Writing The Documentary Proposal (on Zoom)

Writing The Documentary Proposal (on Zoom)

Transform your documentary idea into a reality by learning how to craft a compelling proposal.

By Docs In Progress

Date and time

Tuesday, June 10 · 4 - 5:30pm PDT

Location

Online

Refund Policy

Refunds up to 30 days before event

About this event

  • Event lasts 1 hour 30 minutes

Tuesday, June 10, 2025 | 7:00 - 8:30pm on Zoom

COURSE DESCRIPTION:

Your written proposal is your first chance to grab the attention of a funder or commissioning editor—so it needs to stand out. In this session, you’ll learn what makes a strong proposal, see real examples, and start writing key elements for your own project.

We’ll also cover other critical written documents in documentary filmmaking, like the pitch deck and the editing script. These aren’t part of the proposal document but are essential for shaping your film and staying in control during development and production.


Over the next two Tuesdays, we’ll continue strengthening your documentary writing skills. On June 17 (in person), we’ll work on crafting a compelling treatment, and on June 24 (virtual), we’ll unpack effective grant writing techniques.

Visit our website to register for these upcoming workshops: docsinprogress.org


TEACHING ARTIST: Adele Schmidt

Adele Schmidt is a co-founder and Artistic Director at Docs In Progress, an ward winning documentary filmmaker known for her music documentary series on progressive rock, which includes the Krautrock trilogy. With over 20 years of experience in production and direction, Adele Schmidt also has a vast teaching background. She is a Professorial Lecturer at American University, where she teaches Film and Video Production and Developing Non-Fiction Productions. In recognition of her contributions to arts education, she was recently included in the Maryland State Arts Council Teaching Artist Roster.

What's the refund policy? If your circumstances change and you must withdraw from a class after registering, please be aware of our refund policy:

Withdrawal 20 or more calendar days before the first day of a program: 75% refund

Withdrawal 11-19 calendar days before the first day of a program: 50% refund

Withdrawal 10 or fewer calendar days before a program: No refund

In case of refund requests, the registrant will incur all Eventbrite fees.

Teaching Artists: Adele Schmidt

Organized by

Docs In Progress is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which gives individuals the tools to tell stories through documentary film to educate, inspire, and transform the way people view their world. We program screenings and filmmaking educational programs.

$35