Codes and Conventions of television documentaries 2

The Documentary Genre

Expository
This is defined by the "voice of God" narration which addresses the viewer and anchors the meaning of the images to make it seem more objective and honest.

Observational (fly on the wall)
This style began in America (1960s) using lightweight equipment to allow mobility. These documentaries avoid voice-overs and the camera is as unobtrusive as possible. Observational documentaries often tend to focus on specific individuals during a crisis. Events unfold in front of the camera and the makers do not no the outcome.

Docusoaps
This a development of the observational documentary, these are a popular combination of documentary series that follows a group of characters that are entertaining and quirky, like soaps. Whats sets docusoaps apart from their predecessors is their prioritisation of entertainment over social commentary. E.g. Airport, Driving School.

This type of documentary was made possible by lightweight camera equipment making intrusion to the narrative minimal. These have a soap-like structure with several different plots with different people.

Reality TV
This is real people in an unreal situation, reality television is now a combination of many different programme types as it's often referred to as "infotainment". Programmes such as; Emergency 999 and Police, Camera, Action.

Reality TV is a mix of raw and authentic material with the seriousness of an information programme and the commercial success of tabloid content.

Reality TV is characterised by;
Surveillance or observational camera work
Primary event, eye witness testimony
Studio to camera links with commentary from presenters.

Interactive
The style of documentary acknowledges the presence of the camera and crew, this means that the documentary can focus on the information rather than the objective view. E.g. The Saturdays 24/7.

The multiple viewpoints constantly remind the audience that this is different to the other genres without the "voice of God".

Drama-documentary
E.g. The Office

There is a difference between docudrama and dramadoc;
Docudrama - fictional story using techniques from a documentary to make it seem real.
Dramadoc - reconstruction using techniques from fiction cinema.

Current Affairs
E.g. Newsnight
This genre debates that days news.

Documentary Dilemmas
Footage is rarely unedited when it is broadcast therefore, the film-maker has to balance their responsibility of the legal obligations and making a successful programme, also responsibility to entertain and inform.