Filmmaking Challenge
Folkestone Documentary Festival Filmmaking Challenge will return for a 4th year in 2026 to inspire, engage and celebrate Kent-based filmmakers. We encourage all levels of filmmakers to pick up a camera and make a documentary.
Are you up for the challenge?
Working in partnership with Klip Films and Screen South, we’ve devised the competition to encourage seasoned and budding filmmakers to come up with ideas in the documentary form based on the local environment, stories and communities in Kent.
The competition is open to both professional and novice filmmakers and is an opportunity to have some fun with the form or try out something new. The jury will be looking for imaginative interpretations of subject matter rather than perfect technique. Films can be shot on multiple cameras or on your phone - it’s up to you. The main thing is to pick up a camera and get shooting!
FILM SUBMISSIONS FROM PREVIOUS YEARS
In search of inspiration? Unsure whether to take part? Watch some of the submissions from the last three years here to see the range of films and filmmakers who took part.
More info on how to take part this year will be released soon.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Are the End Credits counted as part of the 5 min duration?
A: No, the maximum duration of the “story” must be under 5 minutes. The End Credits are allowed to run for 30 seconds on top of the 5 minutes. Please note that any Start Credits are included in the 5 minutes.
Q: What music can I use?
A: You can use composed music, but you must have written permission from the composer to use their music. If music has been released by a record label, it is often very difficult to obtain the rights, and it will most likely be expensive. We suggest teaming up with a composer or musician, or using free library music, which you may be able to find online, but make sure to check the terms of use very carefully.
Q: Can I use archive material that I have shot before the competition’s timescale?
A: You are allowed to use a reasonable amount of archive pictures and footage so long as you own the rights to use them, and it is clear that the documentary at large was made during the challenge timescale.
Q: Do I need to be a professional filmmaker to take part?
A: No, the Filmmaking Challenge is open to both professional and non-professional filmmakers, and we welcome a range of stories, experiences and abilities.
CONTACT
If you have any questions, you are welcome to drop Screen South a line: info@screensouth.org