Frequently Asked Questions about the Docs In Progress Workshops

What is Docs In Progress?

Can anyone attend?

How do you find the films to be screened?

What kind of films are you looking for?

How do you decide on the films?

I’m a first-time filmmaker.  Is it worth it for me to submit?

Do you accept submissions only from local filmmakers?

How do I submit a film for consideration?

How do I find out when the next Docs in Progress workshop will take place?

WHAT IS DOCS IN PROGRESS?

Docs In Progress is an organization which was founded in 2004 by Washington-area documentary filmmakers and consultants Adele Schmidt and Erica Ginsberg and now also includes Sam Hampton.  Our programs consist of bi-monthly workshops, filmmaker-to-filmmaker peer pitch sessions, an online newsletter, and private consultations for documentary filmmakers.

For the workshops, we invite at least two independent documentary filmmakers to screen their works in progress to a fresh audience.  Because our workshops focus on documentaries that are  not finished films, the discussion which follows is more of a critique session that a traditional Q&A that you might find at a festival screening.

CAN ANYONE ATTEND THE WORKSHOPS?

Absolutely.  The whole purpose of Docs In Progress is to let the filmmakers show their works in front of as diverse an audience as possible.  Traditionally Docs in Progress attracts a crowd that is  a mix of filmmakers, friends and colleagues of the participating filmmakers, and other people who were simply curious about documentary or interested in the topic of the film(s)  We also do outreach into the filmmaking community, through calendar listings in the Washington Post, City Paper, and various online publications.  Unlike other events which may be geared simply towards those in the filmmaking community, this eclectic mix of  people provides a wider view of participants’ films. Similar to other public events in Washington DC, the audiences tend to be highly intelligent, analytical, articulate, and diplomatic when offering feedback to the filmmakers.  While we welcome those who want to participate by offering feedback, it is not a requirement.  Some people come just because they like to see the films.

HOW DO YOU FIND THE FILMS TO BE SCREENED?

We post calls for submissions regularly on our website, through our announcement list, and through a number of Washington-area film and video listservs and publications.  Additionally we often hear about documentaries in progress through networking events.

WHAT KINDS OF FILMS ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?

We accept submissions of documentaries from an early stage to the close-to-done stage of post-production.  Generally this means rough cuts or significant segments from a film and not trailers, demo reels, or finished films.  We screen both shorts and full length documentaries, but, due to time constraints, may only be able to screen up to 70 minutes of longer films.

We define documentary rather broadly and are open to films which incorporate different styles of filmmaking and storytelling.  Although we may screen documentaries with dramatized, experimental or advocacy elements, we do not screen pure fiction films, mockumentaries, music videos, industrials, or promotional works for hire.

HOW DO YOU DECIDE ON THE FILMS?

We choose films which can benefit the most from an audience critique.  Unlike film festivals which often try to pair similar themed films together, we want to include films which are different  from each other -- both in topic and structural issues.  Unfortunately we cannot workshop every film which is submitted to us.  In some cases, it may be a question of format or length.  In some cases, the film may need a little more work (either on the filmmakers’ own or through a private consultation with us) to get it to a point where a workshop would be helpful.

I’M A FIRST-TIME FILMMAKER.  IS IT WORTH IT FOR ME TO SUBMIT?

You are at no advantage or disadvantage based on your previous filmmaking experience.  Because we care about nurturing independent documentary, we consider films from first-time filmmakers as well as those who have more of a track record.  We have shown works by everyone from film school students to mid-career filmmakers on their second or third film to highly experienced filmmakers whose previous works have been shown theatrically or on television. Regardless of a filmmaker’s level of experience, constructive feedback will always help the filmmaker get to the next stage of postproduction.

DO YOU ACCEPT SUBMISSIONS ONLY FROM LOCAL FILMMAKERS?

We accept submissions from any documentary filmmaker whose works meet the above criteria.  Filmmakers must be able to attend the workshop in person at their own expense.  We do not have the budget  to cover travel expenses for out-of-town filmmakers.

HOW DO I SUBMIT A FILM FOR CONSIDERATION?

Go to our Submissions Page for details.  We will follow up with you with further instructions on how to send a VHS or DVD screener tape.

MY FILM IS NOT QUITE AT THE ROUGH CUT STAGE BUT I CAN STILL USE SOME HELP.

You may be a good candidate for our private consultation services.  Click here for more information,

HOW DO I FIND OUT WHEN THE NEXT DOCS IN PROGRESS WORKSHOP WILL TAKE PLACE?

Docs in Progress is generally held every other month on a weeknight.  To keep informed of upcoming workshops, you can check our website or ask to be added to our announcement list by signing up here.