Documentary Video Production
Real human stories create lasting impact.
As the top documentary video production company in Sydney and Melbourne, Story Machine produces authentic, story-driven films that connect audiences with people, purpose and ideas.
Our documentary video production services span branded documentaries, corporate storytelling and short-form films, helping organisations communicate complex narratives through compelling, human-centred storytelling.
Documentary Video Examples
Scout – ‘Driven by Community Series’: Chris Norwood
Scout – ‘Driven by Community Series’: Chris Norwood
- Pre Production
- Location Scout
- Production
- Post Production
- Editing
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Scout – ‘Driven by Community Series’: Chris Norwood
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Google Ads – ‘Dogue’ – Case Study Video
Google Ads – ‘Dogue’ – Case Study Video
Overview
Story Machine partnered with Google’s US agency to produce a Sydney-based case study video highlighting Dogue’s success with Google Ads. The film demonstrates how strategic digital advertising drove measurable business growth.
The Challenge
The project required adapting an international client concept for local production, while ensuring the story remained authentic, results-driven and brand-aligned.
Our Approach
We refined the creative framework for a Sydney shoot, developing a clear narrative structure that showcased Dogue’s experience and outcomes through polished, professional storytelling.
What We Delivered
- Client Concept Adaptation
- Shot List Development
- Script Writing
- Location Scouting
- Video Production
- Video Editing
- Network Delivery
The Outcome
A professional case study video tailored for digital and corporate use, reinforcing Story Machine’s expertise in corporate video production in Sydney.
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Google Ads – ‘Dogue’ – Case Study Video
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Delicious DPA Australia – Branded Content
Delicious DPA Australia – Branded Content
Seeing an opportunity to create better video content, Story Machine approached Delicious with a concept that ultimately transformed their hallmark event, the Delicious Produce Awards. For years, the event focused on celebrity chefs judging produce rather than highlighting the producers, who are the true heroes. Inspired by Chef’s Table, Story Machine took viewers to the producers, leveraging celebrity chefs and telling an authentic paddock-to-plate story. Directed by Arthur Chan, this project showcases our expertise in video production in Sydney. Contact us to create high-impact video content for your brand.
- Concept development
- Narrative planning
- Interview questions
- Dialogue direction
- Logistics & Scheduling
- Location Scouting
- Video Production
- Video editing
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Delicious DPA Australia – Branded Content
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Afterpay – Case Study – Dazey LA
Afterpay – Case Study – Dazey LA
Story Machine produced a series of insightful case study videos for Afterpay, featuring Dazey LA, an innovative online fashion retailer based in Los Angeles. We developed three videos: a journey video narrating the retailer’s story, a case study video highlighting the successes achieved with Afterpay, and a testimonial video endorsing Afterpay. This project demonstrates our expertise in video production in Sydney. Contact us to create high-impact video content for your brand.
- Concept development
- Creative direction
- Preliminary interviews
- Paper script writing
- Logistics & Scheduling
- Location Scouting
- Video Production
- Video editing
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Afterpay – Case Study – Dazey LA
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Afterpay Bailey Nelson – ‘Case Study’
Afterpay Bailey Nelson – ‘Case Study’
Story Machine produced this case study video for Afterpay, exploring how Bailey Nelson integrated Afterpay’s payment solutions to help grow their business. Directed by Turei Cooze, this video highlights our expertise in video production in Sydney. Contact us to create high-impact video content for your brand.
- Concept Development
- Paper Script
- Shot List
- Location Scouting
- Casting
- Video Production
- Video editing
- Motion Graphics
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Afterpay Bailey Nelson – ‘Case Study’
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Scout Motors: ‘Forging the Future’ – Exterior Philosophy
Scout Motors: ‘Forging the Future’ – Exterior Philosophy
Story Machine was brought on in the early development stages of the Scout Motors Group to document the evolution of their vehicles from concept to debut production vehicles. As a production partner, we worked with Scout created valuable assets to help tell their unique brand story.
- Production
- Behind-The-Scenes
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Scout Motors: ‘Forging the Future’ – Exterior Philosophy
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
RED6 – ‘Augmented Reality’
RED6 – ‘Augmented Reality’
Story Machine crafted a hero launch campaign, built a custom website and content pool for augmented reality startup RED6AR to drive their Series A round and beyond. The challenge was to create a vision for their technology, which at the time, didn’t exist. We utilised 3D simulations combined with real-world aerobatic footage to create a sequence of different use cases for their technology.
- Pre Production
- Location Scout
- Shot List
- Production
- Post Production
- Visual Effects
- 3D Rendering
- Website
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
RED6 – ‘Augmented Reality’
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Scout Motors – ‘California Road Trip’
Scout Motors – ‘California Road Trip’
Our brief was to create a bank of stock material for Scout over a two-day period whilst roadtripping through Joshua Tree and Big Bear. We provided over 150 images and 20 minutes of reel-wrothy video for the brand to utilise in their future ads and campaigns. From those assets we went outside the brief to craft this ‘spec’ spot, creating a narrative that felt true to the brand and capturing the essence of the adventure that Scout brings.
- Pre ProductionConcept
- Casting
- Location Scout
- Production
- Post Production
- Editing
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Scout Motors – ‘California Road Trip’
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Scout – ‘Driven by Community Series’: Chris Hunt
Scout – ‘Driven by Community Series’: Chris Hunt
- Pre ProductionConcept
- Location Scout
- Production
- Post Production
- Editing
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Scout – ‘Driven by Community Series’: Chris Hunt
YSL Gift Gold - Brand Ad
Afterpay Bailey Nelson
TMGM Max Launch Video - BTS
Trusted by the best.
Why choose Story Machine for your documentary video production?
Clients partner with Story Machine for our ability to uncover meaningful stories and translate them into engaging films. We combine cinematic production quality with thoughtful storytelling, ensuring every documentary feels authentic while aligning with strategic communication goals.
Streamlined documentary video production process
Our documentary process begins with research and story development to identify the strongest narrative direction. We then move into careful pre-production planning, interview preparation and logistics. During filming, our team captures natural moments through unobtrusive direction and cinematic visuals. In post-production, we shape interviews, archive footage and b-roll into a cohesive narrative supported by sound design and colour grading. This structured approach ensures documentaries that are both emotionally engaging and professionally crafted.
Concept
Video treatment
Ideation
Brief review
Assign Director
Director drafts treatment
Concept Approval
Cost Approval
Get Started
Pre-Production
Script & shot list
Storyboarding
Casting
Animatic editing
Location scout
Logistics and scheduling
Shoot
Production
1x full day shoot
Camera & Lighting package
Crew
Cast
Catering
Production Management
Deliver
Post-Production
Editing
Revision process
Audio mastering
Music licencing
Colour grading
Delivery to specifications
Experts in every category.
Ready to bring your documentary to life?
Work with Story Machine to transform real stories into compelling documentary films. From early concept development through to final delivery, we create documentaries that inform, inspire and build genuine audience connection. Get in touch to discuss your documentary project.
FAQs
What types of documentaries do we produce?
We create short and long-form documentaries for brands, broadcasters and organisations. From human-interest stories to behind-the-scenes features and branded documentaries, our focus is on authentic storytelling that builds emotional connection and trust.
How do we ensure authenticity in every story?
We take time to understand the people and purpose behind each story. Through thoughtful interviews, natural cinematography and unobtrusive direction, we capture real moments that feel genuine and relatable.
What’s our documentary production process?
Our process covers every stage, from research and story development to filming, editing and delivery. We collaborate closely with you to refine the narrative, plan logistics, and craft a polished film that reflects your vision.
Can Story Machine help with branded documentaries?
Yes. We specialise in documentaries that balance brand messaging with powerful human stories. Our team ensures your brand’s purpose is woven naturally into the narrative, creating an engaging and authentic piece of content.
How long does it take to produce a documentary?
Timelines vary based on the length, number of filming days and complexity of the story. Short documentaries can be completed within weeks, while longer pieces may take several months. We’ll outline a clear schedule after reviewing your brief.
Do you handle scripting, interviews and locations?
Absolutely. We manage everything from developing interview questions and story outlines to selecting locations and handling logistics. Our experienced crew ensures every detail contributes to the story’s emotional impact.
Can you work with existing footage or archives?
Yes. We can integrate your existing material, interviews, b-roll or archival footage, into a new documentary, ensuring a cohesive story and consistent visual tone.
How do I get started with Story Machine?
Simply complete the Get a Quote form on our website. A producer will get in touch to discuss your objectives, target audience and creative direction, then outline next steps.