The Documentary Filmmaking Master Classe

Next 4 week Session begins Wednesday May 12th, 2021

Book now

Based on the best-selling book The Documentary Filmmaking Master Class, go deeper into each chapter, actual case studies and interactive 2 hour sessions each week. The book is required reading for the course & creators should come prepared to develop your own project.

What You'll Get From The Documentary Filmmaking Masterclass

Documentary filmmaking requires more than just a passion for the subject, whether it be one’s personal story or that of someone else, a historical event or a startling discovery, a political movement or a heinous crime. Making a documentary and getting it in front of an audience requires determination, careful planning, money, and a strong production team. With over thirty years of experience in filmmaking, author Betsy Chasse mentors readers every step of the way with a down-to-earth approach and invaluable advice. Chapters cover topics such as:

• Choosing a Subject
• Developing a Business Plan
• Securing Financial Backing
• Assembling a Production Team
• Nailing Interviews and Shooting B-Roll
• Getting through Post-Production
• Distributing and Marketing the Film

Both novices and experienced filmmakers will benefit from this all-inclusive guide. With the right knowledge, persistence, and The Documentary Filmmaking Master Class in their back pockets, readers will not only turn their visions into reality, they’ll be able to share the results with others and navigate the process with confidence.

Requirements: Must purchase; The Documentary Filmmaking Master Class: 

The course will begin May 12th and run for 4 weeks every Wednesday 10am-12pm pst. You will receive the zoom login information about 1 week prior to the launch of the course. Replays will be available.

Book Now! Fee: $199.00 

In addition to the 4 2 hours session, Betsy will offer 1-hour intensive consults in groups of no more than 5 people. To be scheduled within the 4-week period.

What people are saying about Betsy Chasse's work:

“Seasoned filmmaker, producer, and educator Chasse wants aspiring documentarians to know exactly how demanding documentary filmmaking truly is. A realist with a sense of humor, she is both stringent and encouraging as she covers every aspect of creating a successful production in The Documentary Filmmaking Master Class, beginning with the crucial questions of why the reader wants to make a nonfiction film. [. . .] This bracing guide will inspire new respect for the challenges and complexity of an often underestimated genre.” —Booklist starred review

“What Betsy Chasse doesn’t know about documentary filmmaking can fit in a thimble. She understands that a film must be compelling, enlightening, and visually stunning. In our current day, when everyone with an iPhone and a drone thinks they’re a filmmaker, Betsy will teach you how to actually be one.” —Howard Cohen, co-president, Roadside Attractions

“Betsy is in a filmmaking class all of her own. Not only will her methodical yet straightforward instruction establish the foundational knowledge necessary to succeed, but her wisdom and wit make every page a real treat. This is a book to read and reference again and again.” —Trina Wyatt, founder and CEO of Conscious Good and founding director of the Tribeca Film Festival

“Rarely do you find a book with just about everything you need to become knowledgeable about making a documentary film. Betsy Chasse is an expert in this field and has put together a book that is truly the master class you need if you’re going to make a film.” —Jonathan Blank, producer and director, Sex, Drugs & Democracy

“This book is a must-have for anyone considering making a documentary. The information provided is almost impossible to find in one place, if anywhere, and from someone whose experience and wisdom is invaluable.” —Straw Weisman, producer, Pregnant in America

“Betsy’s depth of knowledge, expertise and insights helped our film reach audiences and marketplaces I never knew possible.” —Ward Serrill, filmmaker, Song of the New Earth