Documentary Filmmaker

Document your passions with an education in documentary filmmaking.

About

A documentary filmmaker is a person who creates non-fiction films that aim to educate, inform and raise awareness about various subjects and issues. Documentary filmmakers often conduct extensive research and interviews with experts being directly involved in the subject matter. 

The goal of a documentary filmmaker is to create a film that is both engaging and informative, captures the viewer's attention and provides them with new insights and perspectives on the subject matter. To be successful, documentary filmmakers must have a strong passion for their work and a commitment to telling important stories that can make a difference in the world.

Eligibility

For Bachelor’s

  • The applicants can pursue Bachelor's Degree in Film Study, BA in Cinema Study, BA in Filmmaking and B.Sc. in Digital Film making courses. 
  • The seeker is required to score at least 50% or more marks in their secondary level of board examination. 

For Masters

  • The ideal candidate can apply for a Master's degree or a PG diploma course in film producing/making.
  • Apart from study lessons, the students are required to take practice sessions side by side to cover the learning lessons practically and enhance their experience for a better scope. 

Job Roles

There are several job roles within the field of documentary filmmaking including:

  • Director
  • Producer
  • Cinematographer
  • Editor
  • Sound Designer
  • Researcher
  • Writer

Employment Sector Jobs

Documentary filmmakers can find employment in a variety of sectors including:

  • Film and Television Production Companies
  • Broadcasting Networks
  • News Organisations
  • Non-Profit Organisations
  • Government Agencies
  • Education Institutions
  • Freelance

Top Recruiters

There are many organisations and companies that recruit Documentary Filmmakers including:

  • Dharma Productions
  • UTV Motion Pictures
  • Phantom Films
  • Balaji Motion Pictures
  • Excel Entertainment
  • Sony Pictures
  • Red Chillies Entertainment
  • Yash Raj Films
  • National Geographic
  • Blue Sky Studios
  • Fox Star Studios
  • BBC Films 

Salary

The salary for a documentary filmmaker can vary widely depending on factors such as experience, location and type of employer. 

 

Entry-level Documentary Filmmaker

Approx 1 lakhs - 2 lakhs per annum

Senior Documentary Filmmaker

Approx 6 lakhs - 9 lakhs per annum

Top-level Documentary Filmmaker

Approx 10 lakhs - 12 lakhs per annum

Skills

A documentary filmmaker needs diverse skills to successfully create a film that accurately and engagingly portrays its subject matter. Some of these skills include:

  • Storytelling
  • Research
  • Interviewing
  • Camera operation
  • Editing
  • Budgeting and Project Management
  • Marketing and distribution

Scope

The scope of a documentary filmmaker can vary widely depending on the individual filmmaker's goals, interests and the specific film they are creating. However, some common areas of focus within the field of documentary filmmaking include:

  • Social and political issues
  • Cultural and historical events
  • Personal narratives
  • Science and technology
  • Nature and wildlife

Benefits

Becoming a documentary filmmaker can provide many personal and professional benefits including:

  • Creativity
  • Career growth
  • Making a difference
  • Learning and personal growth
  • Travel
  • Collaboration
  • Financial benefits

Drawbacks

While there are many benefits of being a documentary filmmaker there are also some drawbacks and challenges to consider:

  • Financial instability
  • Time-consuming
  • Competition
  • Funding
  • Ethical challenges
  • Unpredictability