We have now traveled the full course of documentary filmmaking. We have discussed finding a subject, defining your style, the technical requirements for bringing that vision to video, and how to market that video to a group of people. Like any artist or craftsman, you are now equipped with the necessary tools of your trade. I look forward to one day hearing a breathless documentary filmmaker at the Academy Awards stating how an article in Videomaker magazine helped get you started. Hey, I can dream too, you know!

Randal K. West is the Vice President/Creative Director for a DRTV full service advertising agency.

Devising an effective paper trail for your project is not the most fun you'll ever have as a documentary filmmaker, but it is an essential step for avoiding potentially costly legal suits. It doesn't matter if everyone appearing in your documentary is a friend or family member you should still have them sign a simple release allowing you to use their name and likeness at no charge to you. I have witnessed too many cases where someone who was fine with being shot initially, but insisted later upon edits or complete removal from the finished product. The way to protect yourself is to get a release before you shoot them.

"I hereby consent and authorize the use of my name and likeness, which may appear in any film, videotape, or still photograph released by, (you and your address), in connection with the distribution of an as yet untitled documentary (The Documentary).

I hereby authorize (you) and/or their assignees to use, reproduce, sell, exhibit, broadcast and distribute any promotional materials containing my name and likeness for the purpose of The Documentary.

I hereby waive any right to inspect or approve the finished videotape, soundtrack or advertising copy, or printed matter that may be used in connection therewith or to the eventual use that it might be applied."

You will need each individual to state whether they are over or under 18 or 21 years of age, depending upon the legal age of adulthood in your state. If they are under that age, you will need to have a parent or legal guardian undersign the release. They should provide you with their name, address, date of birth, and signature and you should have a witness present at the signing. Some producers also state directly in the release that there is "none nor will their ever be any recompense for this recording" if that is in fact the case. I realize that this sounds a little like over-kill but these kinds of releases aren't often read before the shoot, but they may save your project down the road.

How to Make a Documentary - Part I

How to Make a Documentary - Part II