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Artist Programs

IDA directly supports documentary makers by providing services, educational programming, and opportunities for building community.


Getting Real

Getting Real is a biennial gathering of filmmakers and industry professionals. It provides a much-needed space for the field to hold constructive conversations, build lasting relationships, and tackle ethical, sustainability, creative, production and distribution challenges facing our growing community.

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IDA Documentary Awards

Since 1984, the Awards have recognized a diverse range of emerging and established filmmakers, and expanded to include recognition of artistic direction, audio documentaries, documentary journalism and music documentaries, as well as individual honors such as the Courage Under Fire Award and Career Achievement Award.

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Educational Seminars

Our year-round series of seminars, panels and workshops focusing on the art, craft and business of documentary filmmaking. Become an IDA member to access previous seminars online.

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DocuClub

A work-in-progress screening series offering the public and members of the documentary film community advance access to new projects, and the opportunity to provide feedback and participate in intimate behind-the-scenes conversations with filmmakers and creators.

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Field Research

In addition to our year-round programming, IDA spearheads research that leads to a better understanding of the problems facing the field and solutions in fortifying the documentary ecosystem.

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Traveling Initiatives

IDA travels its programming to different festivals and field gatherings to reach documentary filmmakers around the world.

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