Our new Factual Filmmaking for Beginners workshop will be taking place at LFS for the first time this Easter. We caught up with filmmaker and workshop leader, Tracey Gardiner to find out what the course was all about, what participants can expect and how they prepare.
Tell us about your background in factual filmmaking and your connection to LFS?
I have been making factual programmes and feature documentaries for more than 25 years, before that I worked in the City of London as an analyst. I brought these analytical skills to making current affairs programmes initially but after a couple of years started making a range of programmes, from formatted to history and from observational documentaries to presenter led. I worked at one company for over 15 years and then set up my own small production company to use as a vehicle to make the sorts of programmes that interest me.
I developed and started teaching factual programme development and producing at the LFS over a decade ago during which time these short courses have been adapted. I now also teach university students how to make documentaries and journalistic films.
How will the workshop help prepare participants for a career in filmmaking?
It will provide an overview of how the entire production process works which will help equip them to either develop and produce their own factual content or get work in independent production companies where technical skills and knowhow is always n advantage.
Who should apply and what are the conditions to getting onto the workshop?
There are no conditions other than enthusiasm! It is suitable for anyone who has a keen interest in coming up with factual ideas, pitching them, raising production funds to making them. Some knowledge would be helpful of any part of the production process, but it is not essential.
How should the participants prepare for the course?
To get the most out of the course come with one of two ideas that you would like to develop. And watch the kind of factual content that you admire and would like to make.
What can participants expect on the course?
It will be hard work and very informative but also a great deal of fun. You will gain practical skills in filming and editing and guidance on how to develop your ideas and pitch them. These ideas will be budgeted and there will be discussions about funding options. By the end you should be sufficiently confident technically to edit a scene, a taster tape or a short film and know how to write up and pitch your ideas to give them the best chance you can of getting funded.
What advice would you give for participants to make the most of Factual Filmmaking for Beginners Workshop
Devote the ten days to the course, do the prep and engage with other participants this is an opportunity to meet likeminded people.
Thanks so much to Tracey. We can’t wait to see what the workshop students produce.
If you’re interested in taking part in the Factual Filmmaking for Beginners workshop or any other workshops, then visit to find out more: LFS Workshops Schedule | London Film School