Hi there, I wasn't sure where to post this but here it goes... I'm working on a documentary project about my ancestry and family history. The documentary will be three parts and at this point I estimate it to be an hour and a half or two hours in length. The focus of it is my ancestry and family ties to the legendary music artist known as Prince. It explains the origins of my family's surnames in the UK during the middle ages and their eventual arrival to the United States in addition to their connection to the age of Slavery and what occurred in the years following the end of the civil war to descendants living in the present day. It would be adapted from the genealogy research that I have complied in a word document. I've already been contacted by a crowdfunding coach who is willing to help set up a crowdfund campaign for my project which I hope to distribute by way of film festivals, limited theatrical release or possibly live stream on Netflix. Another option I considered was possibly being broadcasted on a channel like BET. However, before I can go any further I need to figure out a budget for my project. Like any documentary this one will include dramatizations, interviews, stock footage/photos and possibly visits to locations that have a connection to my family's history. This documentary will be in memory of my cousin Prince, who I sadly was unable to meet before he passed away in April of this year. The main goals I have in mind are for this project to be used for educational and historical purposes. But long story short, I would greatly appreciate any advice, tips or recommendations for organizing a budget for my project. I've been researching how to put together a documentary but am still new to the whole process. Thank you for reading!
Biggest costs will be for TV footage, film footage, and "rights managed" photos. In PRINCE's case, there is also a cost to use original music. However, if you are a bonafide family member, then try to see what is available for FREE -- from one family member to another. You cannot make your budget until you get confirmation on what free material is available to you -- esp in this case. Good luck. P.S. -- Another option is selling this via Amazon.
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Thanks for the tip, I'll look into it.
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When I was (briefly) trying to produce a short film, I found it helpful to watch the credit sequences of other short films just to get a handle on what kind of categories of professionals were required to make the film. That gave me a basic idea of what areas I would need to budget for. You could also look at application packages for grants for documentary filmmakers. Even if you don't apply, the packages often have budget templates included in them which could be helpful to you. Good luck with your project! Having dug into my own genealogy, I know how compelling the stories that emerge can be. Particularly with a famous relative in the mix.