Never held a camera? Perfect. This workshop is designed for you. Learn documentary storytelling as a practice of bearing witness and preserving what matters with Emmy Award-winning documentary producer Amanda Pisetzner.
Through lecture, case studies, hands-on exercises, and group activities, you discover storytelling fundamentals through the framework of two essential storytelling archetypes—the witness and the guardian—including:
- The fundamentals of documentary storytelling and how to apply them to personal narratives
- How to follow intuition in finding and developing stories that matter
- Conscious interviewing techniques to create containers for authentic exchange
- How to shape stories while honoring the dignity of all involved
- Accessible tips and tricks for professional-looking interviews without professional equipment
Using accessible equipment such as a smartphone, DSLR, or any camera that can record video, you explore hands-on filming exercises in pairs and small groups, as well as group discussion and storytelling circles exploring archetypal frameworks.
You leave with practical storytelling skills, creative confidence, and an understanding of yourself as a storyteller, witness, and guardian of narrative. You come away with the recognition of storytelling as sacred work that fosters connection, preserves wisdom across generations, and honors our shared humanity.
Whether you're drawn to personal narratives, curious about your community, or simply want to see the world through a new lens—this is your invitation to begin.
