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A documentary technique where the filmmaker takes a passive role, simply observing the subject without influencing or participating in the events.

A style of documentary filmmaking that combines naturalistic techniques with stylized cinematic practices. Cinéma Vérité seeks to observe life as it is without any manipulation.

A documentary genre that aims to capture reality as it happens, without the filmmaker's involvement, often avoiding interviews or narration.

Historical footage used in documentaries to provide background, context, or evidence of the time period being discussed or the subject matter.

A traditional documentary mode that uses an authoritative voice-over to explain and comment on the footage being presented to the audience.

The placement of two contrasting scenes, subjects, or ideas next to each other in a documentary to highlight differences or create a rhetorical effect.

The use of off-screen voice to convey information and context to the audience. Documentaries often use narration to guide the viewer through the story.

A shot featuring a person speaking directly to the camera, often used in interviews within documentaries. Can be visually static, hence often interspersed with B-roll.

Staged reproductions of past events for the purpose of providing visuals to accompany narrative elements of a documentary, usually when no archival footage exists.

A mode of documentary where the filmmaker actively engages with the subject matter, often becoming part of the story themselves through interviews or interaction.

Supplementary footage that provides context, supports interviews, and adds visual interest. In documentary filmmaking, B-roll is essential for covering edits and preventing a 'talking heads' scenario.