Postgraduate Certificate in Ethnographic Filmmaking Techniques
Published on June 18, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, I'm thrilled to have Dr. Jane Smith with us today. Dr. Smith is an expert in ethnographic filmmaking and the lead instructor for our Postgraduate Certificate in Ethnographic Filmmaking Techniques. Dr. Smith, welcome! GUEST: Thank you, it's great to be here. HOST: I'm sure our listeners are excited to learn more about this unique course. To start, could you share what drew you to ethnographic filmmaking and what initially sparked your interest in teaching others about it? GUEST: I was drawn to ethnographic filmmaking because it combines my two passions: documenting cultural diversity and visual storytelling. I love helping students explore this intersection of art and anthropology. HOST: That's fascinating. How do you see current industry trends shaping or influencing the field of ethnographic filmmaking? GUEST: There's a growing demand for authentic storytelling and representation, which is a great opportunity for ethnographic filmmakers. We also see more digital platforms embracing diverse content, providing new avenues for students to share their work. HOST: That's certainly an exciting development. Now, what are some challenges students might face while learning these techniques, and how can they overcome them? GUEST: A key challenge is gaining access to communities and maintaining ethical standards while filming. We address this in our course by providing ethical guidelines and encouraging students to build relationships with their subjects. HOST: That's a great point about ethical considerations. Looking forward, how do you see the future of ethnographic filmmaking, and what advice would you give to those interested in this field? GUEST: I believe we'll see increased demand for culturally sensitive content, so my advice is to stay curious and respectful. Keep refining your filmmaking skills, but also develop strong interpersonal and listening skills to truly capture real human experiences. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you so much for sharing your insights with us today! GUEST: My pleasure, thank you for having me!
