Looking to pitch your documentary film project but not sure where to start? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. In this industry roundup, we’ve gathered five of the best places (and resources) to pitch your project and get it seen by the right people.
Starting out in the film and video industry can be daunting, but don’t let that stop you. We spoke to a documentary producer who reminded us that everyone is just figuring it out as they go along. All you need is the right knowledge and connections to get your project off the ground.
So where should you start? Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) is a great first option for up-and-coming documentarians. They champion independent filmmakers and are always on the lookout for new content. Cable television networks like the History Channel and National Geographic are also great resources for full-time documentary filmmakers.
Premium cable networks like HBO and Showtime are often the gold standard for documentary producers. They’re always on the lookout for new ideas and finished projects to add to their broadcast and streaming libraries. And let’s not forget the major online streaming services like Netflix, Amazon, and Hulu. They’re constantly fighting for the best new content, so if you have a great idea or project, they’re definitely worth pitching to.
If you’re into shooting documentary content that’s more online-friendly, digital news outlets like Vice are a great place to start. They’ve been pushing online documentary content for years and are always looking for new talent.
Don’t let the divide between personal documentary projects and what you see on TV and the big screen discourage you. With the right knowledge and connections, you can get your project seen by the right people. Check out some of our other articles for more documentary filmmaking advice and insights.