“Seasoned filmmaker, producer, and educator Chasse wants aspiring documentarians to know exactly how demanding documentary filmmaking truly is. A realist with a sense of humor, she is both stringent and encouraging as she covers every aspect of creating a successful production in The Documentary Filmmaking Master Class, beginning with the crucial questions of why the reader wants to make a nonfiction film. [. . .] This bracing guide will inspire new respect for the challenges and complexity of an often underestimated genre.”
––Booklist starred review

“Betsy Chasse knows her stuff. This book is infused with the kind of experience, wisdom, and hands-on expertise that only comes from being deeply immersed in the world of documentary filmmaking. Betsy stands at the center of the industry and shares the tools and insights needed for creators willing to go the extra mile. By updating this edition, she directly addresses the unique challenges facing a post-pandemic media landscape. As a result, The Documentary Filmmaking Master Class is essential reading for anyone producing film, TV, shorts, or even vertical content in today’s evolving media world.”
––David Michael Latt, co-founder of the Asylum, producer of over 350 films (including Sharknado, Z Nation, and Black Summer) and president of the Asylum Movie Channel across more than 15 FAST channels.

“What Betsy Chasse doesn’t know about documentary filmmaking can fit in a thimble. She understands that a film must be compelling, enlightening, and visually stunning. In our current day, when everyone with an iPhone and a drone thinks they’re a filmmaker, Betsy will teach you how to actually be one.”
––Howard Cohen, co-president, Roadside Attractions

“Betsy is in a filmmaking class all of her own. Not only will her methodical yet straightforward instruction establish the foundational knowledge necessary to succeed, but her wisdom and wit make every page a real treat. This is a book to read and reference again and again.”
––Trina Wyatt, founder and CEO of Conscious Good and founding director of the Tribeca Film Festival

“Rarely do you find a book with just about everything you need to become knowledgeable about making a documentary film. Betsy Chasse is an expert in this field and has put together a book that is truly the master class you need if you’re going to make a film.”
––Jonathan Blank, producer and director, Sex, Drugs & Democracy

“This book is a must-have for anyone considering making a documentary. The information provided is almost impossible to find in one place, if anywhere, and from someone whose experience and wisdom is invaluable.”
––Straw Weisman, producer, Pregnant in America

“Betsy’s depth of knowledge, expertise and insights helped our film reach audiences and marketplaces I never knew possible.”
––Ward Serrill, filmmaker, Song of the New Earth