It should be a given that having your short film or feature in a film festival is a good thing. One big trick is figuring out how to get into a festival in the first place. It can be a tricky endeavor for, as with anything in life you have to make it past at least a few gatekeepers. There is no clear path to getting ones film selected, but in general it helps to have good press materials, noting any awards that you may have received and/or screening at other festivals. This, obvious but easy to overlook point, can really make the difference as it tells the festival director that your project has already been given a stamp of approval by another festival somewhere in the world.
You are either going to get in or you are not. Don’t call and bother the festival directors or other employees unless it is absolutely necessary. People are human, its that simple and you never know what is going to irritate them. By calling you are risking putting them in a bad mood, which no matter how professional they may be, could impact how they view your film. Imagine if they are selecting between your film and another and both are of equal quality and interest, do you really want to be the guy or gal who got on their nerves? Probably not. Remember festival directors and employees deal with hundreds if not thousands of filmmakers and they have likely “seen it all.” Don’t try slick talking your way into a festival, it will only make you look sleazy and a bit dim of wit, much like a clown trying to talk his way into a nightclub. Just resist the urge.
If there is a festival you really, really want into try volunteering. This way people no you. In any industry it is always better to be even slightly known than to be the unknown. Besides while at the festival you never know who you will meet and if you make friends with the festival directors or employees, well, all the better.
Let’s say you are a Miami based filmmaker, are you a local? Being a local filmmaker could really give you a leg up. Festivals love the idea that you might be able to help them sale tickets, they are in business after all just like you and if your film would be a Miami premiere, for example, and you are Miami based, then your film has a little something extra to offer. Look for angles of this nature and be opened minded.
Sara L. Gordon, Independent Film Specialist http://www.squidoo.com/Getting-film-Funding
Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sara_L._Gordon
An adult swim class sets the stage for this sexually charged comedy-drama about love, loss, and second chances. Three strangers-inextricably connected through personal heartbreak-find themselves entering deep water as they learn that life isn’t always about diving right in-it’s about getting your feet wet once in awhile.
Question by trabre2003: Looking for a new camcorder for independent filmmaking.?
I need to find a camera that has Manual zoom ( at least 10X), manual focus and white balance possible. Also either Mini DV or Hard drive. Optional: Be able to film in 16:9 widescreen, and be able to film in 24p. Hd an added plus if possible. i can spend anywhere from a grand to MAYBE a grand and a half if the camera is really good. appreciate any suggestions.
Best answer:
Answer by Windy
hi, what about this one–TFT Screen 5.0 Mega CCD Sensor Camcorder Camera?
# Compact camcorder at 6″ long, 2.6″ wide and thin, also comes with hand and shoulder strap.
# Cutting-edge silver body with two sets of control panel which provide much more convenience.
Go to see more details, hope this give u choice.
http://www.sourcingmap.com/digivision-ltps-tft-screen-mega-ccd-sensor-camcorder-camera-p-7678.html
What do you think? Answer below!
[wpramazon asin=”067146258X”]
Related Independent Filmmaking Articles