Documentary Filmmaking with your Mobile Devices for Theatrical Release and Social Media

Learn to produce engaging documentaries with nothing more than your mobile device. In this comprehensive six-month course, you’ll explore the entire process—from pre-production and shooting to editing and distribution. Whether you’re aiming for a theatrical release or social media impact, this course covers everything you need to create documentaries that captivate audiences.
Duration: 6 Months
Sessions: 25
Frequency: Weekly
Filmmaking with Mobile Devices Course

Course Objectives

  • Learn the essentials of documentary filmmaking using mobile devices.
  • Master mobile-specific shooting techniques and tools.
  • Understand the post-production process, from editing to color grading.
  • Develop marketing strategies for both theatrical and social media platforms.

This course will help you turn your mobile device into a powerful storytelling tool, capable of producing professional-quality documentaries for any platform.

Course Structure

Module 1

Introduction and Pre-Production

1: Course Introduction

  • Overview of documentary filmmaking
  • Importance of mobile devices in modern filmmaking
  • Course objectives and expectations

2: Understanding Documentaries

  • History and evolution of documentaries
  • Different genres and styles
  • Analyzing successful mobile-shot documentaries

3: Concept Development

  • Finding a story worth telling
  • Researching your topic
  • Developing a narrative arc

4: Planning Your Documentary

  • Creating a treatment
  • Drafting a storyboard
  • Planning interviews and B-roll

5: Mobile Filmmaking Essentials

  • Choosing the right mobile device and accessories
  • Understanding camera settings and capabilities
  • Mobile filmmaking apps and tools

Module 2

Production Techniques

6: Pre-Production Logistics

  • Budgeting and scheduling
  • Location scouting and permits
  • Casting and crew selection

7: Shooting Technique

  • Framing and composition
  • Lighting with mobile devices
  • Sound recording essentials

8: Interview Techniques

  • Preparing for interviews
  • Conducting effective interviews
  • Capturing natural sound and reactions

9: Capturing B-roll

  • Importance of B-roll in storytelling
  • Techniques for shooting B-roll
  • Organizing and cataloging footage

10: Mobile Filmmaking Hacks

  • Overcoming mobile limitations
  • Creative solutions for shooting
  • Utilizing mobile apps for enhanced shooting

Module 3

Editing and Post-Production

11: Introduction to Mobile Editing

  • Overview of mobile editing apps
  • Basic editing principles
  • Importing and organizing footage

12: Storytelling through Editing

  • Building a narrative through cuts
  • Pacing and rhythm
  • Incorporating interviews and B-roll

13: Sound Editing

  • Enhancing audio quality
  • Adding music and sound effects
  • Mixing and balancing sound

14: Color Correction and Grading

  • Basics of color correction
  • Tools for color grading on mobile
  • Achieving a cinematic look

15: Advanced Editing Techniques

  • Using transitions and effects
  • Integrating graphics and titles
  • Finalizing your edit

Module 4

Finalizing and Distributing Your Documentary

16: Review and Feedback

  • Peer review sessions
  • Constructive criticism and revisions
  • Refining your documentary

17: Preparing for Theatrical Release

  • Exporting for high-quality projection
  • Creating a DCP (Digital Cinema Package)
  • Submitting to film festivals

18: Social Media Strategies

  • Optimizing for different platforms
  • Creating trailers and teasers
  • Building an online presence

19: Marketing Your Documentary

  • Crafting a marketing plan
  • Engaging with your audience
  • Utilizing social media for promotion

20: Monetization and Distribution

  • Exploring distribution options
  • Monetizing through platforms like YouTube and Vimeo
  • Crowdfunding and sponsorship

Module 5

Case Studies and Special Topics

21: Case Study: Successful Mobile Documentaries

  • Analyzing successful examples
  • Lessons learned and best practices
  • Applying techniques to your project

22: Ethical Considerations in Documentary Filmmaking

  • Navigating ethical dilemmas
  • Respecting subjects and their stories
  • Legal considerations

23: Advanced Mobile Filmmaking Tools

  • Latest advancements in mobile technology
  • New apps and accessories
  • Future trends in mobile filmmaking

24: Networking and Collaboration

  • Building a professional network
  • Collaborating with other filmmakers
  • Joining filmmaking communities

Module 6

Final Project and Presentation

25: Final Project Presentation

  • Presenting your documentary
  • Receiving feedback from peers and instructors
  • Planning next steps for your film

Assignments & Projects

This course emphasizes practical, hands-on learning, with key assignments throughout:

  • Weekly Assignments: Each week focuses on a specific aspect of filmmaking, from planning to shooting and editing.
  • Mid-Term Project: A short documentary (5–10 minutes), showcasing your understanding of mobile filmmaking techniques.
  • Final Project: A full-length documentary (15–30 minutes) aimed at either theatrical or social media release.

Receive personalized feedback from peers and instructors to refine your skills.

Additional Resources

To help you succeed, we provide a comprehensive list of resources:

  • Mobile Devices & Accessories: Learn how to enhance your mobile filming with accessories like lenses, microphones, and stabilizers.
  • Editing Software: Explore powerful mobile editing apps such as Adobe Premiere Rush and LumaFusion.
  • Online Tutorials: Access a library of resources covering every aspect of mobile documentary filmmaking.

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Course Fees and Discounts
  • Single Course: LKR 50,000
  • Enrol in Two Courses: 10% discount
  • Enrol in Three Courses: 15% discount
  • Enrol in All Four Courses: 20% discount