Independent filmmaking is a creative process that starts with a concept or an idea, often driven by passion or personal experiences. It allows filmmakers the freedom to explore unique narratives that may not align with mainstream cinema. Independent films typically operate with limited budgets, relying on resourcefulness and creativity to bring stories to life. This approach fosters innovation, enabling filmmakers to experiment with storytelling techniques, visual styles, and creative freedom.

• Screenwriting Software: Tools like Final Draft and Celtx can assist you in structuring your screenplay effectively.

• Books on Storytelling:

  • "Save the Cat!" by Blake Snyder

  • "The Anatomy of Story" by John Truby

• Online Learning Platforms:

  • MasterClass: Offers courses in various filmmaking disciplines taught by industry professionals.

  • Coursera: Provides access to courses on filmmaking from reputable institutions.

• Local Film Resources:

  • Your Golden Isles Film Society: Join us for filmmaker forums that include panels on current projects, barriers to filmmaking, and tips + tricks to making the most of your film. Visit our events page here to learn more!

  • Savannah Regional Film Commission (Film Savannah): As an AFCI certified Film Commission, Film Savannah is the central point of contact for entertainment production in Georgia’s Coastal region.  They also provide location assistance and coordination with local crew and businesses.

  • Savannah Film Alliance: Offers a welcoming space to connect with fellow creatives, showcase your work, and find opportunities to collaborate.

  • Coastal Entertainment Alliance: Learn about Statewide resources on a more broader scale.

  • Georgia Film Office: Provides information on film incentives and resources specific to Georgia.

• Funding Opportunities:

  • Seed & Spark: An online resource to promote and crowdfund your film.

• Community and Networking:

  • Filmmaker Forum: Coming to a city near you, join us for a panel discussion on current projects, barriers to indie filmmaking, and tips + tricks to making the most of your film. Visit our events page here to learn more!

  • Attend local film festivals, such as the Golden Isles Film Festival, and workshops to meet fellow filmmakers and gain practical experience.

• Budget Ahead! Budgeting is crucial to any production. That means keeping up with expenses that includes meals, transportation, housing, crew, and equipment.

• Begin search for cast and crew: Whether you already have talent or are just beginning, we recommend attending local filmmaker networking events to spread the word! The earlier the connection, the better.

Stay engaged for the upcoming Film Academy, launching in fall 2025, which will offer structured resources and foster collaboration within the Golden Isles film community.

• Create a shared spreadsheet (with details!): We recommend creating a spreadsheet to prepare for your production to include Call Times, locations, budget, and personal expenses (you’ll thank us later for adding this in). This will help you and your crew know when and where to be, all while staying organized to report on statistics and financials for later.

• Film Commissions: Check in with neighboring film commissions to understand permitting, resources, and incentives for film production within the area. (Film Savannah and Film Coastal Georgia)

• Production Companies and Crew: Connect with local production companies that offer services such as crew, equipment rental, and post-production. (Pigmental Studios, GICCA Studios (Golden Isles College and Career Academy) and SWIFT (Savannah Women in Film and Television))

• Workshops and Training Programs: Stay tuned for our official announcement for open enrollment for our first cohort of our local Film Academy!

• Grants and Funding Resources: Research available grants and funding opportunities specifically aimed at supporting film and creative projects in Georgia.

• Film Equipment Rentals: Identify local businesses that provide rentals for cameras, lighting, and sound equipment essential for production.

• Talent and Crew Directories: Utilize online platforms or local directories to find actors and crew members interested in collaborating on projects.

• Editing and Post-Production Facilities: Look for local studios or professionals who specialize in editing and post-production services to help finalize your project.

• Editing Facilities: Numerous studios in coastal Georgia offer professional editing services, equipped with the latest software and hardware to streamline the post-production process.

• Sound Design Services: Access to local sound design companies specializing in audio post-production, including voice-over recording, sound effects, and mixing.

• Color Grading Experts: Find color grading specialists who enhance the visual quality of films, ensuring that the final product meets industry standards.

• Technical Equipment Rentals: Several rental houses provide equipment for post-production needs, from cameras to audio gear, accommodating various budgets and project scales.

• Film Festivals and Workshops: Local film festivals offer networking opportunities and workshops that focus on post-production techniques, enabling filmmakers to connect with industry professionals.

  • FilmFreeway: A platform to submit your film(s) to various festivals for greater exposure.

• Grants and Funding Opportunities: Explore funding options available for projects based in coastal Georgia, aiding in the financial aspect of post-production.

• Networking Platforms: Engage with online and local communities, such as social media groups and meetups, to share resources and collaborate on post-production endeavors.

• Film Schools and Educational Resources: Leverage programs at local institutions and universities that provide training in post-production skills, including editing, sound mixing, and visual effects. (If enrolled in a participating Georgia Institution, visit the Georgia Film Academy to learn about film and course accreditations.)

1. Research Festivals

   • Identify festivals that align with your film's genre, themes, and style. Look for those that support independent filmmakers and have a positive reputation. (GIFF should be on your film festival list!)

   • If you’re planning on visiting locations around the world, check if different cites host film festivals. Attendance can vary depending on budget for travel (a separate line for travel outside of production travel).

2. Check Submission Guidelines

   • Carefully read each festival's submission requirements, including deadlines, formats (digital or film), entry fees, and eligibility criteria. Most festivals have required asks such as being able to use all of your marketing material (listed on FilmFreeway) to add in their promotional material, and some having prerequisites,such as to how late a film would have been produced or if your film has had its world premiere.

3. Prepare Your Materials

   • Along with your film, be prepared to submit:

     • Film details (i.g. Duration, Crew, Poster, Trailer (or link to it), etc.)

     • (recommended) A Director’s Statement. This will give you the opportunity to explainsome insight into the film.

     • Marketing Material (i.g. photos, trailer, any additioanl assets you’re comfortable sharing publicly).

4. Create a Film Poster

   • Design an eye-catching poster that visually represents your film. This will be used for promotional materials if selected.

5. Budget for Submission Fees

   • Some festivals require entry fees that can vary widely. This can get controversial, but we’ve learned that budgeting accordingly and applying to several festivals will increase your chances of acceptance.

6. Submit on Time

   • Pay close attention to submission deadlines. Early submissions often have lower fees, and submitting late can result in disqualification.

   • Check to see if the festival has state or student discounts. Every little bit saved counts!

7. Use Submission Platforms

   • Platforms like FilmFreeway and Withoutabox streamline the submission process and allow you to track your submissions efficiently.

8. Follow Up

   • After submitting, it’s acceptable to follow up with the festival regarding your submission status, but be courteous and avoid being overly persistent.

9. Prepare for Feedback

   • Be open to feedback, whether your film is accepted or not. Festivals often provide valuable insights that can help improve your future projects.

10. Promote Your Film

• If accepted, promote your screening across social media and local networks to maximize attendance and engagement.

• If selected and you plan on attending the festival, be sure to coordinate with the festival programmers on a smooth screening. Festival programmers should reach out to you if they need additional information from you (such as screening format).

• Attend the festival (if applicable) and be sure to thank the programmers if in person if you can! Chances are that you will be in their thoughts when and if they look to do a highlight series on you and your film.

By following these steps, you can enhance your chances of successfully submitting your indie film to a film festival, paving the way for exposure and connections in the film industry.