What is it like being on a documentary squad?
1. It can be extremely humbling.
The doc squad can tear down issues of pride in your life. Every flaw you have will be exposed to an audience who has never met you as well as the brand new people on you have met to spend 11 months with.
2. You pray for Gods grace a LOT more.
Your words and actions carry more weight and your choices will have a longer and stronger effect on your future. With the documentary you are much more aware of communication and the way you choose to use it. This could be intimidating or a growth point.
3. You will reflect on your past a lot more than you ever thought you could.
Your testimony and struggles become important to portraying the over all atmosphere of the film. You end up telling your story and confessing your sins to anyone who watches. Giving the things you have been bound to less and less power. It can be liberating. It can kill your secrets before you secrets get you down.
4. There are a lot more responsibilities.
If you’re a field producer you have signed up for a full time job and the world race. It’s a high calling and takes a lot of work. But those who do it get to experience the world race from a very interesting perspective. It can be really rewarding and I believe God blesses them.
5. You will cry, throw up, say stupid things, roll your eyes at people on film, and get tired of the camera.
There is no hiding and this can be hard sometimes. It can be hard to have an emotional moment with a device capturing the ugly cry faces. But, you do get use to it. Fears of self image can arise for some and for others they drop the fear all together. Either way growth happens.
6. Fears of backstabbing.
This one is real. You might wonder what people say on their video diaries. How those words might effect future relationships with ministries and people. But, it puts you in a place where you begin to lean on God so hardcore to lead your life in blessings. Lies from the enemy and God become super distinguishable. Making you seek hope and the goodness of God. Forcing you to acknowledge the very nature of God.
7. You learn that your image is beautiful on good days and bad days.
It’s actually really cool to have someone filming when you haven’t showered but once in Nepal. Because it reminds you that it’s your heart and your love for God that makes you beautiful.
8. There will be redeeming conversations that won’t be captured on film.
You might have a month were you and a teammate had issues and all that was captured was the struggle. Always remember, redemption happens and life continues to be redeemed as you walk with Christ. What was captured was what God intended to be captured. Praise God for redemption on and off camera.
9. You won’t remember what you said month one.
Don’t sweat it. You’re on a crazy journey. Nobody is expected to be the same person.
10. You will be glad the funny moments are on film.
11. Words of advice; don’t be afraid to be just how God made you.
Play music, make art, do what makes you happy.
