Submission Requirements for Makers

Requirements for a tutorial:

Tutorials should a minimum of 10 minutes in length


  • Define Tutorial Objectives:

    • Clearly outline educational goals and key takeaways.

    • Identify target audience and expertise level.

  • Choose a Topic:

    • Select specific, relevant topic aligned with objectives.

  • Script and Outline:

    • Develop script or detailed outline.

    • Divide content into segments for flow.

  • Engaging Introduction:

    • Start with captivating intro that clearly states who you are, and what the viewer will be learning.

  • Structured Content Delivery:

    • Break content into digestible sections.

    • If using visuals, slides, or demos, they must be horizontal.

    • Incorporate stories that are real-life examples.

  • Interactive Elements:

    • Include the Downloadable MadeTV branded supplies list template (see below) with your video.

  • Professional Filming Setup:

    • Use high-quality cameras. (It is very likely you will need more than one camera to have the appropriate camera angle throughout your video.Ensure proper lighting).

    • Use stable surface or tripod for your camera.

  • Audio Quality:

    • Use a decent microphone.

    • Record in quiet environment.

  • Practice and Timing:

    • Rehearse for smooth delivery.

    • Adjust content to fit timeframe.

  • Filming:

    • Start with brief introduction.

    • Include multiple camera angles.

    • Maintain eye contact.

    • Use natural gestures.

  • Editing:

    • Remove unnecessary pauses, incorrect camera angles, mistakes in filming, etc.

      Add intro/outro graphics.

  • Branding:

    • Incorporate branding elements.

    • Maintain consistency.

  • Promotion:

    • Share teaser clips on social media.

    • Encourage viewers to share.

Requirements for a pilot episode submission:

Pilot episodes should be 15 to 30 minutes in length. ONLY ONE EPISODE SHOULD BE SUBMITTED AT A TIME.

Please refer to the "Maker Submitted Pilots" section on the "Watch Now" tab for reference on format.


  • Concept Development:

    • Idea Generation:

      • Start with a beloved genre, a personal passion, or something unique and new.

      • Consider what makes your idea unique.

    • Brainstorming:

      • Create a mind map or list of story elements.

      • Mix and match ideas until you find a compelling concept.

    • Target Audience:

      • Identify age group and interests.

      • Tailor concept to appeal to this audience.

  • Script Development:

    • Outline:

      • Structure with clear beginning, middle, and end.

      • Introduce main characters and motivations.

    • Character Development:

      • Ensure characters have clear goals or conflicts.

      • Keep dialogue natural and character-driven.

  • Pre-Production Planning:

    • Storyboarding:

      • Visualize episode flow with key scenes.

      • Note camera angles and movements.

    • Location Scouting:

      • Find suitable, accessible filming locations.

      • Consider practicality for filming.

    • Shot List:

      • Plan each shot in detail for coverage.

  • Equipment and Budgeting:

    • Camera:

      • Use smartphone or DSLR for quality.

    • Audio Equipment:

      • Affordable options for dialogue clarity.

      • Ensure quiet recording environment.

    • Lighting:

      • Utilize natural light or LED lights.

  • Team Assembly:

    • DIY Filming:

      • Set-up stable camera.

      • Use tripods or household items.

    • Enlisting Help:

      • Involve friends, family, or film students.

      • Collaborate for support.

  • Filming:

    • Stay True to Script:

      • Follow script with room for improvisation.

      • Capture various angles for interest.

    • Natural Movement:

      • Avoid static shots; experiment with movement.

  • Editing Process:

    • Software:

      • Use free or affordable editing software.

    • Cutting and Polishing:

      • Trim scenes for concise runtime.

      • Enhance audio and experiment with effects.

  • Engaging Elements:

    • Captivating Intro:

      • Grab attention early.

      • Introduce tone or compelling conflict.

  • Test Screenings:

    • Gather Feedback:

      • Share with someone who has some expertise in video making for constructive criticism.

      • Adjust based on feedback.

  • Submission and Promotion:

    • Create a Series Cover:

      • Design eye-catching image.

      • Use design tools or seek help.

    • Prepare Descriptions:

      • Craft concise series concept and episode description.

    • Promotion:

      • Utilize social media for buzz.

      • Share behind-the-scenes content and trailers.

  • Remember:

    • Enjoy the process and learn from the experience.

    • Stay open to feedback and adapt for audience.

Requirements for lifestyle focused content:

Lifestyle Content should be a minimum of 10 minutes in length


Lifestyle content can include everything from engaging studio tours, insightful interviews, personal stories, discussions on mindset, etc., all curated to inspire and empower the creative journey.


  • Multiple Angle Shots:

    • Include a variety of camera angles to provide depth and visual interest to the content.

    • Capture close-ups, wide shots, medium shots, and different perspectives to offer viewers a comprehensive view of the subject.

  • Beautiful B-roll Overlay:

    • Incorporate visually stunning B-roll footage to complement the main content and enhance the storytelling. (this is especially important if you are not demoing a project)

    • Use B-roll to illustrate key points, transitions between scenes, or add context to the narrative.

  • Clear and Direct Information:

    • Ensure that information presented in the content is concise, relevant, and easy to understand.

    • Use clear and engaging language to communicate ideas, instructions, or concepts effectively to the viewer.

  • Engaging Narrative:

    • Develop a compelling narrative or storyline that keeps viewers engaged from start to finish.

  • High Production Quality:

    • Maintain high production standards throughout the content, including video and audio quality, lighting, and editing.

    • Use professional-grade equipment and techniques to ensure crisp visuals, clear audio, and smooth transitions.

  • Attention to Detail:

    • Pay attention to the details in all aspects of production, including framing, composition, color grading, and sound design.

    • Ensure consistency in style, tone, and branding to create a cohesive viewing experience.

  • Creativity and Innovation:

    • Experiment with unique filming techniques, creative editing styles, and imaginative storytelling approaches to stand out and captivate viewers.

By meeting these requirements, content submissions can effectively engage viewers, convey information clearly, and create a memorable and compelling viewing experience.

Cover Image Requirements

A good cover image for a video serves as the first impression for potential viewers, enticing them to click and watch. Here are some key elements to consider when creating a cover image:


  1. Resolution: Ensure that the cover image has a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels (Full HD) to maintain clarity and quality across different devices and platforms.

  2. Title Visibility: The title of the video should be clear and easy to read, even at a glance. Choose a bold and legible font that stands out against the background.

  3. Visual Impact: Incorporate eye-catching visuals that accurately represent the content of the video and capture the viewer's attention. Use vibrant colors, striking imagery, or compelling graphics to make the cover image visually appealing.

  4. Relevance: Make sure the cover image reflects the theme, tone, and subject matter of the video. It should give viewers a glimpse of what to expect and spark their curiosity.

  5. Brand Consistency: Maintain consistency with your brand's visual identity by using colors, fonts, and design elements that align with your brand guidelines. This helps to strengthen brand recognition and credibility.

  6. Composition: Pay attention to the composition of the cover image, ensuring a balanced layout and focal point. Consider using the rule of thirds or other composition techniques to create a visually pleasing image.

Tutorial Example

Please watch the example video to familiarize yourself with our quality standards and review the guidelines before submitting your application.

Pilot Episode Example

Please watch the example video to familiarize yourself with our quality standards and review the guidelines before submitting your application.

Lifestyle Content Example

Please watch the example video to familiarize yourself with our quality standards and review the guidelines before submitting your application.

Edit

Frequently Asking Questions

After I submit content to MadeTV, what's next?

After your submitted videos have been accepted and posted on the MadeTV website the next step is to start driving your audience to MadeTV to watch! Similar to managing your social channels and business, the responsibility of building your audience on MadeTV falls upon you. Like any endeavor, this requires time and consistency. 

How can I build my presence on MadeTV?

  • Utilize email campaigns, links on your website, and regular social posts to drive awareness. 

  • Take advantage of our monthly maker calls and small groups for assistance. 

  • Engage with our community page regularly to boost your content's visibility. 

  • Consider hosting live workshops or collaborations with other makers on MadeTV's streaming platform. Remember, each submission gives viewers another reason to watch you on MadeTV.

How do I get my content broadcast through your partners at PBS12?

As you submit content on our platform, we monitor views. If your content performs well (ranks in the top percentile of viewership), we'll send it to our partners at PBS12 for review. If they choose to run it, they'll notify us, and we'll inform you.


Pilot TV episode submissions follow a similar process. If your pilot meets our guidelines and performs exceptionally well, we will send it to PBS12 for review and possible inclusion in their broadcast schedule.

How long does it take to get my content picked up by MadeTV's broadcast partners or to get my own TV show?

If your content performs well for a minimum of 12 months on our site you could be considered for broadcasting or have a production filmed by our team. Expect 12 to 24 months to gather enough data on your content and profile before moving to the next steps with MadeTV.


Stay active and continue building your profile and content with us.

What are the next steps if my content performs well?

If your content excels and catches MadeTV's interest, we may invite you to participate in our in-house workshops or collaborate on a TV show concept. Expect planning to take a year, with another year for filming and project completion, depending on production scope.

Will everyone who contributes to MadeTV be brought into MadeTV productions, get their own TV show produced, or have the opportunity to be broadcast through PBS12?

No, the number of makers progressing to the next step with us varies and depends on content performance on MadeTV.

Ready to Upload?

To submit your video for approval, use the provided link below. Please allow up to 5 business days for our team to review your submission. Once approved, your video will appear under your profile on the website within the same timeframe. If revisions are necessary or if your video doesn't meet our updated guidelines, a team member will contact you to provide feedback and discuss potential revisions. Thank you for your cooperation.

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