Which Research Option is Best for Your Historical Film or Novel?
Done-For-You vs. Done-With-You
Option 1: Done-For-You
As a writer or screenwriter, you’re thinking about getting help when it comes to researching your topic. Have you decided that a full-service solution, where everything is handled, is what’s needed? Here’s a few thoughts to help you decide.
Is saving time a priority by having all research and presentations taken care of?
Would having curated research, where the best materials are selected from hundreds, be valuable for your project?
Do you require assistance organising interviews or gaining access to eyewitnesses and key resources?
Would a streamlined process that avoids overwhelming amounts of information be the ideal solution for you?
Does receiving essential historical insights, carefully structured in easy-to-digest formats, sound appealing? Could a screencast or podcast walkthrough of key documents and materials be helpful to visualise or listen to?
Is focusing on the creative aspects of your project while someone else manages the research and logistics what you’re looking for?
Option 2: Done-With-You
Do you prefer to be involved in the research process but would appreciate expert guidance?
Would a tailored reading list, highlighting the most relevant chapters, help streamline your research?
Are you interested in conducting interviews yourself, with assistance in locating the right experts and sources?
Does taking the lead on research trips, with recommended and pre-vetted archives, align with your working style?
Could ensuring progress is on track, with guidance to avoid unnecessary details, make your project more efficient?
Would working at your own pace, while still benefiting from professional input, suit your schedule and approach?
How to Choose
Is a tight timeline a factor—requiring results without the time-consuming research process?
Does the project budget play a significant role in deciding between a full-service option or a more hands-on approach?
Are you drawn to the—often time-consuming—discovery process, or would you rather delegate the legwork?
If you’re really honest: How much time do you have to fully immerse yourself in the historical research for your project?
Here in this Substack publication, I share insights from my work as a historical consultant for books and films. This is a behind-the-scenes look at what I wish my research clients knew before we started working together.
Here’s to turning research into remarkable stories,
~ Barbara
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