My research began by analyzing existing health-focused documentaries and burnout-themed content. I drew inspiration from Netflix’s “Explained” series for its blend of storytelling and statistical grounding, and from BBC’s “Mind Over Marathon,” which emotionally involves the audience through personal transformation stories.
I found that typical documentary conventions include on-location shooting, voice-over narration, real interviews, and a narrative arc centered on struggle and resolution. I followed these conventions—especially the use of expert (or experiential) interview, and the inclusion of contextual statistics to lend credibility. However, I also challenged some norms. For instance, unlike conventional health documentaries which often feature third-party experts, I used a mother-son dynamic to explore the issue. This broke the formality, making the content more relatable and emotionally impactful.
In terms of visual conventions, I chose not to use dramatic music or hyper-edited sequences. Instead, I prioritized authenticity over spectacle. My research suggested that burnout is under-discussed in Eastern European media, particularly from a young person’s perspective. That gap inspired me to reframe the documentary format to tell a deeply personal story, thereby pushing the boundaries of conventional documentary voice and structure.
Research also shaped my minor tasks. I looked at how social media is used by mental health advocates, noticing trends in minimalist design, warm color palettes, and bite-sized educational content. Similarly, for the magazine article, I analyzed health features in “Psychologies” and “Elle Romania,” which helped me structure the narrative and tone appropriately.
Ultimately, my research enabled me to balance respect for conventions with meaningful innovation, ensuring the final campaign was both credible and creatively original.
