He identified six sub-genres of documentary in his book 'Introduction to Documentary'. These were poetic, expository, participatory, observational, reflexive and performative.
- Expository (voice of god) is the most used form of documentary, often seen in nature documentaries and John Grierson documentaries.
- Poetic (subjective, artistic expression). This emphasises the visuals and often includes long, descriptive passages.
- Observational (objective). This tries to capture objective reality with the filmmaker as a neutral observer.
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- Participatory. Includes direct engagement between the filmmaker and the subject. The filmmaker is apart of the events.
- Reflexive (awareness of the process). This realises the constructed nature of documentaries and flaunts it.
- Performative (filmmaker as participant). This emphasises the emotional impact on the audience and the subjectivity of the filmmaker.
John Corner
Believes that there are 5 elements to documentaries.
- Observation. A sense of observation is needed and can be used as evidence.
- Interview. Documentaries rely on interviews to create an balanced argument and give a wider view.
- Dramatization. Used to create a sense of conflict and build up an argument.
- Mis en scene. This is important for constructing reality.
- Exposition. This is when the documentary reveals what argument is being explored, which can be done through narrative, descriptions or commentary.
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