Covering all the steps from concept to completion, Hampe’s guidebook has given students of film around the world the knowledge and confidence to produce their first documentary film. It traces two main approaches—recording behavior and re-creating past events—and shows students how to be successful at each. Now in a second edition, Hampe includes up-to-date information on several topics, such as a discussion on truth, “reality,” and honesty in the filmmaking environment; new advice on how to get started in documentary filmmaking; an expanded section on researching and writing a proposal; and an exhaustive list of resources. In one complete volume, Hampe, who has made more than two hundred documentary films and information videos as director, scriptwriter, or both, offers students the necessary tools to confidently make documentary films and videos.
“Comprehensive and well-written introduction for aspiring filmmakers. Every aspect of production is covered, from conceptualizing an idea to seeking distributors for the final product. Technical aspects of video and film equipment are touched upon, but are not covered to such a degree that they become laborious. For instance, the subject of lighting, which could easily be a book unto itself, is addressed in a few pages. A filmography of classic documentaries and an appendix describing how to join the International Documentary Association are included. An invaluable tool for future producers and an excellent title to supplement videography and film-production classes.”—John Kiefman, Fairfax County Public Library, Virginia, School Library Journal
Barry Hampe is a writer-director and film/video teacher who has made more than 150 documentaries and information videos. He has also owned production companies in Philadelphia, Honolulu, and Las Vegas.
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