credits

[Lithos]

i'm working of the credits of a film and wondering,
what is the best way to credit the interviewees/participants in a short doc?
all I can think of is to say
"with ..."
but then if you put it right after cinematography for ex. it sounds like they are part of that.
is there some standard phrasing to use in the credits with the participants names?

 

[valdez]

I don't think there is any standard, like with other doc "rules" as long as you are respectful.
I've always done something like: Special thanks to:
or you could say like: the filmmakers would like to thank the following individuals for thier support and cooperation.
or : this film would not have been possible without the support and cooperation from the following
if you want, also, you can simply list the names first as soon as credits roll and it makes it obvious what it is and that it's them, assuming you ever said some of the names in the film itself. That avoids the dillemma altogether. Then when that part is done, begin with the Director, camera, etc. It's like listing the leads in a fiction film right after picture ends, you know who it's talking about they don't need clarification and it's a flattering way to mention them.
something along those lines is fine I think, it's really up to you though. Remember it true that the film isn't possible without them and in a sense they are contributing to the filmmaking itself as willing participants so they deserve thanks and/or top billing.
I think it's nice to list people who may have been seen ALSO in some technical role as well, if they ever helped, they love to see that and no one else will really notice, besides that you have lots of credits which looks good.