This document provides guidance on researching for a documentary production. It discusses researching information online and through organizations, newspapers, and speaking to people directly. It also discusses finding and selecting expert contributors, assessing their credibility and interests. Additionally, it addresses researching archive footage rights and costs, scouting suitable filming locations, and writing briefing documents. Finally, it discusses on-location responsibilities like catering to presenters and ensuring smooth filming, as well as post-production tasks like archive clearance and thank you letters.

1. Researching

2. What might you Research?InformationContributorsExpertsArchiveLocations

3. Where to Start? - Information1) Online searches e.g. wikipedia – need to check validity2) Organisations – speak to them – N.B. may have a vested interest3) Newspaper search4) Pursue multiple leads simultaneously5) Speak to people!

4. Where to Start? - ContributorsWho are you looking for? Do they need to have a particular skill/ experience/ profile?Where might you find them?Are there organisations who may be able to help?Do you need a press release or website trail?192/ Electoral Roll

5. ContributorsHow are you going to select them?How do you know if they will be any good?How are you going to speak to them?How might you curtail the conversation?How will you let them know if you want them to take part or not?How might you persuade them to take part?Always check with contributors day before shootAfter care

6. ExpertsResearch the credibility of your ExpertDo they have a vested interest? Talk to several different possible ExpertsAsk if they’ve done TV before – see them on tapeGive them a camera test

7. ArchiveWhat Rights do you need?What is your budget? Research what archive there is and who holds it? Are dubbing copies available?Remember that different archive holders may hold the same footage but charge different prices.Source as much archive as possible from contributors or other organisations

8. LocationsWhat do you need? E.g. Stately homeDoes it need to be near somewhere else? E.g. near Expert’s house, or near production base.Is there a fee?What facilities are needed e.g. will you use their electricity/ tea/coffee/loos?How easy is it to get to?Is it a quiet location? Recce

9. Writing BriefsDetails of story breakdownExpert’s detailsContributor details – name, address, phone, emailLocation detailsArchiveBackground informationLogistics – liaise with Production Manager and PC

10. On LocationLook after Presenter, Expert and ContributorsTalk them through what is going to happenAsk director if you’re to make a note of questions, cutaways etcMake sure you keep contributors happy

11. Post ProductionOrder and clear archiveThank you lettersSend out TX info to contributors, DVDs etcAfter care with contributors