Ben Nichols: 6 modes of documentary

Ben Nichols developed the idea of 6 modes/representation of documentary, that set up conventions that a given film may adopt, and then give expectations for viewers of the specific type.

1) Poetic
Poetic documentaries arrange footage in an order to evoke an audience through tone or rhythm.
2) Expository
This type of documentary constructs a specific argument or a point of view for the audience. Generally the formula is authoritative voice that tells you what the footage represents or shows.
3) Participatory
The audience are invited to participate in the documentary, and this is usually by being interviewed.
4) Observational
The producer allows the camera to show the true meaning, and capturing the subjects featured uninterrupted, in order to reveal to the audience through observation the true facts.
5) Reflexive
This feature develops the relationship between the filmmaker and the audience, rather than the filmmaker and the subject. It shows the man/woman behind the voice to the audience.
6) Performative
This type of documentary emphasises truth as relative, and favours a personal take over the objective lens of the camera.

Following reading Nichols' 6 modes of documentary, I can see that participatory and observational documentaries will be the base for my own 3 minute opening. I will be including interviews, as well as footage of behind the scenes and training .