In this session, moderated by Lily Qi, filmmakers Sonia Desai-Rayka, Valerie Soe, and Priyanka Suryaneni (all from previous A-Doc microdocs series) break down their creative process of developing compelling short-form nonfiction work: From identifying an initial idea to shaping story, tone, and structure, panelists will discuss how they build narratives with impact in mind. The conversation will also explore experimentation, accessibility, and the ways short-form work can serve both as a powerful standalone medium and as a gateway to larger projects and campaigns. This is part three of our four-part educational series designed to help filmmakers strengthen key practices around impact strategy, audience engagement, and short-form storytelling.
“The form seems easy, right? You just need to make a three minute film, but it’s actually very challenging when you’re trying to execute idea.” – Lily Qi
Since filmmakers have only a few minutes, they have to be extremely intentional about what they shoot and what the audience truly needs. Priyanka explains that limited crew hours and budget forced her to plan carefully rather than follow the common documentary impulse to keep filming and discover everything later. She found that this constraint ultimately brought greater discipline to her documentary practice.
The panel broadens the definition of impact beyond festivals or large campaigns. Community screenings can be particularly meaningful because the people represented in a film have an opportunity to see themselves reflected and engage directly with the work. A finished microdoc can also begin conversations while a longer project is still years away from completion, helping filmmakers cultivate audiences and community around a subject early.
One of the biggest takeaways from the session is that a microdoc doesn’t have to be viewed as a lesser version of a longer film. It can be a complete film, an impact tool, an audience-building vehicle, or the seed of something larger.
Be sure to check out films, festival panels, and more on A-Doc’s YouTube page.