Obtaining Audio and Visual Materials Using the Freedom of Information Act

Police body cam footage, military training videos, surveillance recordings from government buildings - these are just a few examples of the types of audio/visual material that can be obtained via public records requests and incorporated into your documentary films and video journalism. In this workshop, we’ll talk about what sorts of materials you might be able to find and offer helpful tips on how to navigate the notoriously complex process.
This workshop, featuring Lauren Feeney, Director of Video Production for The Intercept and Gunita Singh, a staff attorney for the Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press shares some tips, techniques and resources for obtaining these vital materials from government agencies. It took place at the Double Exposure Investigative Film Festival and Symposium 2022 Edition in Washington, DC.