FESTIVALS & PLATFORMS
A catalyst for new approaches to art-making and digital invention, commissioning ground breaking projects which challenge the definitions of art and moving image.
An essential platform and voice for the lesser-known and under-represented activities that form the grassroots of visual culture in London
An online gallery for artists' moving image
A creative documentary film festival, lab and pitching forum
A London based contemporary art organisation which curates, commissions and produces projects by artists working across sound, moving image, performance and the visual arts
A creative documentary festival and forum based in Marseilles
An introduction to hybrid tendencies in documentary film
An online VOD platform for artist's film
Punto de Vista focuses on those filmmakers who take risks and make bold statements with their work
An artist-led curatorial project exploring the intersection of art & documentary practices
The pioneering online platform for artists' moving image
An annual festival celebrating creative documentary works
FUNDS & RESOURCES
Professional development residency for animated documentary works
Produce and disseminate new forms of artist practice in the UK
Supports new forms of cinema in practice and theory development
Produces extraordinary art in unexpected places in our London home, across the UK and around the world
Enables visual artists to practice by providing information, advice, opportunities and services at any stage in their careers
An artist's support and production agency
FVU commissions, curates, produces and presents artists’ moving-image works that are staged in collaboration with galleries and other cultural partners across the UK
Film London's artist moving image resources and funding branch
One of Europe’s leading creative producers, working with British and international artists to develop and deliver new cross art form productions across the world
An organisation dedicated to imaginative and responsible funding of the arts across the UK
Information for artists, curators, students and academics interested in artists' moving image
A beginner's guide to distributing and promoting artists' film and video work
An overview of artist filmmakers issues and work options in 2010
A space that combines film production alongside critical dialogue about contemporary image making
Olffi is the world's largest database on public funds and incentives for film, TV, new media and more covering over 90 countries, 750 funding programs and 150 production incentives.
An experimental laboratory at Harvard University that promotes innovative combinations of aesthetics and ethnography
An archive of a conference addressing contemporary film theory
An incredible and free archive of inspiring art, music and film
UnionDocs (UnDo) is a Center for Documentary Art that generates and shares big ideas.
Blogs
In depth advice on distribution strategies for independent film.
CENTRE FOR SOCIAL MEDIA INTERVIEWS
A collection of articles and reports gathered by CSMI
A european based documentary magazine produced by EDN
Film criticism published by Film Society of Lincoln Center
A Danish blog packed with film criticism (in Danish)
The Hot Docs industry-focused documentary blog. Publishes content bi-weekly: interviews, how to’s, resources, in house publications, programmer travel notes, etc.
News and views on the world of independent film
Articles spanning all aspects of filmmaking from Independent Filmmaker Project
The leading news, information and networking site for independent-minded filmmakers
A blog with a primary focus on documentary editing
A place for commentary about nonfiction entertainment.
A pinterest collection of film articles from around the web.
A blog dedicated to trends and questions of the non-fiction world.
An industry focused publication on factual content
Sign up to get a weekly email on non-fiction news and opportunities
SUNDANCE INSTITUTE ARTIST'S SERVICES
In depth articles on issues facing filmmakers from production to distribution.
Masterclasses
Video masterclasses from top film industry folks
Engaging filmed interviews with legendary documentary makers.
A series of filmed talks and panels from IFP's Youtube channel
Filmed masterclasses from the annual documentary festival
Meet the artist films - conversations with new and established filmmakers
News
The BFI's international publication of film news and criticism
A news site dedicated to new factual and documentary content
Updates from the European Documentary Network
Film industry focused news and updates
Doc news and opinion from the STF team
Articles and updates from the Tribeca team
Budgeting Your Film
Budgeting for a film's life cycle: development through to distribution
Budgeting For Emerging Filmmakers
Elsewhere
Annual summit and networking platform of the Berlin International Film Festival for creatives from the fields of film and drama series.
Training & networks co-financed by Creative Europe MEDIA
Tailored training and advice on how to develop their film ideas, unlock funding and reach a large international audience
One of the leading training programmes in Europe designed for documentary film producers who want to enhance the development stage of their projects on the international level,
A groundbreaking initiative positioned at the intersection of media, social change and peace-building.
North America
A list of the 10 'Best Academic Programs' for Documentary Filmmakers
UK
Open to 16-19-year-olds in the UK from any background, a chance to be part of our future film industry.
A search engine for UK study programmes
SHOOTING PEOPLE COURSE DIRECTORY:
A deep directory of film courses from Shooting People
Practical industry training and support from Creative Skillset
A search engine for UK university courses
Covid-19
Many independent documentary filmmakers are asking themselves whether or not it is possible to film safely, given how infectious the Covid-19 virus is. We offer this protocol to help guide documentary filmmakers’ assessment process.
Engagement
Changing the Narrative of Disability in Documentary Film
Advice and Resources
Reports on the success and failure of new distribution models
A ridiculous wealth of resources for distribution and marketing
A step by step course guide to making an impact and sustainable direct distribution strategy developed by filmmakers.
A series of articles and advice on film distribution
Consulting and advice on new and hybrid distribution
Super useful bulletins on the changing world of film distribution
An industry publication section dedicated to distribution trends and news
SELLING YOUR FILM - FREE GUIDES
Excellent, practical international guides to sales and distribution options
A slideshare revealing recent changes in distribution models
Great advice from leading doc industry figures on dealmaking and distribution strategy
SUNDANCE INSTITUTE ARTIST SERVICE
Support and unparalleled distribution deals that allows preferred and direct access to the leading online digital retailers for Sundance grantees.
TED HOPE - FILM FESTIVAL PREPARATION
A collection of insightful articles regarding preparation for film festivals and sales
This nonprofit project is collecting and sharing current data on independent film revenue and expenses in order to help filmmakers be more creative and efficient in funding, marketing and releasing their work.
TRULY FREE FILM VOD PLATFORMS LIST
A long list of VOD platforms globally
One filmmaker's honest account of self-distributing in the UK
Distributors, Sales Agents and Exhibitors
World sales of documentary film
An international sales and advisory firm
Deckert Distribution is a world sales company for documentaries and stands for excellent, director-led, award-winning films.
A documentary dedicated cinema based in London
Dedicated to distribution and sales of documentary cinema globally
International distribution and production of documentaries, series, fiction films and transmedia
Journeyman Pictures is a global distributor of docs, and we cover all markets worldwide, including theatrical, broadcast, digital, educational, home entertainment.
A globally active distribution company
Sideways Film is a documentary and factual sales agency established in 2010 that specialises in worldwide Broadcast, All Rights, Digital, Educational and in-flight licensing.
Renowned sales, distribution, and production Company based in NYC
London based world sales and production of independent documentary
Platforms and Tools
Aims to distribute African films to African audiences through a screening network
The leading website builder platform built just for films, powering thousands of Film, Distributor and Production Company websites. Fully automate your site, shop, showtimes, reviews, awards, VOD links, mailing list and easily manage your entire film slate. It is the single hub to manage how you engage with your audience during development, production and release.
A streaming platform for documentaries based in Australia
An intermediary for filmmakers and major VOD platforms
A VOD point of sale tool
A VOD platform and award for documentary cinema
A VOD platform for independent cinema
Film Sprout’s work runs the gamut from targeted screening initiatives to vast, high-intensity screening campaign.
Theatrical On Demand tool to get your film into cinemas (US based)
Another list of international VOD platforms
A partnership founded for the joint distribution of documentaries across Europe
An SVOD service for independent cinema
A German based online self-distribution platform
Theatrical On Demand tool to get your film into cinemas (UK based)
An online video community that provides filmmakers / VR makers complete control to self-distribute content directly to their viewers
Weekly curated documentaries available to watch online right now.
Another US based Theatrical on Demand service
A tool to sell films, TV shows, web series and more across multiple platforms.
A platform allowing you to sell your videos directly to your fans
Green Doc Production
Many filmmakers are increasingly asking themselves what they can do to minimise their environmental footprint as they make & distribute films to audiences far and wide. As citizens, every one of us has an opportunity to play our part in driving change and protecting our planet. But as filmmakers, we have a responsibility to not only tell stories to inspire audiences to live sustainably, but to ensure we reduce the environmental footprint of our productions too.
This checklist provides industry aligned best practice for sustainable filmmaking. Regardless of where you are in your filmmaking journey, this is a tool to help you minimise your environmental impact and maximise your budget.
Awards and Funds
An annual award recognising the greatest achievements in documentary impact globally
One World Media supports strong, vibrant and independent media that empowers citizens, promotes justice and contributes to international development.
An annual award for media works that create strategic impact in their field
Case Studies
ALEX KELLY REPORT ON THE FIELD
Exploring social change documentary film outreach, engagement and impact campaigns.
Analysis of the release of the award-winning documentary Bully
Over 20 impact case studies from successful documentary outreach campaigns
Case studies of ITVS outreach programmes
THE EVOLUTION OF PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT
A report focusing the release and impact of three documentaries
Strategy, Tools and Advice
Easy-to-use, full-featured, mobile ready online organizing toolset
Builds tools that help people use stories, art, and culture to advance social change.
CENTER FOR MEDIA AND SOCIAL IMPACT
An innovation incubator and research center that creates, studies, and showcases media for social impact.
In partnership with Tugg, the Cause Cinema Society brings movies to grade schools, colleges and communities.
DIGITAL STORYTELLING FOR SOCIAL IMPACT
A slideshare guide to storytelling for social impact
FLEDGLING FUND IMPACT RESOURCES
Fledgling publishes white papers, case studies and impact stories in order to share different kinds of impact as well as lessons that we hope will inform and strengthen the field.
HI conducts research to understand how media works and impacts society
Pitching tool from the Hot Docs Team and Documentary Impact: Social Change Through Storytelling
An incredible set of tools and guides designed to help all of us who are working with film make even greater impact than we do already.
The Norman Lear Center is a nonpartisan research and public policy center that studies the social, political, economic and cultural impact of entertainment on the world.
A list of engagement specialists working in the field who are willing to help
Merge the art of filmmaking with the world of social justice advocacy and grassroots activism, constructing a human rights media ecosystem through long-term engagement and collaboration with movement actors.
A national nonprofit that uses documentary media to advance social justice and environmental sustainability.
Film Festival Lists
An in-depth overview of film festivals - access for members only
A handy guide to European film festivals
A comprehensive database of established American film festivals, including a sortable spreadsheet, calendar, and interactive maps.
A wide directory of film festivals globally
Crowdfunding Platforms
READ THE SMALL-PRINT: Each has different terms and conditions in relation to revenue intake.
An on-line crowd-funding platform bringing social ventures looking for start-up or growth capital together with like-minded people keen to participate in a new way of funding social change.
The largest global site for fundraisers, Indiegogo helps individuals, groups and non-profits raise money online
Kickstarter helps artists, musicians, filmmakers, designers, and other creators find the resources and support they need to make their ideas a reality.
A crowdfunding platform based in France
Integrated crowdfunding, audience building and VOD platform
DEADLINE CALENDARS
An overview of what is happening in the international documentary industry
Don't miss another deadline! POV's For Filmmakers calendar includes funding deadlines, calls for entries, festivals and other documentary events.
DOCUMENTARY FUND LISTS
The world of documentary funding can be frustrating, but resilience and resourcefulness are key to meeting your budget. These links provide a list of established and emerging documentary funds - Read it - Research it - Identify your targets - and please, please don't miss the deadline!
A small selection of documentary funds with upcoming deadlines
A list of documentary film grants with a useful American focus from The International Documentary Association (IDA)
A long list of funds and foundations supporting documentary film
Pitching Forums and Markets
A selection of upcoming pitching forum deadlines
A month by month overview of market events in Europe
TV and Industry Directories
The world of documentary commissioning can be hard to keep up with. Remits change, slots change, people change and the amount of money available changes. There are many formatted opportunities to gain the ear of decision makers such as pitching forums, markets and networking events. There are also informal opportunities - but we don't encourage pitching to people when you're drunk at 3am. Though it may seem like the right idea at the time it's unlikely you'll pitch your project effectively.
Our main advice is: do your research and to be nice to the so-called 'decision makers'. Follow the application procedures and get to know what kind of things they're looking for - research their remit, both form and content - there's no point pitching a 90 minute war documentary to a commissioner who's looking for 30 minute reality shows or 2 minute experimental docs. Don't get angry if they don't fund this one - it is a small world and you don't want to spoil your chances for the next idea. Sometimes a 'no' is really a 'not this time' or 'it's not quite right.'
Being accepted for pitching forums and markets can guarantee you access to the people you want to speak to, but if you can't wait then apply to them directly, most broadcasters will have a commissioning section on their website where you can submit your proposal.
To help negotiate the myriad of decision makers out there here's a list of places where you can research the people you want to see your proposal and ultimately, fund your film.
Analysis & context for the unscripted video business
Radarscreen spotlights commissioners from 80+ channels around the globe.
SHEFFIELD DOC/FEST DECISION MAKER'S LIST
A useful directory of buyers, broadcasters and industry folk.
Funding
Supports innovative projects involving jointly civil society organisations and networks from the South and North of the Mediterranean.
ARAB REPORTERS FOR INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
The first and leading media organization in the region dedicated to promoting investigative journalism in Arab newsrooms, still a new practice.
BERTHA DOC SOCIETY JOURNALISM FUND
The Bertha Doc Society Journalism Fund is an international film fund dedicated to supporting long form feature documentaries of a journalistic nature.
COMMITTEE TO PROTECT JOURNALISTS
Works closely with press freedom and human rights groups, universities, and other organizations to assist journalists in need.
Enables and sustain quality journalism and information as a public service through a variety of activities, both in the non-profit and service sectors
FOUNDATION OF SPARKASSE LEIPZIG
Supports press and media freedom globally
Manages funds for projects within the areas of Media and Democracy, Information and public debate, Grants and Training and Art and Culture.
A gathering place for journalists, photographers and other likeminded people interested in international affairs and independent journalism.
GLOBAL INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM NETWORK
An international association of nonprofit organizations that support, promote, and produce investigative journalism.
Provides education and business support services to our nonprofit member organizations and promote the value and benefit of public-service and investigative journalism.
INTERNATIONAL CENTER FOR JOURNALISTS
Empower journalists and engage citizens with new technologies and best practices.
Funds new approaches to journalism, research what works and share practical insights gained from years of working with news creators and news gatherers.
An independent non‐profit organisation established with the purpose of promoting quality cross-border and in-depth journalism in Europe.
The Innovation in Development Reporting Grant Programme (IDR) is a media-funding project operated by the European Journalism Centre (EJC).
Supports strong, vibrant and independent media that empowers citizens, promotes justice and contributes to international development.
OPEN SOCIETY FOUNDATIONS MEDIA PROGRAMME
Supports a free and safe environment for journalism to flourish, while seeking to strengthen investigative reporting, innovative and quality information collected under difficult conditions, and knowledge sharing in the field.
PULITZER CENTER FOR CRISIS REPORTING
A non-profit journalism organization dedicated to supporting in-depth engagement with underreported global affairs through our sponsorship of quality international journalism across all media platforms.
A list of resources including financing available to independent journalists
A network for investigative journalists in Eastern Europe, Russia, Caucasus, Central Asia and West Africa
Invest in independent, critical media and a strong, just democratic state
The Pascal Decroos Fund grant programme awards grants to special journalistic projects
Support
BALTIC CENTER FOR INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
Re:Baltica is a non-profit organization that produces investigative journalism in the public interest.
BRAZILIAN INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISTS
Aims to improve the quality of Brazilian journalism through training and capacity building of journalists and journalism students.
BUREAU FOR INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
Independent research, investigations, reporting and analysis aiming to help educate the public about the realities of power in today’s world
CANADIAN ASSOCIATION OF JOURNALISTS
The CAJ is the national voice of Canadian journalists
CENTER FOR INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISM
A charity committed to the education and training of journalists, editors and researchers towards critical in-depth reporting and defence of the public interest.
Protect Yourself from Electronic Spying with 'Surveillance Self-Defense'
EUROPEAN JOURNALISM TRAINING ASSOCIATION (EJTA)
A group of about 60 journalism centers, schools and universities from 24 countries across Europe
FORENINGEN FOR UNDERSØGENDE JOURNALISTIK
The Danish Association for Investigative Journalism works to promote investigative journalism in Danish media.
A great list of advice covering all aspects of independent journalism from safety to pay, from training to insurance.
GLOBAL FORUM FOR MEDIA DEVELOPMENT
An international membership network of media assistance groups that highlights the importance of independent, pluralistic and sustainable media in social and economic development.
News Lab exists to support the creation and distribution of quality journalism.
A network of organisations connected by a shared commitment to defend and promote freedom of expression as a fundamental human right.
INFORMATION SECURITY FOR JOURNALISTS
A journalist's handbook for digital security
INTERNATIONAL JOURNALISTS' NETWORK (IJNET)
The latest on global media innovation, news apps and tools, training opportunities and expert advice for professional and citizen journalists worldwide.
A global network of journalists, editors and media executives in nearly 100 countries.
INTERNATIONAL REPORTING PROJECT
Providing opportunities such as fellowships for journalists to report internationally on critical that are under-represented in the news media.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTERS AND EDITORS
A grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the quality of investigative reporting
MEDIA LEGAL DEFENCE INITIATIVE
Provides legal help for journalists, bloggers and independent media across the world
NEW MEDIA JOURNALISM RESOURCES
A blog with a strong list of resource links
A platform and commissioning of short journalistic documentary hosted by NYT
The Nieman Journalism Lab is an attempt to help journalism figure out its future in an Internet age
ProPublica is an independent, non-profit newsroom that produces investigative journalism in the public interest
RSF provides information about the media freedom situation worldwide in French, English, Spanish, Arabic, Chinese, Russian and other languages.
A Norwegian network for investigative journalists
THE INTERNATIONAL CONSORTIUM OF INVESTIGATIVE JOURNALISTS
A global network of more than 190 investigative journalists in more than 65 countries who collaborate on in-depth investigative stories.
Act to promote socio-economic progress and the rule of law worldwide
Tools & resources for the next generation of journalists hosted on Medium
A resource list and how-to guide for journalists from WITNESS
Business Management
The ins and outs of co-production and how they work
The British Library’s Business & IP Centre at St Pancras, London, can help you start, run and grow your business.
Errors & Omissions & Rights
A checklist for applying for Errors and Omissions Insurance can be reviewed here.
An Attorney's Take on Errors & Omissions Insurance
Errors and Omissions Insurance guide by attorney Mark Litwak
Desktop Documentaries Guide to E&O
A guide to the main types of video & film production insurance to consider.
Film Courage Video Explanation to E&O
What Is E&O Insurance and When Do Filmmakers Need It? A video from Film Courage
IDA Guide to Protecting Your Film
An Insurance Broker's Guide to Protecting Your Film
IDA Tips on Production Insurance
An informative article on production insurance: Documentary Production Insurance: Don't Shoot Away from Home without It
Introduction to Insurance from Independent Magazine
Production Insurance for Filmmakers: Understanding the Basics. Production insurance is probably one of the most important things a filmmaker needs to take into consideration before shooting the project.
Various entertainment law resources including articles and videos from attorney Mark Litwak.
Los Angeles-based Donaldson + Callif, Lisa Callif and Christopher Perez help their clients apply for errors and omissions insurance on a daily basis. Here’s their top seven “preventable pitfalls and mistakes” to watch for.
Legal Advice
The Indie Film Clinic is a not for profit clinical program that provides free legal services to filmmakers producing independent, documentary, and student films and to artists providing services in independent and documentary film.
DESKTOP DOCUMENTARIES INSURANCE ADVICE
Production insurance tips
JON M. GARON ENTERTAINMENT LAW
Entertainment law resources and publications
A comprehensive reference and training manual for lawyers and journalists on European legal standards related to freedom of expression and the protection of reputation
An experienced Film & TV Insurance broker, providing advice, service and polices for all parts of the Film, TV and Media sector.
MEDIA LAW AND ETHICS RESOURCES
A collection of resources on ethics and media law.
Media Legal Defence Initiative provides legal help for journalists, bloggers and independent media across the world
Downloadable production contract templates
A great blog dedicated to case studies and legal best practice for documentary makers.
RORY PECK INSURANCE FOR JOURNALISTS GUIDE
A guide to personal, travel, medical, life, equipment and kidnapping insurance for journalists
Reporters Without Borders is offering freelance or affiliated reporters the opportunity to take out an insurance policy through them.
SOCIETY OF PROFESSIONAL JOURNALISTS LEGAL DEFENCE FUND
The Society's Legal Defense Fund is a unique account that can be tapped for providing journalists with legal or direct financial assistance.
Provides pro bono arts-related legal representation and education to low-income artists and nonprofit arts and cultural organizations.
International Documentary Networks and Major Institutions
A professional network supporting German documentary makers
A Portuguese cultural non-profit association whose main objectives is to support, promote and stimulate interest in documentary cinema.
A network of Balkan filmmakers, a place for inventing, training, development and collaboration
The aim of Beirut DC was to provide help and support to Arab independent documentary filmmakers
An organization that works to promote the Chilean documentary and strengthening its marketing, inside and outside the country
A platform supporting Chinese documentary filmmakers to enhance a sustainable strategy for the contemporary Chinese documentary making
The Italian association for the documentary film industry
Helps Canadian documentary-makers get their work made and seen
DOCUMENTARY AUSTRALIA FOUNDATION
Australia's only independent, non-profit initiative bringing philanthropists and filmmakers together to create social change
An international network of contacts - experts, industry and filmmakers.
A membership network stimulating networks & knowledge within the documentary sector.
Supports the emerging documentary stars from Central and Eastern Europe
Online Networks
An international online documentary community for advice and feedback
Helps filmmakers connect with crew globally
Connects you with thousands of filmmakers, actors, crew, technologists and industry to get films made and seen.
UK Documentary Networks and Major Institutions
Supports film culture across the UK. This includes investing Lottery funds in film development and production, and to increase audiences.
Funds, connects, mentors, advocates and collaborates at all levels of the industry, from individuals and small independents to large internationals, creating the right conditions for more success.
Exists to support documentary filmmakers in all ways – through our bi-monthly nights, access to events/festivals, discounts, networking opportunities and funding opportunities.
A non-profit founded in 2005 committed to enabling great documentary films and connecting them to audiences globally.
Has a remit to help to develop a film sector in Wales and maximise the economic, educational and cultural benefits of film.
Connects ideas, talent and finance to develop a pioneering creative culture in the city that delivers success in film, television, animation, games and beyond.
The North East's creative agency, nurturing talent, supporting media businesses and driving commercial film and television production within the region.
The government-backed lead agency in Northern Ireland for the film, television and digital content industry
SCOTTISH DOCUMENTARY INSTITUTE
An internationally recognised documentary research centre based at Edinburgh College of Art/University of Edinburgh specialising in documentary training, production and distribution.
A Creative Development agency delivering and supporting innovative projects across screen-based media and the wider cultural and creative industries.
Production Investment for Film, TV, Games & Digital
USA Documentary Networks and Major Institutions
Support and cultivate media about our communities that complicates Southern (USA) identity and grapples with the political and cultural heritage of our communities.
Support diverse voices by developing, producing and distributing innovative media about the Black experience and by investing in visionary content makers
A film foundation and production company that champions vital stories, artfully told.
Docs In Progress creates and fosters a supportive community for documentary filmmakers
Through its programs, the IDA provides resources, creates community, and defends rights and freedoms for documentary artists, activists, and journalists
A collaborative center for documentary media makers who seek to foster a more engaged and empowered society.
The Points North Institute is a launching pad for the next generation of nonfiction storytellers
SUNDANCE DOCUMENTARY FILM PROGRAM
Supports non-fiction filmmakers worldwide in the production of cinematic documentaries on contemporary themes
Provides finishing funds to feature-length documentaries which highlight and humanize issues of social importance from around the world.
A Center for Documentary Art that generates and shares big ideas.
Global Resource Lists
We are not responsible for the content of these lists - some are good, some are bad, some are ugly, but if you do your digging you'll find some treasure in here.
An overview of BFI support opportunities
A wealth of resources in the UK available to filmmakers
An online listing site for funding calls and artist opportunities
Insightful short interviews with legendary documentary makers
A series of links to essential industry knowledge from The Center for Independent Documentary
This site is dedicated to filmmaking enthusiasts of all levels looking for guidance, perspective and insight about documentary filmmaking.
The Documentary Organization of Canada (DOC) is the collective voice of independent documentary makers across Canada
An online resource hub provided by DocHouse cinema
A community for documentary filmmakers who share information
Distribution and marketing focused resources
Resources for artist filmmakers working in moving image
A series of resources for independent documentary makers
Indiewire's Ultimate Guide to Documentary Filmmaking Advice
A collaborative center for documentary media makers who seek to foster a more engaged and empowered society.
A list of grants available to freelancers from any nationality, working in a variety of media formats, across the world.
The WITNESS Library to download free resources for video activists, trainers and their allies. Includes video and PDF downloads of core WITNESS training materials and how-to guides.
A resource list with a focus on opportunities for female filmmakers
Downloadable Templates
Dependent Films offer a number of free downloadable templates here
Hundreds of sample contracts and forms for all stages of production
FILMSOURCING PRODUCTION TEMPLATES
A wealth of release forms and production templates to download
SAMPLE DOCUMENTARY BUDGET TEMPLATE
A downloadable documentary budget template from Sundance Institute
Digital Security and Encryption
An updated Guide to Privacy and Security for Internet Users Worldwide
Video tutorials on digital security
LOGAN - INFORMATION SECURITY FOR JOURNALISTS
An incredibly in depth free guide to information security for journalists
This Online Survival Kit offers practical tools, advice and techniques that teach you how to circumvent censorship and to secure your communications and data.
Hostile Environment Training
BBC vetted safety equipment providers
An incredibly in depth guide to physical and digital security for journalists
Support for freelance journalists and documentary filmmakers working to expose human rights abuses
FRONTLINE FREELANCE SAFETY RESOURCES
A useful series of links to physical and digital security for filmmakers and journalists
Provides travel safety awareness training to clients sending staff overseas
NUJ HEALTH, SAFTEY AND HIGH RISK GUIDE
A series of link and handbook for journalists working in high-risk environments
A thorough step by step guide and resource for hostile environment training
Can provide funding towards hostile environment training
Listen
A vast collection of radio and sound recordings
Was started with the idea that there is a ton of great audio and radio available for free online.
An archive of podcasts from BBC Radio
An audio diary collaboration between an artist group and a homeless man
A place to hear inventive documentaries, dramas and works of sound art that have been made in languages you don’t necessarily speak.
A show about curiosity. Where sound illuminates ideas, and the boundaries blur between science, philosophy, and human experience.
A curated network of extraordinary, story-driven shows
Recordings from the creative radio station Resonance FM
Read/Guidance
A series of tutorials is for anyone interested in making audio documentaries.
Has a long tradition of releasing high-quality, award-winning radio programming. These programs are made available to stations at no charge in an effort to inform and increase dialogue on critical international issues.
StoryCorps’ mission is to preserve and share humanity’s stories in order to build connections between people and create a more just and compassionate world.
Curates sound-rich audio stories from around the world and shares them with as many ears as possible - via radio, podcast, public events, annual conference and this website.
Resources and Organisations
A collaborative project between a new generation of radio producers and radio enthusiasts.
A podcast series of artfully told stories from across the US
A Showcase and Workshop for New Public Radio
Safe + Secure
Safe + Secure has been launched as a result of increased awareness about the risks to which documentary filmmakers expose themselves - and their crews, subjects and sources - in order to bring important stories to the world. In response to this field-wide need, Doc Society has been working with experts to develop tools for both filmmakers and funders to help mitigate risks, be they digital, legal, journalistic, or related to safety and health
Platforms, Networks and Funds
The initiative aims to bridge the gap between training/graduation and a first commission by offering Scottish-based filmmakers
Produce and distribute authentic, insightful and inspiring short film programs
A network and screening night for short documentary makers
A filmmaker-driven visual journalism film unit that pairs filmmakers with developing and ongoing stories around the globe.
A list of funders who may support short form documentary film
The premiere UK showcase for cutting-edge UK independent film, while now accepting international submissions
A source of inspiration - Curated short form films
Short documentaries produced by the New York Times
RAINDANCE SHORT DOC FESTIVAL GUIDE
A great list of global short film festivals
Innovative short form films commissioned by Channel 4
Weekly inspirational curated short films
A weekly slot for new short international documentary stories, produced by the best independent filmmakers
Short film festival and funding opportunities
Examples
A chronological overview of interactive documentary history
NFB's channel for supported interactive projects
Discover inspiring interactive projects recommended by Industry experts
Resources
An interactive curated database of the people, projects, and technologies transforming documentary in the digital age
Explores documentary in the age of the interface
Klynt is an editing & publishing application dedicated to interactive storytellers
Korsakow is an application for creating web docs and other kinds of nonlinear, interactive narratives
Brings storytellers, technologists, and scholars together to explore new documentary forms with a particular focus on collaborative, interactive, and immersive storytelling
An HTML5 media framework written in JavaScript for filmmakers, web developers, and anyone who wants to create time-based interactive media on the web
A network and resource for interactive storytellers
A Pinterest page dedicated to new media resources
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