Peer to peer filming

What is this method?

Why use this method?

• ✓ Makes research fun and engaging

• ✓ Gives young people control

• ✓ Creates authentic conversations

• ✓ Shows rather than just tells

• ✓ Captures real experiences

• ✓ Develops confidence

• ✓ Builds research skills

• ✓ Creates lasting evidence

When to use it

• School/college experiences

• Service accessibility

• Building usage

• Technology use

• Transport experiences

• Activity participation

• Social spaces

• Support needs

• Physical access

• Environmental issues

Running a session

What you'll need

Essential equipment

• Recording devices (iPads, tablets)

• Chargers

• Storage device/cloud access

• Backup equipment

• Test footage space

Support materials

• Consent forms

• Information sheets

• Storyboard templates

• Question prompts

• Privacy notices

• Release forms

Session structure

1. Preparation (30 minutes)

• Check equipment works

• Clear storage space

• Test sound quality

• Prepare quiet filming spaces

• Set up viewing equipment

• Ensure accessibility needs met

2. Introduction (20 minutes)

• Explain researcher role

• Demonstrate equipment

• Practice filming

• Discuss consent

• Set ground rules

• Agree sharing permissions

3. Filming activity (45-60 minutes)

Step 1: Planning

• Form small groups (2-3)

• Choose topics

• Plan questions

• Practice interviews

• Find locations

Step 2: Filming

• Take turns filming

• Interview each other

• Show important things

• Capture environment

• Document experiences

Step 3: Review

• Watch footage together

• Identify themes

• Share insights

• Discuss findings

• Plan next steps

Making it accessible

Equipment adaptations

• Stabilizing mounts

• Extended grips

• Touch screen aids

• Voice control

• Alternative switches

• Tripods/stands

Support options

• Filming buddies

• Staff assistance

• Technical help

• Communication aids

• Visual guides

• Step-by-step cards

Practical tips

Filming guidance

• Keep shots steady

• Check lighting

• Test sound levels

• Frame shots well

• Allow pauses

• Keep clips short

Interview tips

• Ask open questions

• Listen carefully

• Show interest

• Follow up points

• Allow thinking time

• Stay on topic

Safety and ethics

Consent requirements

• Written permission

• Image rights

• Data protection

• Sharing agreements

• Usage rights

• Withdrawal options

Privacy considerations

• Safe locations

• Personal information

• Background content

• Accidental filming

• Storage security

• Sharing boundaries

Using the content

During session

• Group viewing (if agreed)

• Theme identification

• Key message notes

• Action points

• Follow up needs

• Celebration

After session

• Secure storage

• Agreed sharing

• Create summaries

• Edit compilations

• Feed into planning

• Share impact

Success tips

1. Test equipment first

2. Keep groups small

3. Allow practice time

4. Follow interests

5. Respect privacy

6. Celebrate results

7. Share findings

8. Show impact

Common challenges

Technical issues

• Battery failureSolution: Bring chargers/spares

• Storage fullSolution: Check space beforehand

• Sound problemsSolution: Test audio first

Participant concerns

• Camera shySolution: Offer behind camera roles

• Technical worriesSolution: Provide simple guides

• Sharing anxietySolution: Clear agreements

Extension activities

Creating compilations

• Select key clips

• Add titles

• Include themes

• Show diversity

• Maintain flow

• Keep short

Sharing options

• Group presentations

• Service reviews

• Training materials

• Youth voice evidence

• Development planning

• Impact reporting

Contact us

Additional resources

• Equipment guides

• Consent templates

• Planning sheets

• Technical tips

• Safety guidance

• Editing basics