Step up to shooting AP training programme for unscripted TV

We are delighted to announce the return of the highly popular Step Up to Shooting AP training programme!

This highly practical training programme is aimed at researchers and assistant producers (APs) working in unscripted TV, who want to shoot for broadcast, cross shoot and generally be an asset in the field.

Taught by acclaimed, self-shooting producer/directors and series producers this comprehensive course will teach delegates everything there is to know to shoot with confidence for a wide range of factual TV. At the end of the programme, trainees will have developed, shot and edited their own films / showreels.

The programme will cover setting up and using the popular broadcast camera FS7, making the right lens choices, focus, exposure, framing, shot composition, as well as lighting and sound. The second weekend will put this into action as trainees move into shooting for the edit, building sequences, interview techniques and observational filmmaking. The third weekend will see our trainees shoot their films, which once edited, will be reviewed by our trainers. Please note ideas for this will be required before the programme commences. 

The programme will also teach the professional skills needed to work effectively with contributors and with teams, as well as key compliance, logistical and health and safety considerations. Plus, plenty of tips, tricks, and insights from our expert trainers.

In addition, delegates will have access to exclusive online masterclasses covering everything from career planning and development as an AP to managing mental and physical health.

This programme is supported by the ScreenSkills Unscripted TV Skills Fund which invests in training for the unscripted workforce thanks to contributions from BBC, Channel 4, Sky, A+E Networks UK, Discovery UK, Channel 5, Netflix, ITV, Amazon, UKTV and S4C matched by production companies.  

Who it's for

Researcher, APs or equivalent in unscripted TV who are looking to step up to confident Shooting AP. We have 60 places across the programme – 10 participants on each of the 6 cohorts.

Applications are open for cohorts across the UK for those based in or near Cardiff, London, Belfast, Manchester/Newcastle*, Glasgow, Birmingham.

* Please note, the location for the cohort in Manchester OR Newcastle will be determined by demand.

Each course will involve 3 x weekends of face-to-face training, plus additional online sessions and masterclasses. 

• Cardiff: 6th & 7th January, 20th & 21st January, and 3rd & 4th February 2024
• London: 9th & 10th March, 23rd & 24th March, and 13th & 14th April 2024
• Belfast: 11th & 12th May, 1st & 2nd June, and 15th & 16th June 2024
• Manchester or Newcastle: 13th & 14th July, 27th & 28th July, and 10th & 11th August 2024
• Glasgow: 31st August & 1st September, 14th & 15th September, and 28th & 29th September 2024
• Birmingham: 19th & 20th October, 2nd & 3rd November, and 16th & 17th November 2024 

The course fee for delegates is £350 + VAT (£420 inclusive of VAT) which is payable on acceptance to the course. This course has been heavily subsidised by the ScreenSkills Unscripted TV Skills Fund.

A limited 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 under-represented groups in unscripted TV, or those with additional costs (e.g. caring or travel, returning to work.) Please indicate on your application form if you would like to be considered for a bursary, and tell us a little why you'd like to apply for this. 

We always welcome applications from under-represented groups, including, but not limited to: those from Minority Ethnic Groups; people with a disability; people from the LGBTQ+ community and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

We offer inclusive training. If you have any needs which we can accommodate during the recruitment process and beyond, please let us know and we will be happy to work with you to meet them.

Contact the 'Have a question' box on the DV Talent course page.

What it covers

The first weekend will focus on technical training and exercises (and generally demystifying the technicals!), including building the camera, settings, lenses, framing focus, exposure. Depth of field, lighting, sound, and plenty of hands on/practical exercises.

The second will revolve around shooting for the edit, including building sequences, storytelling, interview techniques and thinking like a filmmaker.

The final weekend will see delegates shoot their showreels (idea of stories to be presented before the programme commences). All reviewed by tutors with expert feedback.

Additional online masterclasses; edit producing, career progression / H&S and Compliance / Duty of Care and Mental wellbeing.

Plus, many tips and tricks from our industry pros along the way!

How to apply

Click the 'Apply now' button above. You’ll be redirected to the DV Talent website.

On applying, you will be asked to confirm the location you are applying for and your availability for the fixed dates. You are expected to be available for the duration of your chosen cohort.

Eligibility: You must have at least 2-3 years professional industry experience in unscripted TV.

Judging information

Application deadlines:

• Cardiff: 8th December 2023.
• London: 9th February 2024.
• Belfast: 12th April 2024.
• Manchester or Newcastle: 14th June 2024.
• Glasgow: 2nd August 2024.
• Birmingham: 20th September 2024.

The training provider hopes to inform applicants of the outcome of their application within a week of the deadline for each cohort.