DOCUMENTARY MODES

Poetic Mode

Emphasizes visual associations, tonal or rhythmic qualities, descriptive passages, and formal organization.

Often closely related to experimental, personal, and avant-garde filmmaking.

1.

Expository Mode

Emphasizes verbal commentary and argumentative logic.

Most commonly associated with traditional documentary filmmaking.

2.

Observational Mode

Emphasizes direct engagement with the everyday life of subjects using an unobtrusive camera.

Focuses on capturing real-life situations without intervention.

3.

Participatory Mode

Emphasizes interaction between the filmmaker and subject.

Often involves direct involvement in the subject's activities.

Frequently incorporates archival footage to explore historical issues.

4.

Reflexive Mode

Draws attention to the assumptions and conventions of documentary filmmaking.

Makes the audience aware of the constructed nature of the film's representation of reality.

5.

Performative Mode

Emphasizes the filmmaker's subjective and expressive involvement with the subject.

Rejects notions of objectivity in favor of evocation and emotional impact on the audience.

6.