the wanderlust academy
documentary filmmaker advanced skills training
& in-house content creation courses
Our founder, Ellie, has spent years perfecting a unique storytelling formula and producing engaging films across the globe. Now, she’s here to share that expertise with you through exclusive training courses — empowering you to create compelling content and authentic documentaries that stand out.
for brands:
stage 1
The Plan
Our team works with you to develop a bespoke training program depending on your needs.
stage 2
Academy
Your team will learn from us in a practical setting either whilst we film a promo for you, or in a replica training shoot.
stage 3
1:1 Training
We’re there to answer any questions your team and teach use of your equipment and editing software.
stage 4
Aftercare
Follow-up zoom for each participant to answer any questions. You will also gain access to our online hub.
We are partnered with OM System Cameras (Formerly Olympus) so can provide video equipment for training purposes for every member of your team.
THE MENU
Choose from:
THE FORMULA FOR ENGAGING SOCIAL MEDIA VIDEOS
ONE-TO-ONE SESSIONS
TRAINING ON OM SYSTEM PROVIDED CAMERAS:OM1 OR OM5
A KIT LIST TO SET YOUR TEAM UP
GROUP STAFF TRAINING: HOW TO MAXIMISE SMART PHONE USE & INCENTIVISE STAFF ACROSS THE BUSINESS TO CAPTURE CONTENT.
HOW TO CREATE YOUR OWN BUSINESS DOCUMENTARY CONTENT LIKE 'MEET THE FOUNDER' FILMS
HOW TO STORYBOARD AND PLAN YOUR FILMS
HOW TO FRAME YOUR SHOTS AND HOW TO AVOID COMMON MISTAKES
HOW TO STYLE YOUR SHOOT
HOW TO USE NATURAL LIGHT
WHEN NOT TO FILM
HOW TO RELAX PEOPLE IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA
HOW TO EDIT YOUR VIDEOS & EDITING HACKS
PHOTOGRAPHY TECHNIQUES
PHOTOGRAPHY TECHNIQUES
IN-DEPTH EQUIPMENT TRAINING:
- VIDEO RECORD SETTINGS
- COLOUR PROFILES
- EXPOSURE TIPS
- BREAKING DOWN THE TERMINOLOGY OF SHUTTER SPEEDS & APERTURES
- HOW TO USE A GIMBAL AND WHEN TO USE ONE
- DRONE RULES AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR ACCREDITED COACHES
FOR FILMMAKERS
Each year Ellie opens up her diary to two filmmakers for her 1-1 documentary filmmaking academy.
If you’re a filmmaker stuck shooting content that doesn’t inspire you — and you’ve always wanted to create real, story-driven documentaries but don’t know where to start — this is for you. I offer 1:1 training workshops designed to give you the practical skills and creative confidence to step into the world of documentary filmmaking. Whether you’re unsure how to shoot with purpose, shape a narrative, or simply want to rediscover your passion, I’ll help you build the tools to tell stories that actually matter.
In these sessions, you’ll learn how to:
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Identify and shape compelling real-world stories
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Build trust with contributors and conduct powerful interviews
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Plan and shoot with intention — no more aimless B-roll
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Use cinematography to enhance, not just capture, your story
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Structure a documentary narrative that holds an audience
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Work solo or with small crews effectively
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Avoid common pitfalls in doc storytelling and production
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Develop your own style and voice as a filmmaker
