Editing the Documentary (WS)


Learn how to bring greater drama, impact and story content to documentaries.

Much of a documentary's story is crafted in editing. This workshop is for freelance documentary filmmakers, video editors, and producers who want to understand the broad range of post-production possibilities for creating compelling documentaries. The class analyzes trends in contemporary programming and discusses technique and editing methodology. Students screen dailies from various documentaries and discuss story structure. Writing, the use of narration, music and sound effects, counter-point and dramatic realism are all explored, as are ethics and the responsibility of the editor and director. The emphasis is on developing story structure and a writing/editing style to tell clear, dramatic stories. Students are encouraged to bring their own projects for further development and critique.

Winter/Spring lodging and meal package available: $425.