South East Art's regional short film competition for young people is now open. YOOFTube is open to everyone aged 12-20 who lives in the Snowy Monaro, Eurobodalla or Bega Valley.
Young filmmakers, even first-timers, are invited to submit short films of less than seven minutes in length, on any subject to South East Arts by August 1.
"You can use anything to make your film," said South East Arts' screen industry development officer, Kate Howarth. "Use your phone, your tablet or camera. You can film any subject and tell your own story, drama, comedy, documentary - any style you like."
"The winner of Best Film in YOOFTube 2016, Flowers by Laila Bradshaw of Cooma, was only 36 seconds long but was able to tell a story that really captured the judges' attention.
"There is a category for Best Music Video also, which is a great incentive for local musicians who have an original song. Our YOOFTube Facebook page helps young filmmakers link up with others in the region and provides some great opportunities for collaboration and a chance to talk about story ideas and filming techniques.
"In a world where people are turning to digital media to tell their stories and interact, it's great for our region's young filmmakers to have a chance to get their films out there. The finalists' films will be shown at theatres and festivals around the region.”
There are amazing prizes on offer including cash in various categories. Strongly supported each year, by author JD Shaw, Create NSW, the Bega Valley and Snowy Monaro shire councils, as well as local filmmakers and businesses, YOOFTube is now in its sixth year.
In 2016, YOOFTube entries explored everything from the life of a boy stuck in a frog suit to lost love and betrayal, domestic violence and alcoholism, the future without wifi and even bad dreams about exams.
If you want to expand your filmmaking skills, or are new to making videos on your devices, YOOFTube is offering Filmmaking 101 workshops around the region. Each workshop is run by a professional filmmaker and will help young people come up with story ideas, plan their shoots, edit their work or even put the finishing touch to something they've already started.
Filmmaking 101 workshops will take place in Batemans Bay and Cooma on June 4 and in Bega on June 18. YOOFTube entries close August 1.
For more information on YOOFTube terms and conditions and Filmmaking 101 workshops go to www.southeastarts.org.au/YOOFTube or check out YOOFTube on Facebook.
Films from previous YOOFTube years can be found here
