Getting Started Guide for Pitch Shoots
Getting Started: How do I prepare a Pitch Shoot?
Look at our Special Briefs page, fill in the shoot template, submit and wait for the good news. Please follow the steps below and use the standardized documents when submitting your proposal.
1. Step 1: Read this Getting Started Guide to familiarize yourself with the procedure.
2. Step 2: Review the briefs available on the Pitch Shoot landing page. Using the chosen theme, develop a concept or scenario for your shoot.
3. Step 3: Plan out your shoot by filling in the Shoot Plan Template. This is key to ensuring your shoot plan is clear. This will also be used as the standardized document for evaluating all pitch shoots.
4. Step 4: Submit your completed Shoot Plan to by date established on the Special Briefs Pitch Shoot landing page. Pitches should be submitted through Submittable (clicking on Step 3 on the Pitch Shoot page).
5. The budget available and number of shoots awarded will vary according to region and period.
6. We’ll review your Shoot Pitches, let you know if it was approved, then arrange for the money to be sent, and communicate next steps.
How long will it take to receive funds?
Once the pitch has been approved, we will set up the necessary paperwork for your payment. Depending on how long the contributor takes to return necessary information, payments can usually take anywhere from 15 days to 45 days. However, we will work hard to ensure you are paid in advance of your shoot.
Can I pair up with another contributor for a shoot?
It is optional to have 1 or more contributors shooting with you, as long as they are also exclusive.
Why will I be asked to “process and upload … within a reasonable time following the Pitch Shoot”?
Don’t let the shoot collect dust on your hard drive. Make the selections right away and get them uploaded ASAP. This will be a requirement of receiving Pitch Shoot Funding. Failure to do so will result in your shoot being cancelled and money being returned.
What are some Tips & Tricks for a successful Pitch Shoot?
Keep it competitive. There’s a set budget for pitch shoot offers and many people pitching.
Keep it on point. The single biggest factor is how close the Pitch is aligned to our content needs. Please be sure to use our Briefs to guide you.
Put some effort into your brief. We literally only have what you give us, so use your space to sell us on your concept. Fill in all the points and put in some pride! Terms such as “etc” or a shots list with “normal routine” tell us you haven’t thought through your shoot in full. Pictures are worth a thousand words, so please also use the visual references to communicate your vision.
You do you. We want you to challenge yourself to get successful content relevant to your region. Consider your strengths and unique creative vision. Customers are looking for new, original, and fresh imagery rather than variations of what is already available.
