DATE: 9/6/25 - 9/27/25
TIME: 11:00 AM - 12:30 PM
LOCATION: Online
INSTRUCTOR: Imani L. Warren M.A.
PRICE: STANDARD REGISTRATION: $200 NON MEMBERS – Now until September 6th (Day of first event)
Save $50 if you register by July 15th, 2025, 11:59 PM EST with discount code: DOCU-50atlff
ATLFS Member discounts applied at checkout
Have you ever wanted to create a documentary but weren’t sure where to start? In this four-week course, we’ll explore the essential tools and techniques that helped bring Instructor Imani L. Warren M.A. her own documentary projects to life, and how you can do the same. Documentary filmmaking is a unique process that blends storytelling with real-world experiences, and it all begins with a spark of inspiration.
We’ll walk through the key stages of documentary development, from generating creative ideas and forming concepts to conducting research that grounds your narrative. You’ll learn how to transform those initial ideas into a clear vision and develop a compelling story that resonates with audiences.
The workshop will also cover how to create concept reels, a vital tool in presenting your vision to producers or collaborators. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid foundation in the principles of documentary filmmaking, and you’ll be ready to start bringing your own ideas to life.
Week 1: Research & Concept Development
Topic: Finding Your Story – Researching & Developing Documentary Ideas
Introduction to Documentary Filmmaking
What makes a compelling documentary?
Different styles and formats (expository, observational, participatory, etc.)
Researching your topic
Finding reliable sources
Understanding ethical storytelling
Archival research and public records
Refining your documentary idea
Brainstorming titles
Writing a treatment
Outlining your narrative
Homework: Select a documentary topic and develop a one-page pitch.
Week 2: Conducting Interviews & Gathering Information
Topic: Interviewing & Structuring Your Story
The Art of the Interview
Writing effective questions
Approaching and selecting interviewees
Techniques for building trust and eliciting strong responses
Additional Storytelling Elements
Using narration, voiceovers, and expert opinions
Incorporating archival footage, photos, and graphics
Hands-On Exercise
Conducting practice interviews with peers
Homework: Conduct a short interview with a friend or family member about a personal story.
Week 3: Production & Location Setup
Topic: Planning & Shooting Your Documentary
Pre-Production Planning
Choosing locations & securing permissions
Creating a production schedule
Selecting the right gear (cameras, microphones, lighting)
Filming techniques
Setting up interviews (lighting, framing, sound)
B-roll footage: capturing visuals to support your story
On-location troubleshooting
Homework: Film a short interview or a B-roll sequence related to your documentary topic.
Week 4: Principal Filming & Next Steps
Topic: Getting It in the Can – Wrapping Up Production
Reviewing footage & organizing materials
Logging and cataloging interviews & B-roll
Identifying key moments and shaping the narrative
Next Steps: Editing & Post-Production
Overview of editing software (Adobe Premiere, DaVinci Resolve, iMovie)
Structuring the film: rough cuts, pacing, and music choices
Basic color correction and sound mixing
Concepts Reels and how to create them
Where to showcase your work (festivals, YouTube, community screenings)
Marketing and audience engagement
Wrap-Up & Q&A
Course reflections
Next steps for participants' projects
Don’t miss out—register today and take the first step in your documentary filmmaking journey!
*Please note that livestream webinars for this course are held on Saturdays from 11 am - 12:30 pm during the month of September, beginning on September 6th. This course will introduce participants to the fundamentals of documentary filmmaking, from research to production. Each session will be a mix of lecture, discussion, and hands-on activities.
Refund request must be emailed to boxoffice@atlantafilmsociety.org 7 days prior to the date of event unless specified in the event description.