What do you think of when you hear the term “elementary?” Does it have a negative connotation, as though it means something too basic, simple, or easy? Does it take you back to the carefree days of elementary school? Does it make you channel your inner Sherlock Holmes: “Elementary, my dear Watson?”

One word can mean so many different things, just as one topic can be treated in so many different ways by different filmmakers. At Docs In Progress, we define “elementary” as a the aspects of a subject which are necessary to learn in order to progress to understanding more complex one. Building blocks, if you will.

That is one of the key goals of Docs In Progress -- to give aspiring and emerging filmmakers access to those building blocks of becoming good filmmakers. For someone brand new to filmmaking, their building blocks may be the chance to make a short documentary exercise in our production class or youth summer camp. For someone who already understands the basics of how to use a camera or edit, their building blocks may be more focused on developing the story for their first documentary film. Wherever someone is starting, there is a space to explore the basics so that they can get to the next stage and actually see a documentary through to completion.

In 2012, Docs In Progress will be launching a Scholarship Program which will help make it possible for more people (both adults and youth) to have access to those building blocks of documentary filmmaking. The crucial element to make this happen is your support.

Campaign Update

We've raised $475 of our $5,000 goal through online donations.  Special thanks to our latest funders, Madeleine Bondy, Tiki Pie, and Kiley Krakouskas!

With only 33 days to go, if we raise just $20 each day from sixof our readers, we will meet our goal.  What are you waiting for?

Click here to find out how to give online.*

* Docs In Progress is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.  All donations are tax-deductible up to the full extent of the law. While it's easier and more fun to give online where we offer perks, we also accept mailed donations by check or you can give your donation at our Winter Open House this coming Friday, December 9.