Documentary storytelling is a powerful tool for conveying a message, but how do you balance objectivity and subjectivity in a documentary? Objectivity is the presentation of facts, while subjectivity is an opinion or interpretation of those facts. Both play an important role in documentary storytelling, and it’s important to understand the differences between the two and how they can shape the story.
Objectivity is necessary in documentary filmmaking to present factual information and to provide the viewer with a clear understanding of the story. The facts should be presented in a straightforward manner, with no slant or bias. The audience needs to trust that the filmmakers are presenting the facts accurately and that they have not inserted their own opinion or perspective. This can be difficult when the filmmaker is personally involved with the subject of the documentary, so it’s important to be mindful of potential biases.
Subjectivity, on the other hand, provides the filmmaker with an opportunity to present their own unique perspective on the topic at hand. It allows for a more creative approach to storytelling, as the filmmaker can use their own experiences and opinions to shape the narrative. However, it’s important to remain mindful of potential biases, as the filmmaker’s own perspective could cloud the facts.
It’s important to find a balance between objectivity and subjectivity in documentary storytelling. Too much objectivity can make the story feel dull and one-dimensional, while too much subjectivity can make the story feel biased and one-sided. The key is to use both elements to create an engaging and well-rounded story.
When balancing objectivity and subjectivity in documentary storytelling, it’s important to remember that the facts are the foundation of the story. The audience needs to trust that the filmmakers have presented the facts accurately, and that any opinion or interpretation of those facts is done with integrity. Additionally, it’s important to be aware of any potential biases, as these can affect how the story is presented. By carefully considering both objectivity and subjectivity, filmmakers can create compelling and informative stories that engage their audience.