NFTS Scotland: How to Pitch a Documentary Online

Delivered in the NFTS Scotland Virtual Classroom, accessed via Zoom.  

There are many theories about what works in a pitch, and what doesn’t. And just as many exceptions that don’t prove the rules. This makes selling documentary ideas seem like a dark art - and something many people try to avoid.  But in any pitch there are simple principles at work and this one day course will give you a good grasp of what they are.  You’ll also be guided through how to make them work for you.

How to prepare - what do you need for a successful pitch? What actually happens in the room - how can you communicate your ideas effectively? And what should you do afterwards? With practise you’ll learn that, far from being an intimidating experience, pitching can be fun and a great way to start any creative process.

This intensive, practical course covers:

• The key elements of a pitch
• What’s really going on in the pitch process
• Preparing your pitch
• Delivering it effectively
• When to follow-up and when to try elsewhere

The course is led by Peter Dale, who produced and directed documentaries for the BBC, was Head of Documentaries at Channel 4, and conceived and launched More4, Channel 4’s third digital channel. He also ran his own independent production company for 10 years. He’s now the Head of Documentary at the NFTS. 

The course is aimed at producers at entry and junior levels including Researchers, Development Producers, Edit Producers, Producer/Directors, Assistant Producers, and anyone who wants to know more about pitching ideas for documentaries.