EXPERIENCE
The goal of the Documentary Outreach is for our crew to learn a reliable, replicable production process that they can continually leverage to tell engaging stories about real life anywhere around the globe. You are instructed in nonfiction storytelling that has a focus on visual, character driven narratives. Instructional briefings, led by your Actuality Producer, cover research methods, casting, dramatic elements, creating meaning, story outlines, shooting for visual motivation, interviewing techniques, ethical concerns, digital workflow, visual assembly, sound design and more. Every stage of production includes, formal instruction, hands-on workshops and field training.
Each traveler will serve in a specific role for their primary short documentary project. These roles are Producer, Director, Cinematographer or Editor. However, every stage of our production process is highly collaborative and everyone will have the opportunity to participate and learn. All projects will be actively supported by your Actuality Producer. You learn how to execute every stage of the production process through creating your own work and assisting others in their responsibilities.
There are many distinct towns located around the huge Lake Atitlan. Our crew will be staying in the village of San Juan La Laguna in a locally owned guesthouse and sleep in semi-private rooms. Private rooms are available for an additional cost. The guesthouse has a secure, guests-only space to work and relax in, with staff on duty day and night in case you need assistance. Staff members are available to answer questions on how to live, work and explore all around their community.
On each Outreach we utilize public transportation as much as possible. At Lake Atitlan, this means (1) tuk-tuks, (2) boat taxis, (3) and buses. In the village of San Juan La Laguna, everything is walkable although some streets may be quite steep. To get from village to village, we take boat taxis, the most common form of transport around the lake. Within the villages, 2-3 people can hop into a tuk-tuk. If a production destination is outside of town, we will take a regularly schedule public bus or shuttle. Private cars can be arranged for filming when needed. The Actuality Producer and your local guides will be familiar with local transport when you arrive, and will help you understand how to use it.
Private airport transportation is arranged for each crew member upon arrival and departure.
We are currently in discussions with potential storytelling partners in Guatemala and will update once our changemaker is confirmed.