DocUnit Program

The BXDocUnit offers journalists the opportunity to learn about digital video production, focusing on the short-form documentary format. You will have the opportunity to work with Bolivia-based video professionals to identify, report, shoot, edit and distribute your own documentary short to accompany the print magazine.

Focusing on the run-and-gun style of many independent journalists, you will learn the basics of all facets of creating a mini-documentary, from finding and researching stories, developing and working with sources, production techniques (camera, audio, lighting, etc.), use of professional editing software, and distribution. You will have access to professional equipment used by many top multimedia journalists, but are encouraged to bring your own equipment so you can be prepared with your own gear to continue working upon completion of your BX experience.

Since 2010 Bolivian Express has stood out for offering a unique experience of La Paz and Bolivia, exploring aspects of the culture not available through conventional tourism. This will remain a constant with the BXDocUnit. As a member of unit, you will produce a 3- to 5-minute documentary short to accompany the month’s theme of the magazine. You will be supported with two hours per week of documentary production and theory classes (camera operation, image composition, audio and lighting techniques, editing, scriptwriting, interviewing techniques and more), as well as one-on-one guidance and hands-on, real-world experience in the production of your documentary short.