
"Documentary Fundamentals is more detailed than my filmmaking degree but summed up more efficiently and taught in a more engaging way, for a fraction of the cost."
-Henry Donald, Film Graduate

"This course has been incredibly valuable to my development in documentary filmmaking... I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in unlocking their creativity through the art of documentary filmmaking."
-Amanda Mitchell, Beginner Filmmaker

"Documentary Fundamentals has been such a great resource and community for learning the essential elements of documentary filmmaking."
-Zak Bentley, Documentary Filmmaker
Make and Finish Your Documentary
Have a great idea for a documentary but don’t know where to start? You’re not alone. Many aspiring filmmakers never finish their first film—not because they lack passion, but because they don’t have a clear path forward.
That’s why we created Documentary Fundamentals—a simple, step-by-step online course that guides you from idea to finished documentary without stress or confusion.
- No film school needed. Learn what really matters.
- No endless YouTube searches. Follow a clear, structured system.
- No expensive gear required. Start with what you have—even a phone.
- No doing it alone. Join a community of filmmakers for support, feedback, and inspiration.
With practical lessons, hands-on exercises, a supportive filmmaking community and a proven process, you’ll stay motivated, take action, and actually finish your documentary. Plus, you get lifetime access, so you can learn at your own pace.
Your documentary idea deserves to be made. Start now with Documentary Fundamentals.


"this is the course for you"
by Hunter Williams -Â Documentary Filmmaker
Documentary Fundamentals will help you:

Decide what kit to buy
Explore various equipment options to assist you in choosing the most suitable for your project.

Develop a compelling idea
Discover the key elements required to craft a riveting film that captivates and thrills your audience.

Put together a film crew
Learn new strategies and insights for assembling a team to help realise your documentary vision.

Get your film funded
Discover our tried and tested strategies to get funding for your dream documentary project.

Master camera settings
Master your camera settings with confidence using our step-by-step guides and cheat sheets.

Create cinematic shots
Discover our step-by-step guide to achieving stunning visuals, regardless of location.

Edit your documentary
Follow our step-by-step guide to transform your footage into a captivating documentary.

Market your film
Learn strategies and techniques to ensure your film doesn't get forgotten about and gets seen by the world.
Learn Step-by-step How to Make a Documentary
Our fast-track documentary course will empower you with the skills, resources, and confidence you need to bring your dream documentary to life.
Join NowÂ
COURSE OUTLINE
Supercharge your filmmaking journey with Documentary Fundamentals

 Introduction
- Welcome to Documentary Fundamentals
- What filmmaking Kit Should I buy?
- The Documentary Filmmakers Checklist
- 7 Tips for Documentary Filmmakers
Module 1
Pre-Production
- Intro to Pre-production
- Find your idea
- Three-Act Structure
- How to put together a film crew
- How to create a treatment


Module 2
Producing
- Intro to producing
- How to fund your documentary
- How to create a budget
- How to put together a schedule
- How to create a production binder
- How to create a callsheet
Module 3
Camera Basics
- Intro to camera basics
- Camera resolution
- Frame rates
- Aspect ratio
- Picture profile
- White balance
- Depth of field & focal length


Module 4
Filmmaking Techniques (P1)
- Intro to filmmaking techniques
- Composition
- Exposure
- Camera angles
- Camera movement
Module 5
Filmmaking Techniques (P2)
- Keeping your subject in focus
- Natural lighting
- How to record sound on location
- Preparing for interviews
- How to film an interviewÂ


Module 6
Editing Your Documentary
- Overview of editing workflow
- Labeling, syncing & organising
- Transcribing your footage
- Paper edit
- Assembly edit
- Rough cut
- Fine edit
Module 7
Marketing
- Intro to marketing
- Online vs festival film release
- Tips to successful social media marketing


Meet Your Instructor
Learn documentary filmmaking from award-winning filmmaker; Sebastian Solberg. Discover the power of documentary filmmaking and learn from Sebastian's 15+ years of experience in the field and build the skills you need to create powerful, impactful documentary films.
BONUSES
Here are some of the amazing perks you get with Documentary Fundamentals

Expert coaching & support
We host regular video calls where you can ask questions & get feedback on your films.

Save money on software
Get discounts with our brand partners (Red Giant, Mister Horse, Noun Project and more).

Connect with a supportive community
Connect with like-minded filmmakers with our private DFA community.

Workbooks & templates
We supply templates and workbooks to help you make your documentary.

Get a certificate of completion
Complete your certification and learn filmmaking skills that will set you apart.

Lifetime access
Get lifetime access to all current and all new content that is added to this course.

"It’s been an amazing experience!"
by Cristina Ballesteros - Netflix Editor
More reviews
What are our students are saying about Documentary Fundamentals?

Angharad George-Carey
Beginner Filmmaker
“I genuinely cannot tell you how much this course has lifted my confidence. I now have what Seb calls a three-act structure, a treatment, and I could pitch my idea to a room of people."

Simon Cade
YouTuber
“Anyone who's interested in making documentaries should get this course. I know I'll definitely be returning to specific segments as different things arise in my filmmaking career."

Erin Wallace
Content Producer
“This has been a smooth and clear step-by-step guide through making a documentary. I was able to learn at my own pace and go back to sections I wanted to repeat with ease.”
FAQ
Do I need expensive equipment?
Do I need to learn every skillset?
How long can I access the content?
Who is this courses built for?
Do I receive a certificate upon completing the course?
Why should I choose this course over traditional film school or YouTube tutorials?
How long does it take to complete the course?
Can I get a refund if I'm not satisfied with the course?
How many hours long is the course?
Are subtitles or captions available for the videos in this course?

Risk Free.
30 Day Money Back Guarantee.
At Documentary Film Academy, we prioritise your satisfaction. That's why we offer an unconditional, risk-free, 30-day money-back guarantee for our online course Documentary Fundamentals. If within 30 days of your initial purchase, you feel our course isn't for you, simply email us for a full, no-questions-asked refund. So, join today and start your journey into documentary filmmaking with absolute confidence in your investment.