If you’re a documentary filmmaker, you’ve likely faced the reality that funding a project often feels like a second full-time job—one that doesn’t pay. The current funding landscape is built on scarcity, gatekeeping, and power imbalances that disproportionately benefit those with financial privilege. The result? Filmmakers without independent wealth are forced into cycles of financial precarity, overwork, and, in many cases, creative compromise.

The landscape of documentary filmmaking has evolved dramatically. With the rise of branded content and the democratization of filmmaking tools, more storytellers than ever are diving into documentary-style interviews. But one thing hasn't changed: the challenge of capturing authentic, powerful stories on camera.

Whether you're creating traditional documentaries or branded content, the fundamentals of great interviewing remain the same. It's about building trust, staying curious, and creating space for genuine human connection.

The power of stories—whether they're told through photographs, words, or film—isn't just in the moments they capture, but in how they let us connect across time, across experiences, across all the spaces between what was and what is. They give us permission to wonder, to imagine, to piece together our own understanding of the people and moments that shape us.

For filmmakers and video producers archival footage can be a game-changer. It can add depth to explainer videos, documentary projects, and experimental films without the high costs of shooting everything from scratch. However, navigating the world of archival material can be overwhelming, especially regarding copyright restrictions.

Running a small video production company often feels like a constant sprint—juggling multiple projects, responding to client emails at all hours, and trying to stay ahead of the competition. The default mindset in creative industries, especially filmmaking, is that busier is better. But is it?

You have a powerful idea for a documentary. You know it could create a real impact and tell a story that needs to be heard. But before you can bring it to life, you need buy-in from others—whether it's colleagues, leadership at your organization, or external funders. Crafting a compelling pitch is about more than just having a good idea; it’s about conveying the value of your story in a way that resonates with your audience and inspires them to support your vision.

Whether you’re creating a branded documentary, a non-profit campaign video, or an explainer animation, starting with a clear direction can make all the difference in the effectiveness of your project. Developing a working hypothesis is one of the best ways to ensure that your video has a solid foundation.

While journaling might seem like a personal activity, it can be a game-changer for organizations looking to create meaningful video content. Let's explore how this simple practice can transform your storytelling process and help you craft more impactful videos.

How do you consistently come up with fresh, compelling ideas for your videos? The answer lies in building a story database – a valuable resource that can help you organize your inspirations and fuel your future video projects.

As a nonprofit or NGO, you know that powerful storytelling is key to engaging supporters and driving positive change. But coming up with fresh, compelling ideas for your video content can be challenging. How can you ensure your stories resonate emotionally and inspire action?

In Elevated, we are introduced to Sonya Wilson, a deaf climber whose journey redefines the limits of possibility.

This guide provides a valuable starting point for non-profits and organizations seeking financial help to bring their impact stories to life through documentary content.

For nonprofits and organizations, understanding The Hero’s Journey can be a powerful tool to help craft stories that resonate with audiences, especially when creating videos to engage donors, volunteers, or stakeholders.

Transforming complex data into engaging visuals is essential for capturing your audience's attention and conveying your message effectively. Data visualization not only makes your content more appealing but also helps in highlighting key insights that might be lost in text-heavy reports.

The Audience Persona Worksheet is an essential tool that helps you define and understand your target audience, enabling you to tailor your video content effectively.

Gawx captures the creative process.

In the world of interviews—be it journalism, documentary filmmaking, or research—the depth and authenticity of the conversation largely depend on the trust established between the interviewer and the subject. Building this trust isn't just a courtesy; it's essential for unlocking genuine insights and stories that resonate. Here's how you can cultivate a strong rapport with your interview subjects.

Short-form documentaries have emerged as a powerful medium to tell impactful stories succinctly. While brevity is key, the depth and authenticity of the narrative cannot be compromised. One effective way to achieve this is through collaborative storytelling with your subjects. By engaging subjects as active participants rather than passive observers, filmmakers can create more resonant and authentic narratives that captivate audiences.

Short-form documentaries have emerged as a powerful medium to tell impactful stories succinctly. While brevity is key, the depth and authenticity of the narrative cannot be compromised. One effective way to achieve this is through collaborative storytelling with your subjects. By engaging subjects as active participants rather than passive observers, filmmakers can create more resonant and authentic narratives that captivate audiences.

In the health sector, storytelling is a powerful tool that can illuminate patient experiences, highlight the impact of your organization's work, and inspire donors and stakeholders. However, with this power comes the responsibility to respect patient privacy and dignity. Let’s explore the principles and best practices of ethical storytelling in healthcare, ensuring that your videos honor the individuals at the heart of your narratives.