Guide to Filming a Corporate Documentary
1. Define the Purpose
Before any filming begins, clarify the documentary's objectives. Consider the following questions:
What message or story do you want to convey?
Who is the target audience?
What is the desired outcome after viewers have watched the film?
2. Conduct Research
Gather relevant information about the company, its history, values, products, and key personnel. This can involve:
Reviewing promotional materials and annual reports.
Conducting interviews with employees and stakeholders.
Assessing competitors to understand the market context.
3. Develop a Script Outline
Create a script outline that reflects the key points you wish to cover. Outline the narrative structure, including:
Introduction: Introduce the company and the purpose of the documentary.
Body: Present the main themes, anecdotes, and interviews.
Conclusion: Summarise the key messages and future outlook.
4. Plan Filming Logistics
Determine the logistical aspects of shooting the documentary:
Budget: Outline all potential costs, including equipment, crew, and post-production.
Locations: Identify where you will be filming, ensuring you have the necessary permissions.
Schedule: Create a filming schedule that accommodates the availability of interviewees and locations.
5. Assemble Your Team
Gather a team of professionals, which may include:
Director: Oversees the film's vision.
Camera Operators: Responsible for capturing the footage.
Sound Technicians: Manages audio quality.
Editors: Handles post-production work.
6. Conduct Interviews
Interviews are vital in a corporate documentary. To ensure effectiveness:
Prepare open-ended questions that prompt detailed responses.
Create a comfortable environment for interviewees to encourage candidness.
Film in locations relevant to the interviewee's role within the company.
7. Capture B-Roll Footage
B-roll provides supplementary visuals that enhance the narrative. Consider:
Footage of the workspace, employees in action, and product shots.
Events, meetings, and team-building activities that reflect the company culture.
Any relevant industry events or community engagement activities.
8. Review and Edit Footage
Post-production is where the documentary comes together. Key steps include:
Organise and log all footage systematically.
Edit the video, ensuring a coherent flow of information and visuals.
Add background music, voiceovers, and any necessary graphics or text overlays.
9. Seek Feedback
Before finalising the documentary, gather input from stakeholders. This can help refine the message and uncover any areas for improvement. Consider:
Conducting a screening with a test audience.
Making adjustments based on constructive criticism.
10. Finalise and Distribute
Once adjustments are made, prepare the final version for distribution:
Choose appropriate platforms for sharing the documentary (e.g., company website, social media).
Consider organising a formal launch event to showcase the documentary to clients and partners.
Monitor viewer engagement and gather feedback for future projects.
By following these steps, you can create a compelling corporate documentary that effectively reflects your organisation's values and vision.
