Notes

Arzu Aliyeva: How do you create the most effective documentary film

The gruelling logistical aspects of creating a documentary film is seldom covered by cinema students. Arzu Aliyeva (Azerbaijani filmmaker) was asked a few questions. Aliyeva is an experienced documentary producer and director , has had to overcome many logistical obstacles in her work. Aliyeva was behind the camera for productions like "Son Iclas" or "Objective: Baku". The Nazis' War on Oil

This article will explore and discuss the "behind-the scenes" aspects of documentary filmmaking.

The phases of documentary production
Filmmaking is not like other fields of analysis, such as accounting or finance. Arzu Aliyeva claims that each step in the production of a documentary is guided by their own vision which they've laid out as a director. She claims that no documentary is the same as its predecessor, just like snowflakes.

However, every production begins with "preproduction." It simply means that the director should have an idea of what their film should look like before the camera is able to begin rolling.

If you've a clear understanding of the story behind your movie, it's time to plan it. Aliyeva says that"planning" is a small word, but it is a word with a lot of meaning. This includes planning your budget, making outline of your interview, shot lists planning, budgeting, and scheduling. All this must be completed before you turn to the camera.

Once you've made it to the production stage , it's time to put all of your preparation into practice. Aliyeva reminds us of an essential rule of film production is that "Nothing happens as planned." You could have done better than a lawyer in an action in a class However, things could change when you're in the field. Aliyeva emphasizes that you need to be flexible with your production and not be averse to it.

When the production is complete the time has come to begin the post-production process. Once you've shot every single piece of footage, it's time to decide what is worth saving. Aliyeva says that the majority of the content will be kept in her editing room.

Did you finish your movie? Great! Now it's time to release it to the general public. According to Arzu Aliyeva, Distribution is not taught to filmmakers often. Except for epics with big budgets Documentaries aren't in the same level of demand like feature films. It is possible to promote it online or approach the big companies.

Arzu Aliyeva's most Essential Equipment in a documentary
Aliyeva jokes that everything starts with a camera when she is asked. Two essential elements are needed in any documentary regardless of the size and budget. The film should be seen and the viewers must be able to hear it. You need to have the best camera available as well as audio aids that allow people to hear what you just showed them.

After you've established, you'll need more filmmaking equipment that will help you with your task of communicating your message. This, naturally, will depend on the type of documentary you're making. If you are making a documentary purely from interviews or archive footage, it would be beneficial to have good lighting. Cameras and audio stability devices are vital if you plan to create a documentary that has a lot of outdoor shooting.

Aliyeva stated that every project is unique , and the equipment can be used interchangeably. Equipment is an important part of your budget during the stage prior to production.

What is the timeliest way to make a documentary.

According to Arzu Aliyeva, length of your project is something that cannot be set in stone. The duration of projects can vary from months to complete, and even years. Aliyeva says it's all dependent on the subject matter and your passion. Because Documentaries tend to deal with numerous social issues, the film can be a guide for them as they unfold in the real world. A filmmaker can go into a project thinking it will take him several months, but reality can quickly turn into a couple of years.

The budget is a different factor which can impact the length or the shortening of your movie. When you're amid your phase of production or in the pre-production stage certain unexpected changes to your budget can happen. Aliyeva breaks it down into two main scenarios:

The less likely version. You probably ate too often and spent a lot of money on production in the beginning. This leaves you with very little or no funds for the remainder of your film. Aliyeva is of the opinion that this could be a learning moment for you as it relates to how you can keep your film running even when you have the smallest amount of money.
The less likely one: According to Aliyeva this scenario is only possible for the most fortunate filmmakers. That is where big companies and producers are informed about your project and decide to finance your film in the near future. This could give a huge boost to your project and provide you with options you have never dreamed of.
How much does it cost to produce a documentary, according to Aliyeva
The cost of your film, like the other elements mentioned in this article, is project dependent. Arzu Aliyeva teaches anyone that asks her to be very prudent when planning the budget. It is important to understand your movie goals for each stage. The length of your film and how large will ultimately determine the expense of your film.

A film that is built on testimonials and stories isn't a big investment. The more expansive the film, the greater the cost. The price of many films is ultimately determined by locations, production values and the investment in the film's features.

Aliyeva says that in some cases the price of your vision could be just more important than the actual vision. So, make sure that the vision justifies your costs.
Here's my website: