Breaking into documentary filmmaking often starts with uncovering compelling stories in your backyard. Local projects are an excellent way to hone your skills, build confidence, and connect with your community.
Here are ten project ideas that aspiring documentary filmmakers and storytellers can start exploring in their local area.
Cover photo by Dibakar Roy
1. Portrait of a Local Hero
Every community has unsung heroes. They could be teachers, activists, artists, or volunteers who quietly make a difference. Document their daily lives and the impact they have. This is not just a story about their work but a chance to explore themes of resilience and compassion.
Tip: Focus on emotional storytelling and include personal anecdotes to connect with your audience.
How to Start:
Identify someone in your community who inspires you—a volunteer at a food bank, a teacher who goes the extra mile, or a neighbor with a unique life story. Ask for their permission to film and schedule time to follow them in their daily activities.
Example:
“Edith + Eddie” (2017), an Oscar-nominated short documentary. It follows an elderly interracial couple facing challenges in their final years.
Video Time Limit:
Aim for 5–10 minutes for a short portrait.
Tips:
- Use natural light and intimate framing for emotional scenes.
- Capture both action (e.g., the hero at work) and quiet moments (e.g., reflecting at home).
- Record audio carefully—natural sounds, like footsteps or the rustle of papers, enhance intimacy.
2. Hidden Histories
Research the untold stories or forgotten landmarks in your town. A crumbling old building or a rarely mentioned local legend can reveal fascinating narratives. However, most will only appear after investigation.
Tip: Visit local libraries or historical societies to uncover archival materials. Old photographs, and interviews with longtime residents are a great source of material.
How to Start:
Research local landmarks, old newspapers, or stories passed down in the community. Collaborate with local historians or enthusiasts.
Example:
A filmmaker (John Zieman) in New York City created a short documentary about the High Line before it became a park, exploring its history as an abandoned railway.
Video Time Limit:
10–20 minutes, depending on the depth of research.
Tips:
- Use voiceovers or title cards to explain historical context.
- Include archival footage or photographs.
- Overlay interviews with shots of the locations as they exist today.
3. A Day in the Life
Follow a local worker or artisan, such as a baker, mechanic, or street performer, for a day. Capture the nuances of their craft, their challenges, and their joy in doing what they love.
Tip: Use close-ups and ambient sound to highlight the textures and rhythms of their environment.
How to Start:
Approach someone whose work fascinates you. Examples include a baker, blacksmith, or bus driver. Spend a full day with them to capture a complete arc of their routine.
Example:
“Jiro Dreams of Sushi” (2011) follows a master sushi chef, showcasing the dedication and artistry behind his craft.
Video Time Limit:
5–15 minutes.
Tips:
- Capture transitional moments (e.g., the subject preparing for work or cleaning up afterward).
- Use time-lapse or montage sequences for repetitive tasks.
- Interview the subject about their thoughts and challenges throughout the day.
4. Community Festivals and Events
Document a community gathering, like a farmers’ market, cultural festival, or charity run. These events often reveal the character and diversity of a neighborhood.
Tip: Capture the preparation behind the scenes to show the dedication that goes into making these events successful.
How to Start:
Research local events, like farmers’ markets, parades, or cultural festivals. Attend planning meetings to understand the behind-the-scenes efforts.
Example:
A student filmmaker documented preparations for a small-town Diwali festival. The short highlighting the community’s dedication and joy.
Video Time Limit:
10–15 minutes.
Tips:
- Arrive early to capture setup and stay late for cleanup.
- Film crowd reactions to highlight the energy of the event.
- Use handheld shots to immerse viewers in the experience.
5. Local Environmental Issues
Investigate the state of your local environment. This can be polluted rivers, urban green spaces, or endangered species. This is an opportunity to highlight global issues on a relatable scale.
Tip: Include interviews with environmentalists and community members to present diverse perspectives.
How to Start:
Identify a pressing issue in your area. Look at urban development threatening green spaces or waste management challenges. Reach out to activists or experts for interviews.
Example:
“The True Cost” (2015) explores the environmental impact of fast fashion but started as a local story about a landfill issue.
Video Time Limit:
15–30 minutes, depending on complexity.
Tips:
- Use drone footage to showcase affected areas.
- Include before-and-after visuals to show changes over time.
- Balance expert opinions with personal stories from affected residents.
6. Neighborhood Transformations
Explore how your area is changing. It could be down to gentrification, new infrastructure, or population shifts. Document the stories of those affected by these transformations.
Tip: Use “before and after” shots. Pair old photos with current footage to emphasize the evolution of the landscape.
How to Start:
Explore areas undergoing gentrification or infrastructure changes. Speak to longtime residents and newcomers to understand different perspectives.
Example:
A filmmaker documented the transformation of Brooklyn’s Williamsburg neighborhood. It focused on the clash between old and new cultures.
Video Time Limit:
10–20 minutes.
Tips:
- Use contrasting visuals (e.g., new high-rises next to old homes).
- Incorporate interviews and candid street footage.
- Add text overlays to show statistics, like housing prices or population changes.
7. Small Business Stories
Local businesses are rich with personal stories, from family-run stores to startups. Document how they started, their challenges, and their connection to the community.
Tip: Show the human side of business by including personal interviews with owners and staff.
How to Start:
Pick a business with a unique story, such as a family-run diner or a startup with an innovative approach. Spend time observing the daily operations.
Example:
A short documentary on a local coffee shop that employs refugees shared a powerful story of inclusion and hope.
Video Time Limit:
5–15 minutes.
Tips:
- Focus on the people behind the business, not just the operations.
- Include shots of customers interacting with the business.
- Use music to set a welcoming tone.
8. Hobbies and Subcultures
Look for niche groups in your area, such as book clubs, skateboarding crews, or cosplay enthusiasts. These communities often have unique stories and visuals to offer.
Tip: Attend their gatherings and spend time understanding their dynamics before filming. This will help you capture authentic interactions.
How to Start:
Join meetups or clubs to learn about niche hobbies in your area. Spend time gaining their trust and understanding their passion.
Example:
A filmmaker documented a local LARP (live-action role-playing) group. It explored the creativity and camaraderie behind the scenes.
Video Time Limit:
5–20 minutes, depending on the group’s activities.
Tips:
- Use wide shots to capture group dynamics and close-ups for individual moments.
- Highlight rituals, costumes, or equipment central to the subculture.
- Incorporate interviews with members to explain their passion.
9. Local Legends and Mysteries
Investigate local myths, ghost stories, or unexplained phenomena in your area. These stories often mix history, folklore, and a touch of intrigue.
Tip: Use moody lighting and soundscapes to enhance the mystery and draw in your audience.
How to Start:
Gather folklore or ghost stories from your area. Visit the sites associated with these tales to film an atmospheric B-roll.
Example:
“The Legend of Boggy Creek” (1972) explored local Bigfoot sightings in Arkansas and became a cult classic.
Video Time Limit:
5–15 minutes.
Tips:
- Use low-light techniques and eerie sound design to build suspense.
- Include re-enactments or animations for dramatic flair.
- Interview skeptics and believers for balanced storytelling.
10. Everyday Life Through a Unique Lens
Focus on something seemingly mundane. Public transport, street corners, or local diners—and showcase it in a new, artistic way. Find beauty and meaning in the ordinary.
Tip: Experiment with time-lapses, slow motion, or unconventional framing. These bring a fresh perspective to familiar scenes.
How to Start:
Select a routine aspect of life—commuters on a train, street vendors, or people walking their dogs—and find a creative angle.
Example:
A filmmaker created a short video on a single park bench, filming the diverse people who sat there throughout the day.
Video Time Limit:
3–10 minutes.
Tips:
- Use creative techniques like time-lapse or slow motion.
- Focus on patterns or contrasts (e.g., different clothing styles or types of interactions).
- Pair visuals with a poetic or reflective narration.
Technical Checklist for All Projects
• Camera Gear: A DSLR, mirrorless camera, or even a smartphone with stabilization.
• Audio: Invest in a lavalier mic or a directional microphone for clear sound.
• Lighting: Natural light works well, but portable LED panels are considered for low-light settings.
• Editing Software: Start with beginner-friendly tools like iMovie or DaVinci Resolve.
• Distribution: Share your work on YouTube, Vimeo, or social media platforms like Instagram or TikTok to reach your audience.
Final Thoughts
Starting local allows you to tell stories that are close to home, both geographically and emotionally. These projects can serve as stepping stones to bigger opportunities. They are often the most meaningful because they reflect the world you live in.
Whether you’re shooting with a smartphone or a professional setup, the key is to start telling stories. After all, every great filmmaker begins with one simple question: What’s the story I want to tell today?
Local stories are the heart of great storytelling. These projects not only develop your skills but also create meaningful connections within your community. Start small, stay curious, and let your creativity shine!
