Create a Documentary Film

The MY HERO Pocket Field Guide can be printed for students to use as a resource. If you would like to have a smaller, foldable pocket guide, use this link.  

The Independent Initiative - Documentary Filming With Your Smartphone

Shooting documentaries on a smartphone is so simple! Check out these creative tips to help you with your next project!

MAKE Your Story: Interviews from Digital Storytellers on Vimeo.

Use the following essay, What Kind of Heroes Should We Embrace to start a discussion about heroes? Students identify the difference between a hero and a celebrity as they discuss what type of person is a hero.

First, do research about the topic and make notes on a computer or notepad

Then create a rough draft of a script - this does not have to be word for word.

Then create a storyboard, or shot list. 

Make sure you have good, front-facing lighting and are not backlit.

Get a good angle with your entire face in the shot.

Memorize small parts of your script at a time so that you aren’t reading off the page-- it takes away from the energy and charisma (gaps in between sections are okay, they can be edited out!)

BE ENGAGING! Even if you aren’t passionate about what you are talking about, act as if you are.

Transfer your clips onto whichever device you will be using to edit. A computer is recommended but alternatively, you can use a phone or tablet

Learn how to use your editing platform. See tutorials below.

Include pictures and subtitles, you can find free images on Wikimedia commons.

The following three links are resources to copyright free images and sound.

SUBMIT YOUR FILM TO THE MY HERO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL. ONGOING SUBMISSIONS ACCEPTED