So I applied for a 4Talent day in Lincoln, and to my suprise, I got it!
For those who don't know, a 4Talent day is the only way you can get work experience, placements, apprenticeships and internships at Channel 4. There are only a few talent days a year, and a limited amount of spaces.
Both me and George got a place, which made the whole experience less nerve-wracking. Thank god!
The day started by registering, choosing your workshop (out of four options; the art of documentary film-making, acting, presenters and standing out), then we got our goodie bags! I love free things... who doesn't?
The day itself was a bit like Industry Week at my university. We spoke to people in the industry, had a Q&A, learnt about how to get into Channel 4 and more. In the workshop, we were taught by Rad Miller (a fellow Yorkshire man!), who lectured us about documentary film making. Then, 5 camera ops were given an old style video camera, and they chose people for their crew. In our crews, we had to make a 3 min documentary, not to be edited, that had specific shots in it. I took the role as Assistant Director, and came up with the idea for the film. We used Theory books to find out whether people who have passed their test still remember the answers, and whether they think it's relevant. It was a simple but do-able idea, which was vital as we had just 1 hour to film it. It was successful - we learnt that people still do remember their theory, and think it's vital for driving.
So, now what happens? Well, we get to sign up for any work experience, crews and placements we want. We get to see what happens at Channel 4, and get internships. Basically, by going to a day full of education, fun and free things, we now have opened the door to hundreds of opportunities! Woooohooooo!
(Spot the George and Amy!)
I'd highly recommend all aspiring film makers to go to a 4Talent event, you just never know who you might meet!
