Documentary filmmaking: focus on B-roll

What is the course about?

Did you know that B-roll makes up the lion share of most documentary films? Have you ever felt that you don’t have the right, or not enough material for the film you are making? This class looks at how to generate, find and use material to augment your interview-based film.

What will we cover?

1. What is B-roll? – the really interesting stuff in your film
2. Things to think about when shooting your project – what is your project really about
3. 5 essential tips in generating good B-roll –pre- and post-production
4. Essential editing tips for using B-roll – when and how to use A- and B-roll.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

1. Define B-roll in the context of a specific project
2. Outline at least 2 different approaches to obtaining B-roll
3. Create a shotlist that covers all eventualities
4. Name 5 essential tips in generating good B-roll –pre- and post-production
5. Select Overlay or Insert editing for rhythm and impact.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This class is open to students with or without prior experience. It covers both selected basic and more advanced elements of all stages of production and post-production. No experience is necessary but it is an advantage if you have some prior experience with shooting moving image footage and have used a moving-image editing package before.

How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Each session there will be demonstrations, discussions and practical work, like exercises both in the group and individually, allowing for some individual tutorial support. Periodically there will be forum sessions were we will look at each other’s work to discuss different aspects of the process in general and the work you are doing in particular. Asking questions and commenting is encouraged at all times. Handbooks, manuals and worksheets are available. This class strongly encourages homework and additional, independent engagement between sessions.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

You may want to purchase removable storage to collect and keep your data safe, though you will have your own account in class where you can accumulate your work from week to week.
You might also want to consider purchasing other books related to the subject of film making and editing. We will also provide you with a range of hand-outs free of charge and you can make use of books in the library.
Please note that a portable hard drive/USB stick if PC formatted can be read by Apple mac computers, but not written to. CDs/DVDs are available.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

You can enhance your editing skills through stage 2 and advanced editing courses in Premiere Pro cc and Final Cut ProX courses. You can also develop your film making skills in our documentary, Narrative and Experimental film making courses. For those who wish to add animated SFX to their work we have courses in Adobe After Effects and also do a range of traditional and digital animation courses.