Documentary & Visual Journalism

Overview: Learn non-fiction storytelling, interview techniques, observational filming, archival research, and editing real-world narratives.

15-Week Curriculum:

• Weeks 1–3 (Documentary Concepts & Research): Subject selection, ethical storytelling, research methods, and documentary treatment writing.

• Weeks 4–7 (Interview & Field Cinematography): Conducting dynamic interviews, multi-camera setups, natural light control, and B-roll gathering.

• Weeks 8–11 (Paper Edits & Narrative Assembly): Transcript logging, paper edits, structuring narrative arcs, and archival asset integration.

• Weeks 12–14 (Sound Design & Final Cut): Voiceover recording, audio ducking, score editing, and documentary color pass.

• Week 15 (Final Review): Short documentary screening and director Q&A panel.

Assessment Rubric (100 Points Total):

• Story Authenticity & Narrative Arc (30 pts): Subject engagement, interview depth, emotional clarity, and journalistic integrity.

• Cinematography & B-Roll Quality (25 pts): Framing, stable movement, B-roll relevance, and lighting flexibility.

• Editing & Audio Post (25 pts): Smooth interview cuts, crisp dialogue mixing, voiceover integration, and narrative flow.

• Documentary Package (20 pts): Complete pitch deck, synopsis, and 4K video export.