This section contains answers to some of the most frequently asked questions in this department. Please browse this page first if you have any questions on any section.
Q: What subjects and ideas fall under the documentaries department?
A: We tend to focus on contemporary subjects, whether handled observationally, through past-tense storytelling, formats, or docu-drama. The very nature of the programmes we commission means that we are reluctant to be overly prescriptive on subject matter or approach. For more details on the output and requirements of individual editors please refer back to the department overview. We are not looking for science, history or arts ideas (except in the areas of health, medicine, human interest and extreme human science i.e Bodyshock, which Simon Dickson commissions).
A: We tend to focus on contemporary subjects, whether handled observationally, through past-tense storytelling, formats, or docu-drama. The very nature of the programmes we commission means that we are reluctant to be overly prescriptive on subject matter or approach. For more details on the output and requirements of individual editors please refer back to the department overview. We are not looking for science, history or arts ideas (except in the areas of health, medicine, human interest and extreme human science i.e Bodyshock, which Simon Dickson commissions).
Q: How long should a proposal be and how should I send it?
A: A paragraph outlining your idea and approach is enough in the first instance. You can submit your idea to us via the online proposal system which you can access through this website. Please do not ring to see if your idea has arrived. If you have not heard from us within two weeks, feel free to contact us at that stage.
A: A paragraph outlining your idea and approach is enough in the first instance. You can submit your idea to us via the online proposal system which you can access through this website. Please do not ring to see if your idea has arrived. If you have not heard from us within two weeks, feel free to contact us at that stage.
Q: Should I send tapes?
A: We’re happy to have a look at a short tape if you feel it is the best way of communicating the strength of a character or situation; but please note that tapes take longer to be dealt with so it’s often better to send a short written proposal in the first instance.
A: We’re happy to have a look at a short tape if you feel it is the best way of communicating the strength of a character or situation; but please note that tapes take longer to be dealt with so it’s often better to send a short written proposal in the first instance.
Q: How long does it take to get a response?
A: We do try to respond to proposals within two weeks, and certainly within the 4 week deadline. If we are interested in your idea we will either ask for more information or for you to come in for a meeting.
A: We do try to respond to proposals within two weeks, and certainly within the 4 week deadline. If we are interested in your idea we will either ask for more information or for you to come in for a meeting.
Q: Can producers speak to a Commissioning Editor or come in for a chat about ideas?
A: Unfortunately the pressure placed on the Commissioning Editors' time by programmes that are already in production means that they do not have time for general chats. However, the assistants work very closely with the Commissioning Editors and can answer most of the questions you may have so they should be your first point of contact. Meetings with the Commissioning Editors will be arranged only once there is something concrete to discuss, so send your ideas in first.
A: Unfortunately the pressure placed on the Commissioning Editors' time by programmes that are already in production means that they do not have time for general chats. However, the assistants work very closely with the Commissioning Editors and can answer most of the questions you may have so they should be your first point of contact. Meetings with the Commissioning Editors will be arranged only once there is something concrete to discuss, so send your ideas in first.
Q: Do you accept ideas from members of the public?
A: Unfortunately, as Channel 4 do not make programmes in-house, we can't accept programme proposals unless they come via a television production company or freelance producer/director.
A: Unfortunately, as Channel 4 do not make programmes in-house, we can't accept programme proposals unless they come via a television production company or freelance producer/director.
Q: Can you suggest a production company?
A: We work with a large number of companies each with their own unique output. It is therefore best that you find out which company is most suitable for your idea. Most production companies are listed in the PACT directory of Independent Producers, which you should be able to find in your local library or on their website at www.pact.co.uk
A: We work with a large number of companies each with their own unique output. It is therefore best that you find out which company is most suitable for your idea. Most production companies are listed in the PACT directory of Independent Producers, which you should be able to find in your local library or on their website at www.pact.co.uk
Q: Do you lend out filming equipment?
A: Unfortunately, as Channel 4 does not make programmes in-house, we do not have any filming equipment available. If you are an individual undertaking a journey or project you believe could be television please approach a production company, not the channel directly.
A: Unfortunately, as Channel 4 does not make programmes in-house, we do not have any filming equipment available. If you are an individual undertaking a journey or project you believe could be television please approach a production company, not the channel directly.
Q: Do you work with new companies?
A: Yes! We are always keen to find new companies to work with. Your company does not need to have worked with Channel 4 before to approach us with an idea or to win a commission.
A: Yes! We are always keen to find new companies to work with. Your company does not need to have worked with Channel 4 before to approach us with an idea or to win a commission.
Q: Who chooses the director?
A: Finding the right director for the right project may need discussion between Channel 4 and the production company. We would expect ideas for directors to come from you as we are always looking to expand the range of directors we work with. You may need to be flexible over key staff such as the Executive Producer, particularly on a series, to balance our need for confidence and trust with our desire to work with new people.
A: Finding the right director for the right project may need discussion between Channel 4 and the production company. We would expect ideas for directors to come from you as we are always looking to expand the range of directors we work with. You may need to be flexible over key staff such as the Executive Producer, particularly on a series, to balance our need for confidence and trust with our desire to work with new people.
Q: Do you work with first time directors/producers?
A: We have a number of new talent initiatives running in the department including 3 Minute Wonder, The Other Side and 4Docs. More information about these strands is available in the New Talent section.
A: We have a number of new talent initiatives running in the department including 3 Minute Wonder, The Other Side and 4Docs. More information about these strands is available in the New Talent section.
Q: How do I submit ideas for More4?
A: Ideas are pitched to Channel 4 Commissioning Editors directly through the online submission system on this website. If the Commissioner likes the idea he will then pass it through to the More4 Commissioning Team to discuss. Once a decision has been made the Channel 4 commissioner will be in touch. Please flag up your proposal as one intended for More4 at the top of your submission.
A: Ideas are pitched to Channel 4 Commissioning Editors directly through the online submission system on this website. If the Commissioner likes the idea he will then pass it through to the More4 Commissioning Team to discuss. Once a decision has been made the Channel 4 commissioner will be in touch. Please flag up your proposal as one intended for More4 at the top of your submission.
Q: Should proposals be sent to Angus MacQueen, or directly to the commissioning editor?
A: Ideas and proposals should be submitted online directly to the commissioning editor who you have in mind to pitch to. Please do not send these to Angus as well, but think which commissioning editor would this territory, character or idea appeal most to. Please refer to Simon, Meredith and Kate's individual remits to find out what they are looking for.
A: Ideas and proposals should be submitted online directly to the commissioning editor who you have in mind to pitch to. Please do not send these to Angus as well, but think which commissioning editor would this territory, character or idea appeal most to. Please refer to Simon, Meredith and Kate's individual remits to find out what they are looking for.
| « Prev |
