Types Of Documentary.

Expository (Voice Of God): Characterised by an omniscient voiceover narrator who speaks over images but is not usually seen. This type of documentary is often used by film-makes who to present a particular argument or point of view.

Observational (fly on the wall): The camera observes people going about their lives. There may be little or no voice narration and the film-makers do not appear. This type of documentary is often used by film-makers who want to investigate the behaviour of real people in a particular environment.

Poetic: Some documentaries use highly artistic or poetic devices - symbolic visual images, music, editing techniques etc. This type of documentary may be used by film-makers who want to make an emotional effect, rather than to communicate an intellectual argument.

Participatory: In this type of documentary the film-maker interacts with his/her subjects. The personality of the film-maker therefor becomes a part of the documentary, and the interactions with other people may become the focus of the narrative.

Docudrama: Some documentaries are presented in dramatic form. These might feature re-enactments of events that might happen in the future. This type of documentary makes use of the techniques of fictional film, enabling the film-maker to develop a powerful narrative and build suspense.

Reflexive: This type of documentary turns its gaze on itself. A reflexive documentary constantly reflects on how it's being made. The camera crew and equipment may be shown and the film-makers may feature, discussing their own film.