Learn the craft of documentary filmmaking from award-winning documentarian Marq Evans. Over the course of three consecutive quarters, students will learn the whole scope of documentary filmmaking, from development through distribution, in a hands-on and project-based environment. Upon completion of this 15-credit Certificate of Completion, students will have completed their own documentary film and learned all the skills necessary to create additional films to sell in the marketplace, create documentary-style “explainer” videos.
Overview
Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Create documentary and non-fiction content from idea to completion.
- Develop a pitch reel and deck for various funding sources.
- Obtain research and archive collection skills.
- Practice the art and craft of interviewing subjects.
- Effectively utilize digital cameras, lighting and audio equipment in studio and location settings.
- Acquire and develop film directing skills as it relates to the documentary form.
- Effectively utilize dramatic act structure and apply to their own documentary film project.
- Integrate and demonstrate non-linear digital film editing and visual effects skills on a documentary film project.
- Demonstrate knowledge of the various contemporary distribution methods for documentary films.
About Marq Evans
About Marq Evans
Marq is an award-winning independent filmmaker, creative entrepreneur, and documentary coach. His most recent documentary, THE DIAMOND KING premiered at the 36th annual Palm Springs International Film Festival in January 2025 where it won "Best of Fest," and was released in April 2025 to great fanfare from the baseball community. His previous film, CLAYDREAM, premiered at the 2021 Tribeca Film Festival to critical acclaim and had an extensive theatrical run in the summer of 2022. It was named one of the top 10 documentaries of 2022 by The A.V. Club. His debut feature film, THE GLAMOUR & THE SQUALOR, won top prize at film festivals around the world and was named one of the top 20 music documentaries of all time by American Songwriter. Marq’s next film, CAPTURING BIGFOOT, will premiere at the 2026 South by Southwest Film Festival and release in 2026. He is represented by XYZ Talent Management.
In addition to film, Marq has produced commercials for clients including the Smithsonian Institute, U.S. Navy, the government of Haiti and Clinton Global Initiative.
With his wife, Angela, and son, Jude, Marq leads The McCaw, a boutique creative studio. The family business creates film, books, photography and other unclassifiable works such as the Cow by Bear dinner party experience.
Marq holds an MFA from Vermont College of Fine Arts and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Washington State University. He lives and works in Bremerton, Washington where he teaches filmmaking.