Best Monetization Options for Homemade Documentaries

I'm thinking of starting a documentary series - something I've always wanted to do. I just need some help for the best monetization options?

For instance, I will be starting a Facebook, YouTube and a website dedicated to sharing my high-quality documentaries about local issues.

I understand you need to hit certain thresholds before you can monetize on YouTube and Facebook, but what would be a better option, i.e. higher CPM?

Here's my idea:

- I create the documentaries (they will take months to make)
- I share it on YouTube and my website with an article
- I share short clips on Facebook to help funnel some traffic to my website/YouTube
- Eventually monetize my channels to earn some $$$

I know it's a dream, we all have them! Just need someone with experience (NOT with ChatGPT) to help point me in the right direction. Thanks!

create your own product and add a subscription form to your website through which you incentivize people to subscribe for stuff that's exclusive to them, or for 10-25% discount if they buy your product,

The product can be anything: an ebook, a physical book, a video course, exclusive documentaries, etc

Invest some time to learn about your target market(s) first if you want to monetize your work.

You may produce the highest quality of content but if there is no market / no interest it will remain nothing but a hobby.

I do have two websites with lots of content, images, incoming links from Wikipedia as further reading but if the majority of people likes to watch 20 seconds videos of their pop idols or pure naked skin in action, there is little traffic and very low RPM.

Your plan sounds solid! Focus on building a strong audience first, then go for monetization options like YouTube ads, website sponsorships, or even crowdfunding for dedicated viewers who want to support your passion for documentaries. Keep chasing your dream