Directors UK is delighted to launch Become a Self-Shooting PD.
Designed to address key skills gaps, the training is funded by ScreenSkills’ Unscripted TV Skills Fund and will be delivered in partnership with DV Talent and The Story Consultant.
Become A Self-Shooting PD is a UK-wide, comprehensive training course designed to address skill shortages in Unscripted television. Successful applicants will receive a full course of face-to-face technical training on all aspects of the self-shooting PDs role, and an all-important chance to put these new skills into practice – alongside other masterclasses including commentary, interview techniques and a chance to network with talent managers.
What is a Self-Shooting PD?
Self-shooting directors are responsible for visualising, shaping and filming a project’s creative content and editorial narrative, and directing the editing into a cohesive final product.
Become A Self-Shooting PD – About the course
Become A Self-Shooting PD will take place over three non-consecutive weekends, with dates varying depending on which region you are applying to – you can find out more about the course dates below.
The first weekend will focus on technical training and exercises, including building the camera, focus, exposure, settings, lighting, sound, and building sequences.
The second will revolve around shooting for the edit. This will include framing, essential shots, story-telling/mapping and shot progression, as well as interview techniques and important contingencies.
The last weekend will put all the theory into practice in a real-life exercise.
Following the course, the attendees cuts will be reviewed by a professional and receive expert advice and feedback on what they’ve produced.
There will also be three additional two hour workshops held whilst the course is running — on health and safety compliance, use of commentary, and interview techniques — as well as a final masterclass providing a chance to network, chat with talent managers, guest speakers, and more.
How can I apply?
Applications are handled by DV Talent.
The fee for attending Become A Self-Shooting PD is £250 plus VAT.
This course has been heavily subsidised by ScreenSkills and the Unscripted TV Skills Fund. A small number of bursaries are also available to help towards the course fee and will be assessed on a case-by-case basis. These bursaries are primarily to support people from groups that are under-represented in Unscripted TV, or those with additional costs (eg. caring or travel). Please indicate on your application form if you would like to be considered for a bursary.
Applications are open to members of Directors UK and non-members passionate about pursuing a career as a self-shooting PD. The eligibility criterion are flexible to allow for those who may be returning to the industry or who may have little shooting experience. We would expect to see between 3-5 years experience in the industry, and you’re looking to step up a grade or widen your skillset, but you do not need a broadcast shooting credit to apply.
The deadline for applications varies depending on whichever region you are applying to. See below for further information.
Applications will be reviewed by a panel from Directors UK and DV Talent. There will be 9 places available on the course in each location.
Applications are particularly welcome from directors living and working in the nations and regions, and from underrepresented groups, including those from lower socio-economic backgrounds, to ensure we are representative of all.
Course Dates
London – April and May 2022 – (DEADLINE PASSED)
Bristol – June and July 2022 - (DEADLINE PASSED)
Belfast – August and September 2022 - (DEADLINE PASSED)
Manchester – September and October 2022 - (DEADLINE PASSED)
Glasgow – November and December 2022 - (DEADLINE PASSED)
Birmingham — 14/15 Jan 2023 + 28/29 Jan 2023 + 11/12 Feb 2023 - (DEADLINE PASSED)
