FILM PRODUCTION is the process of making a film. The producer (student submitting the entry) is not required to appear in the film but if the student chooses to, a tripod may be used. All screenwriting, directing and editing must be done by the student producer. All entries must be original student footage. PowerPoint presentations are not allowed.

To portray your original work of fiction or nonfiction, consider the following styles:

• Animation: Demonstrates motion by sequencing still objects or using computer-generated graphics.

• Narrative: Tells a fictional story developed by the student.

• Documentary: Presents facts and information.

• Experimental: Explores movement, light and montage.

• Multimedia: Uses a combination of different contents (text, audio, still images, animation, etc.).

Whether an entry displays use of technologies or a simple approach, it will be judged primarily on how well the student uses their artistic vision to portray the theme, originality and creativity. Consider plot and characters, visuals (setting, costumes, animation), sound and background music, editing, etc. to show a clear relation to the theme.

Digital technology and/or software can be used to develop, enhance and/or present an entry but may not provide the primary design and/or concept. Entrants must use the “Additional Details” field to provide a brief description of the tools and methods used in the creation process, including any generative elements.

Copyright: Plagiarized entries will be disqualified. Use of copyrighted material, including any copyrighted cartoon characters, material downloaded from the internet, copyrighted recorded music or copyrighted photographs or stock images, is not acceptable, except for the following:

• If background music is used, it must be cited on the entry form.

• Entries may include public places, well-known products, trademarks or certain other copyrighted material as long as that copyrighted material is incidental to the subject matter of the piece and/or is a smaller element of a whole. The resulting work cannot try to establish an association between the student and the trademark/business/material or influence the purchase/non-purchase of the trademarked good.

• Entries may include portions of existing copyrighted works, such as photographs, magazine or digital media clippings and/or type cut out of a newspaper, as long as those portions of copyrighted works are used to create a completely new and different work of art.

Suggestions for Audio/Visual Quality:

• Use a tripod to hold the camera still.

• Make sure there is plenty of lighting, especially if shooting indoors.

• Turn off all noise-making devices in the room (air conditioners, fans, telephones, etc.).

• Record a short test and listen to it. If needed, change the record volume or microphone location.

• Make sure the background music (if any) is audible on the recording.

• Allow for two seconds of silence at the beginning and end of your recording.

All participants must also follow the official rules for participation.