that i know how! #markboneheadphones

[@markbone]

E.Nyhlin thanks mate!! Glad you’re liking it :)

[@vanlindtclassics]

I'm a beginner in the filmmaking process after 50 years a a cinimatogrher with a still camera -I'm challenge and inspire by your tutorials..thank you

[@markbone]

Thanks mate! Exciting beginnings for you

[@shirleyvelazquez1604]

I want to start my documentary . I became very passionate about this project ❤️

[@jacksp8de]

Love your channel. I found it at the right time. I’m watching the ken burns masterclass. People should check that out if you into making docs.

[@DuncanSmith]

You explain story structure so well and why we need some form of conflict in videos, there’s so much gold in this video 👊🏻

[@martoverone77]

I learned more in this video about documentary filmmaking than in months of reading and looking at youtube tutotorials. Thanks Mark!

[@grievyholmes]

Love your content. Just found you today, and I’m never letting go. All the way from Nigeria

[@markbone]

I love Nigeria!! jay jay okocha was my favourite player growing up!

[@jodeeancayan48]

another substantial video. we need a lot of this guy on this platform! great content as always, man!!

[@rossbodenmann]

@Mark Bone this is clutch info. Working through a short doc about a retiring artist just now - re-inspired! Thanks man

[@chrismcphee2060]

Hey Mark!! You guys are killing it in Canada. I sure you know Peter M. One of my favorite KZbin favorites. I am shooting a doc in 2020. I am following you Bro. Keep it coming. I am listening. #iAMYourCameraGuy Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us newbies! 100%

[@vincentbeijk8346]

Mark Thank You!

[@sarahanderson8116]

This is invaluable and exactly the type of guidance I've been looking for so thank you SO much for making this video. I've done all the research about gear etc but really I wanted help with storyline. So happy I stumbled upon this. Thank you so much!

[@markbone]

Thanks Sarah! I love talking about stuff besides gear!

[@melissabone1449]

Well as someone who has known you since the very, very beginning, I can say how proud I am of this amazing little 'You-Tube-that-Could'channel... and to think that you had some struggles in school with story-writing! Now you're doing it through film, and it's amazing! Plus, I'd love those headphones too. Love, Mom #markboneheadphones

[@Mostirrelevant]

I've just watched some of your trailers and the photography looks amazing. Some of the life stories of f.e. ambulance drivers has a lot of drama potential, fe. why the driver choose to persist eventhough he witnessed such horrors. Or the biker story, I can imagine a lot of different concepts about his path. Inspiring and great.

[@samhartfieldlewis5247]

This is ace, we are soon going to be moving to the USA from the Uk, for my wife’s job. I wanted to document that. with where we live now and where going too and the change in that. With jobs, the dogs, problems that come about sorting a place to live that stuff. Thanks for you help nice one. Go steady Sam

[@SamHolland]

LOVE the idea with the coloured post-it notes! Loads easier to see laid out like that.

[@kacperchmielewski4742]

Seriously - tips and informations you are sharing are one of the best on KZbin. They help a lot. Thanks and keep it up! Fingers crossed for the final edit.

[@mev1982]

Very nice video. Stickies really saved my documentary film. One thing about documentary its really hard to control your story structure while shooting, so most of the structure is engineered in post productions, that is when the stickies does its magic. Also you can get colored stickies.

[@annabrewerproductions]

This is awesome. Super helpful. I liked the editing room piece. Fun to see other filmmakers at work! The little back light is a great gadget.

[@juliawest1973]

Thanks Mark for your highly engaging and thoughtful video. I am going to suggest this video to my students!

[@markbone]

🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@alexmedia8094]

Literally my favourite KZbinr and creative at the moment. Thanks for sharing this as I've literally just got into documentary film making . Kudos bro⚡

[@Audiotechnical]

Just outstanding video Mark! Such a huge thank you for sharing this with me. OMG if time turned back about 20 years, and you were my tutor an Uni (studied Art, Design & Media - The moving Image/Film making) I would absolutely have been dedicated to my course! (unlike what really happened, and now is the time I want to learn!)

[@markbone]

My pleasure Matt 🙏🏻

[@marcoeisenbarth4452]

Mark, this is gold. In your latest video you announced a doc course. Can't wait for it. Exactly what I'm looking for.

[@Brian-Hansen]

Thanks Mark! A nice look at the process of filmmaking. Love it!

[@briang6397]

Really excited to see how this film is gonna turn out. Love your work man

[@theadnanamiin]

This z for the first time I m watching a real tutorial on teaching filmmaking, it's straight,raw,indepth,technical those thing which helps out .. thnks fr the master class ..I love it really lookin forward for more stuff like this ,as I learned alot from this ..and thnks fr not talking about gear and luts hahaha 👍👍👌👌👌😊😊,😍😍

[@markbone]

Thanks mate!! Trying to inform on all topics not just gear

[@undisturbedkingdom8494]

Thank you so much for sharing! Always looking forward to your content.

[@jortploosvanamstel]

I loved this video! I'm planning to make a documentary for school soon and this series has already helped me a lot, thanks so much Mark!

[@RaineyRetro]

Appreciate this. Recently got a drone and my 1st camera rig setup. Have plenty of footage but lacked a clear direction. This helped TREMENDOUSLY. Subbed

[@arraiacc]

Please do more of an in-depth analysis on plot structure! Thank you for the content you have shared thus far! Stellar!

[@xaviermartin6551]

The theory on documentary film making is exactly what i've been looking for. More of this please.

[@HiissBaaeee]

Thank you so much! I’m currently planning a documentary on my mother right now! All of your videos are so helpful! I appreciate you sharing this

[@RickKepple]

Thanks for the lessons in the video and I saved it to my channel in case I need to watch it again and get it right.

[@EnzoMaisanoTELLTHESTORY]

Absolutely loved this. Thanks for sharing. Keep doing this. You will become one of KZbins best. I have a doco that I have been trying to get finished for two years that I filmed in India. It’s been in post production (the back of my mind) for too long. You’ve inspired me to finish it.

[@mikedesrochers]

Loyal subscriber Mark! Love your content and would love listening to you with those headphones! Thanks man keep it up...

[@glensanders3154]

Really enjoyed this one, great content, really useful, thanks Mark

[@albertstephensmedia9534]

Thank you for sharing this valuable information, it has helped me soooooooo much in just the short time I’ve been watching your channel. Thank you!!!

[@thegabrieljulie]

I'm really impressed by the quality of this video. Very well done!

[@makeitupasyougo54]

love the post it notes. Deffo using this. THANKS!

[@someshap]

Dude this is amazing !! Literally, you have no idea how much this refreshed my mind for a doci I'm about to go shoot. Thank you so much for this dude!!!

[@Tanoaproductionsfiji]

Thank you Mark. such invaluable insights and direction. Top content man!

[@hatemgheribi5123]

Hey mark, thx for your Chanel is very great all the stuff you give away! I have question can multiple characters in one documentary film?

[@christofrobin333]

Hey Mark, what camera are you shooting these tutorials on? And thank you for doing these!!! Really incredibly helpful. I'm making my list of equipment I need as well as an outline for my doc. Thank you!!!

[@lionroots11]

I love the color in this video, How did you accomplished that and did you use premier? what camera and lens. Sorry for all the question but ive been trying to achieve this look for a while for my music video

[@markbone]

Desmond Albert are you referring to the colour in my documentary or my tutorial?

[@lionroots11]

@@markbone yes, I like how cinematic how crisp look not sure if lens used?

[@jahzzii7]

I've watched this video like 4 or 5 times! :) you nailed it bro! Stay safe!

[@Username0029]

This is amazing and valuable information you're giving.Definitely subbed

[@KasperHeisenbaconDavies]

I don't care to hear about the luts, I'm a filmmaker, this is gold Mark thanks!

[@jordansnowzell]

This is great thanks! Quick question, With the layout of intro building tension resolution etc. what would you recommend if it is say 6 episodes in a series rather than 1 documentary film? Would you try and do that for each episode/chapter or would you try and do that across the episodes?

[@gregoryedwards8918]

Mark, how bout creating a filmmaking class or two at the Artscape Launchpad here on the Toronto waterfront. They have some great equipment and studios but have little in the way of instruction. Love what you are doing here on KZbin and could see some great hands classes here in TO. It maybe worth looking into!

[@markbone]

I'm open to it if they are

[@gregoryedwards8918]

Let me do some checking.

[@AllThingsFilm1]

Thanks for this walkthrough. I've always thought about making docs, but I know they can be quite an undertaking. I'm already subbed, so if you drop any more tips I'll be here.

[@turbochargedsnacks]

I’m excited for this video, looking to make a mini doc on my fraternity very soon!

[@turbochargedsnacks]

Going to shoot it with my a7ii as its all I have but I’m gonna try and make it work

[@turbochargedsnacks]

#markboneheadphones

[@jonathanaguirre8135]

Just ran into your channel and love the way you story tell and structure your videos. Always providing a ton of value!

[@EverythingFilmmaking]

This was great Mark..right on time for me..you just earned a subscriber 🤟🏻🎥🙏🏻

[@theo7458]

Just started university and studying Film Practice which is basically film school for making documentaries and we are getting into the editing part of it and those headphones would be amazing to acquire for next level editing! In addition heard your advice and bought my self a top handle for my DSRL. Keep up the good work and keep inspiring people!! #markboneheadphones

[@epochstories]

I've been always wondering about archive footage. How do you usually get it? And what about copyright issues? Do you usually have to ask permission or asking the news agency to sign a form? Or is it easily accessible in a public domain and can be used freely?

[@1994mrmojo]

I've just found your channel and I'm loving your content! Could you do a video about on location sound?

[@the_allens_]

This is so much more helpful than just another camera review or what’s in my camera bag. Keep killing it ✌🏻

[@kressvisuals]

Hi Mark, I've watched your videos several times, there are so many good tips, each time I'm preparing a new documentary I'm watching them again and again to keep the fundamental principles in my mind. Here is my question: I understand the importance of having a main character, BUT, my next documentary is about a sport team, and I want to show the importance of the team spirit, and I'm worried to focus on one character that could be contra-productive with the idea of a team. Would you have some advice? Thanks once again for you amazing content

[@ThePlaceForThings]

still learning, love to hear it 🧠 another excellent video. can’t wait to implement some of these ideas into my films

[@little_engine_goes_to_Thailand]

Fantastic ! this info is gold. Helped me a bunch - thank you

[@TyNel55]

Awesome videos, congrats on 100k! Can you please do a video on how you do research about countries and characters you are going to film

[@DerekMarmolijo]

Thank you for sharing! I'm always getting something out of your videos.