Q:  How is working with New Doc Editing different than working with other documentary film editors?

A:            We have developed innovative methods to keep your viewers engaged and glued to the screen.  We specialize in adapting screenwriting techniques to create emotionally compelling documentaries.  Our exclusive, copyrighted Doc Plot Map™ keeps the post-production team on target, and our focus on story structure keeps audiences enthralled.  Also, in order to guarantee that your vision reaches the screen, we will work with you to articulate your goals.  We call this process DOVES™ (Director’s Outcome, Vision and Editorial Statements) because it keeps the important director/editor collaboration flowing harmoniously.  DOVES™ will not only guide the editing process, it will ensure that your viewers leave the theater with the impression you want to convey.

Q: What happens during the free consultation?

A:            We find out what your film is about, where you are in the project timetable, and assess the potential strength of the story arc.  Most importantly, we find out what your vision for the film is.  This includes tangible objectives (budget, target audience, distribution scenarios) as well as intangible goals.  We want to know what making this film really means to you, and how you want viewers to feel when they’re done watching it. 

You will also learn about our storytelling process–how we help filmmakers create inspiring documentaries that keep viewers glued to the screen.  Your goals, vision and compatibility with our approach then help determine whether working with New Doc Editing is a good match.  If so, and we hope that’s the case, we’ll work together to plan the next three steps:  1) articulating your vision with DOVES™ to guide the post-production process; 2) customizing our exclusive Doc Plot Map™ to your film, to provide structural clarity for translating your vision and 3) creating a post-production timetable that will work comfortably within your budget.

Q: Where is New Doc Editing located?  What if I live in another state or country?

A:            We are based in San Francisco but are equipped with the latest open source technology that allows easy collaboration from anywhere around the globe.  That means you save time during your busy day, reduce your carbon footprint, and experience close collaboration with your editor.  Imagine viewing the latest cut on your computer screen at the exact same time as your editor, pausing to make comments, even watching your editor make timeline edits-and you get the picture.

Q: I like to be closely involved in the editing process.  How closely would we work together?

A:            The great thing about handing your material over to an editor is that it gives you an opportunity to mull the film over.  It’s healthy to take a break from the footage that has likely dominated your thoughts for several months.  You can then return to it fresh, with new perspective.  We believe that creativity is nurtured through a balance of solitude and collaboration.  For us that means working alone for several days or a few weeks, depending on the cut.  Most directors seem to appreciate this arrangement, as it gives them time to attend to other business and rejuvenate their own creative juices.

When the latest version of your documentary is edited, our collaboration will focus on essential questions such as

• Is the overall feel of the film in line with the your vision? 

• Is the structure building emotional intensity act by act, scene by scene? 

• Is it engaging? 

We’ll also want to assess how well specific objectives are being met for each of the four stages of editing:  assembly cut, rough cut, fine cut and locked picture.

If you want to sit with your editor as she makes cuts, or stop in daily to view progress, you may prefer hiring an editor who will work on your premises rather than opt for our set up.

Q:  I’m editing my film myself.  How can New Doc Editing help?

A:            Click here to learn how our story consulting services will help you get clear on your story no matter what stage you are in.  It will save you time, money and the agony of feeling lost. It could easily be the best decision you make on your film!

Q:  Explain more about having other editors view my film. 

A:            One of the ways we have innovated our business to better accommodate directors’ needs is by creating a consortium of top-notch editors (many of whom have been nominated for Academy Awards) to give feedback on cuts.  With your permission, your cut gets seen and critiqued by one of these experts who acts as a story consultant during rough cut stage.  This valuable critique costs you nothing.  The advantage of this model is that you get two heads for the price of one.

Free Consultation

To learn more about how New Doc Editing can keep your viewers glued to the screen, take advantage of our free half-hour consultation.  Email us today!