Need help with your film?

black and white illustration of a film camera

We know that making a film can be a lot of work! Make sure that you're on track to make the best film you can by checking out some of these resources:

Library Resources

Check out books and videos you can access through the library to learn about writing screenplays, filmmaking techniques, and more.

The library also has Studios with software and equipment to help you create your film.

Filming & Editing Tools

Filming with your Phone's Camera

These videos have great tips for filming on your iPhone or Android device.

Camera Terminology

Below you'll learn about some useful camera terminology paired with useful links that go into greater depths of what they are and how to use them effectively while filming.

ISO (Light Sensitivity): The lower the ISO the finer the grain. The higher the ISO the grainier the picture will appear. Learn more here!

Auto Focus: Will automatically focus on a subject in frame. This is not recommended for interviews or non-moving subjects.

Shutter Speed: If your shooting video you’ll want to aim around 1/48th to 1/60th. A slower shutter speed allows more light into the camera. Shutter Speed vs. FPS

Aperture: Allows you to control how narrow the lens is. This will determine how much light is reaching your pictures. Learn more here!

Video Quality and FPS: You should aim to shoot in 1080p. This is the size of your video file which measures out to 1920X1080 which is the resolution for High Definition video.

FPS or Frames Per Second determines how many frames will appear per second in your video. For shooting video you’ll want to do 29.7 fps which is the standard. Anything higher would start creating a slow motion version of your video you're shooting.

Tips on Filming with a Green Screen

Why would I need to use a Green Screen?

Shooting video in front of a green screen allows you to composite layers of video together.
Allows you to superimpose individuals on screen.

What do I need to film a Green Screen scene/shot?

Solid Green background (you can use a green screen or even a green construction paper background)
Make sure none of your actors are wearing green
3 Point lighting on your subject
Lights to light the green background
Camera + tripod

Video: How to use Green Screen with iMovie

Editing Software

Video, Images, Music and Sound Effects

Use the resources below to find video, images, music and sound effects to use in your film, beyond what you film yourself. Using your original footage or copyright-free, public domain or creative commons copyright images will ensure that there will be no copyright infringement by films in the fest. Make sure to properly include what you use in your film's credits.