Sharjah: With the world increasingly divided and media more fragmented, documentaries remain a powerful tool for awareness, change, and connection. At the 9th International Photography Festival (Xposure), the panel discussion, 'Filmmaking for Change: Documentaries That Matter', explored this impact.
According to Emirates News Agency, filmmakers Rick Smolan, Jerome Pin, and Dennis Schmelz discussed how documentaries capture humanity in war zones and reshape perspectives on nature. French documentary maker Pin, whose work spans war zones and environmental crises, emphasised the importance of giving a voice to those who are unheard. Reflecting on his early work documenting refugees after the Rwandan genocide, Pin recounted a moral dilemma he faced while reporting on 400,000 people crossing the Congo wilderness. Although he initially put his camera down to assist UNICEF with logistics, he later realized his responsibility was to document and share the unfolding crisis. His work eventually provided evidence for a Human Rights Watch investigation into crimes against humanity.
Dennis Schmelz, known for showcasing hidden destinations, spoke about the evolution of his career. Initially focused on tourism, Schmelz found himself drawn to projects with deeper meaning. A commercial train project in India exposed him to stark socioeconomic contrasts, inspiring him to create a short film that unexpectedly went viral, reaching nearly half a million viewers.
The discussion also touched on the financial hurdles faced by documentary filmmakers. Photojournalist Rick Smolan, renowned for his Day in the Life photography books, shared his strategy of partnering with corporate sponsors to fund his projects. By offering sponsors visibility rather than editorial control, Smolan was able to secure resources while maintaining the integrity of his work. He noted, however, that younger filmmakers face unique challenges in an era dominated by short-form content like TikTok, emphasizing the enduring power of long-form documentaries.
Social issue films often struggle to demonstrate their value to potential backers, yet Schmelz highlighted the crucial role of authenticity. He asserted that audiences can discern when filmmakers are motivated by genuine causes rather than merely seeking clicks.
Organised by the Sharjah Government Media Bureau, Xposure 2025 is taking place in Aljada, Sharjah until 26th February.