One of the best ways for documentary professionals to stay informed of industry news is to subscribe to documentary and nonfiction film publications. There are many publications, including trade journals, newsletters and books, on non-fiction film. Rather than inundate yourself by subscribing to them all, you may want to pick and choose the ones that best meet your business's needs.

There is a huge selection of documentary filmmaking publications to choose from. The trick is to get the most information out of the fewest resources, thus saving you money and keeping you well informed without consuming all your valuable time. When choosing documentary journals, books or magazines, remember the following:

1. Some documentary trade magazines or journals offer free trial subscriptions so you can better determine whether the publication is for you.

2. When subscribing to documentary film industry trade magazines, find out what period your payment covers. Make sure you receive any back issues within the time period you're paying for. Some publications may just begin subscription with the current issue.

3. Order your documentary and non-fiction film journal or magazine directly from the publication’s website, or you may miss out on subscription perks.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Subscribe to a documentary film magazine and take advantage of the perks

Many publishers offer discounted pricing with subscriptions, in addition to other perks. Check to see if they offer free trial subscriptions or copies. You may even be able to cancel your subscription without payment or penalty if you are not absolutely satisfied.

I recommend: Realscreen gives you the opportunity to sign up for a free enewsletter, while Bright Lights Film Journal offers a mailing list registration so you will be informed of new issue postings.

Take advantage of online blogs on documentaries and non-fiction film

Blogs have evolved for the better. Though some may be politically and socially oriented, but there are many benefits to taking advantage of the information they provide. Not only are they readily available, the medium also allows publishers to compliment articles with multimedia resources for review.

I recommend: Best Documentaries and Watch Documentaries are both industry blogs that provide up-to-date industry news and reviews; as well as an archive of favorite documentaries.

Join a professional association for free access to documentary and nonfiction film magazines

If you're a documentary and non-fiction film professional, you may consider becoming a member of an association for industry professionals. As a member, you'll receive access to free publications such as documentary magazines, as well as other informational resources. If you sign up as a business, you can extend these services to your employees as well.

I recommend: MediaRights features a publications section. The International Documentary Association is also an industry association that offers IDA's members bi-monthly newsletter and eBlasts, as well as Documentary Magazine.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Check with your local library for documentary film publications publications, as many subscribe to online databases that may include journals, magazines and books.