Things I have learned about documentary filmmaking and constantly forget to do:

1. An organization or program very rarely makes a good story. Make sure that your story is about a person or a group of people.

2. Trust your instincts. Shoot things that are interesting to you. Ask questions that you honestly want to know the answer to. Then, LISTEN.

3. When away from home, always wear comfortable shoes and carry anti-diarrhea medicine.

4. Although it is easier said than done, the more constructive criticism you welcome and receive, the more you’ll know your film.

5. Push your film as long as you make your film.

6. Travel the festival circuit by making a strong documentary short.

7. For a first project, choose a subject that is about to experience something that will take place in a finite amount of time.

8. Journal after you shoot.

9. Cast your net wide. Be choosy with your story. Finding a good story IS your job. Force the issue. Ideas come from other ideas so actively look. Educate yourself and notice when your interest goes up.

10.Think about reality casting. People who have one foot in two worlds are good because they can comment, reflect, compare and contrast perspective.

11.Read, listen to music, and watch documentaries. It’s important to know what your peers are doing.

12.Don't let the world you describe be smaller than the one you inhabit. It's okay to fill your story with joy, discovery, surprise, pleasure, and humor.

This was a part of the previous article for World Nomads and I felt really bad about writing these little tidbits. Mostly because I'm still getting them through my thick skull.