When do 'textbook' ethics and methods take a backseat in doc filmmaking?

Hey everyone, I'm Elena, a working producer, and I've been grappling with something. The more I dive into documentary theory, the more I see these ideals pushed: pure observational filmmaking à la Wiseman, and this idea of 'ongoing ethical consent' throughout the entire production. And I totally get the value in both, they lead to incredibly impactful, authentic cinema.

But in the real world, on actual shoots with budgets and deadlines, when do you find yourselves having to compromise these 'textbook' approaches? I'm working on a project right now where we're documenting a niche community, and while we started with full consent and a pure observational approach, there have been moments where securing that 'ongoing, every single interaction' consent or maintaining absolute non-intervention feels... impossible, without losing key, authentic moments. We've tried a few strategies, from pre-interview waivers to having a dedicated ethics lead, but the fluidity of life means things slip.

So, genuinely, from experience, when are these ideals just not practical to uphold 100%?