This document outlines 5 documentary modes: expository, observation, participatory, reflective, and performative. The expository mode uses a voiceover to guide viewers and tries to persuade through interviews. The observation mode minimally intervenes and observes life with post-synchronized dialogue. The participatory mode uses archive footage and involves the documentary maker interacting with subjects. The reflective mode questions what's happening through voiceover and non-realistic techniques. The performative mode aims to give viewers a perspective through presenter interactions on camera.

1. 5 Documentary Modes
By Andrew

2. Developed by American theories
Bill Nicholas which looks into
different conventions of numerous
documentary conventions.

3. Conventions:
• This mode had a ‘Voice of God’ voiceover
which guides the audience
• Rhetorical and try to persuade the viewer
• Usually contain interview from people
Expository Mode

4. Observation Mode
Conventions:
• Minimal intervention
• Observe life
• Use of post synchronized dialogue
• “fly on the wall” style of filmmaking

5. Participatory Mode
Conventions:
• Use of archive footage
• Maker of documentary is usually in the
documentary and interact with the people
they interview
• Doc maker takes role of ‘social actor’

6. Reflective Mode
Conventions:
• Voiceover usually questioning what’s
happening
• Uses ‘anti-realist’ techniques e.g. Dramatic
music

7. Performative Mode
Conventions:
• Aim to make the viewer experience what it
might be like with that perspective on the
world
• Presenter/Doc maker interact in front of
camera