Demystify the process of raising money for a project by learning about different avenues you can take, including applying for grants. In this presentation, learn how to write an effective grant application, as well as other tips for increasing your chances of success for raising the funds.

 

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Production is rarely as simple as “lights, camera, action.” Whether working as a one-man crew or with a full-fledged team, production features a multitude of jobs running in harmony. Learn about how to have an organized and productive set from local filmmakers Conrad Weaver and Brian Pennington, who have years of experience working on all different kinds of productions.

 

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Film festivals are a great opportunity for filmmakers to have their work shown on the big screen and seen by a wide range of people, and there are numerous ones in the DMV area that provide the red carpet experience to entrants. Hear from leaders of the DC Independent Film Festival, the Washington West Film Festival and SmartPhilm Festival about what makes them unique and how they celebrate independent filmmakers.

 

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Started by giving a young D.C. boy a camera to document the life of his family, "17 Blocks" follows the Sanford family over two decades as they struggle and attempt to overcome addiction and violence in the shadow of the U.S. Capitol. This award-winning documentary has screened at some of the biggest film festivals in the world, including the Tribeca Film Festival and AFI Docs Film Festival, and now the filmmakers behind it will sit down at the Video Show to discuss how they pieced together the story of the Sanford's and have shared it with audiences.

Hollywood films have studios backing them up, but for many independent filmmakers, their support comes from local independent film associations that can help in numerous ways from development through post-production. Organizations like Docs in Progress, Women in Film & Video and TIVA-DC do this for DMV filmmakers at all stages of their careers, and executives from all three will be on hand to discuss many of the benefits that are available with them.

 

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After your film is completed, it’s time for it to find its audience. Many filmmakers dream of a run at theater across the country, but that isn’t always the most realistic option. With a panel of experts that include an independent producer, legal expert and Vimeo executive, learn about the process of getting your film on screen, from contracts to alternative distribution options.

 

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Join Chicago-based indie producer and creative life coach Angie Gaffney for a multifaceted discussion and workshop on navigating your filmmaking career while maintaining your sanity. Topics will include: developing the right idea, when you should quit your day job, how to approach fear and shame in the filmmaking process and well-being as access to full creative expression.

Angie is a firm believer that you can have not only financial success and stability as a filmmaker or entrepreneur, but also prioritize your own health in a way that elevates your own creative expression.

 

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