You have started work on a documentary about ‘…’. You have been given the above directive. Where do you begin?
The Subject
Obviously the subject of the documentary will give you the first lead.
Example 1: The History of Aviation
A production about the history of aviation could take you on a lengthy journey through libraries, the world-wide web, museums, the air forces of various countries, the historic societies devoted to preserving old planes, etc.
Example 2: The Sun-Worshippers of SE London
A production about the sun-worshippers of South East London will take you to South East London (probably at dawn) to witness the worshippers in action – to a second floor flat in Camberwell which houses the headquarters of the sect – to the libraries for some historical background and to the local newspaper who first brought the subject to light.
Example 3: The Training of Nurses
A production on the training of nurses would take you to various teaching hospitals, to the library for nursing manuals, and to much discussion with teachers and trainee nurses.
Once you know the subject, you can start researching into the most obvious aspects and other paths of exploration will open up.
The more you dig around, the more you uncover, and the amount of time, energy and patience you devote to the subject depends on the needs of the production and your instinct as a bloodhound.
Other Bodies for Research
Below is a short list of places which might prove helpful in beginning your research:
The Internet
Libraries
Town halls
Government departments
Law courts
Welfare institutions
Army/Navy/Air Forces
Universities
Newspapers (national and local)
Film and video libraries
Research
Libraries can be useful starting points for research.