Opening Shot: An exciting new film development programme for first-time filmmakers in Lochside, Dumfries!
a) Download the Application Guidelines.
b) Access the Application Form.
c) Attend an Information Session.
Arts D&G is proud to collaborate with Lochside Is Families Together (LIFT) and work with Astar Media to deliver Opening Shot – a brand-new national film development programme funded by Screen Scotland as part of their Talent Builder Initiative, with support from National Lottery funds and the Scottish Government.
What is Opening Shot and who is it for?
Designed for new Scottish storytellers, Opening Shot has been created to support people taking their first real step into filmmaking. If you’ve never picked up a camera before but you have an idea for a story you’d like to tell, this is your opportunity to develop and produce an original short film, with full creative and financial support! Opening Shot aims to discover and empower new voices in Scottish film – from complete beginners to self-taught creatives – helping them bring their stories to life. The programme is open to anyone above school-leaving age who is not currently in formal education, and who lives in Dumfries & Galloway. We especially encourage applications from people who live in Lochside, those who engage with LIFT D&G.
People of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply, particularly those who may not have had access to film opportunities before. You’re never too old to give it a go. We are looking for ideas in live action, animation and experimental film (documentary projects are not eligible for this programme).
Chosen participants will receive:
-Financial support to take part in the form a £1,500 stipend, so you won’t be out of pocket for your time learning and creating.
– Creative mentoring and practical workshops covering story development, visual storytelling and production skills.
– Production funding for costs related to making their short film (around five minutes long).
– Ongoing support from Astar Media’s programme director and professional mentors throughout the process.
All selected storytellers will have their final film showcased at a special screening event hosted by LIFT and Arts D&G, which will also tour and be seen across partner communities in Scotland.
WORKSHOP DATES
All selected filmmakers will take part in a series of full day-long workshops led by our Programme Director. The workshops will take place in Lochside. If you live in an area with poor public transport links and you’re worried about getting there, we can help arrange transport to ensure you are able to take part in person. We can also help with childcare or other access costs that help enable participation. The sessions will introduce you to the fundamentals of filmmaking, while giving you space to explore and experiment with your ideas in a supportive environment.
Sat 21st March – Introduction to the programme and story crafting skills.
Sat 28th March – Turning ideas into scripts.
Saturday 4th April – Making a schedule and budget
Sat 18th April – Camera skills Workshop
Sat 2nd May – Editing workshop.
How do I apply?
First of all, to find out more, please join us at one of the following information sessions:
IN PERSON
Astar Media will host an information session on Sunday 8th February, 2.00 – 3.30pm at the Loreburn Hall, Newall Terrace, Dumfries DG1 1 LN, when you can learn more about the programme, what makes a good short film idea, and how to submit an application. While this session is free, if you could, please use this link to let us know if you plan to attend the session so we get a rough idea of numbers. Or, just turn up on the day!
ONLINE
Astar Media will host an online information session on Monday 9th February at 6.00 – 7.00pm, when you can learn more about the programme, what makes a good short film idea, and how to submit an application. While this session is free, if you could, please use this link to let us know if you plan to attend the session so we get a rough idea of numbers.
APPLY
If you are interested in applying, please read our Application Guidelines, then send us an application: Application Form
We particularly welcome applicants who face marginalisation, including D/deaf and/or disabled people, LGBTQIA+ people, women, people of colour, working-class, and people from any related background or identity.
We welcome proposals in alternative formats such as BSL, Braille, sound or video recording or transcribed by phone. We have a budget for removing potential barriers applicants might face when making an application. Please contact us if you would like to discuss this in more detail: hello@artsdg.org.uk
If you would like to discuss any aspect of your application before you submit it, please contact us: hello@artsdg.org.uk. Please be aware that we are a small team and might not be able to respond immediately to requests.
The closing date for applications: Sunday 1st March at midnight.
Interviews for shortlisted filmmakers: Thursday 5th and Friday 6th March .
Four successful applicants notified by: Friday 13th March.
These four filmmakers will then work out a schedule with LIFT, Arts D&G and Astar Media to receive their funding and take part in the full development and production process, from original concept to a completed short film.
Terms & Conditions
1. The Opening Shot programme is open to anyone within the Lochside, Dumfries area who is over school-leaving age and not currently in formal education.
2. The closing date for applications is: 22nd February at midnight.
3. From the applications received, Astar Media, LIFT and Arts D&G will select four candidates to take part in the programme, who will be notified by email and phone, with full details on the next steps.
4. The programme will be administered and delivered by Astar Media, funded by Screen Scotland, and in partnership with LIFT and Arts D&G.
5. The programme will consist of hands-on workshops and support delivered in person and/or online via MS Teams or similar platform.
6. Records of individual project funding must be kept and submitted as required, up to the completion of each film.
7. All those selected will retain copyright of their final short film, but agree to allow Astar Media, LIFT and Arts D&G and Screen Scotland to show and use their completed film, workshop and production photos, plus any other materials created throughout the project for promotional purposes, for up to two years following the first screening date.
8. The selection decision will be final.
9. The Application Guidelines document provides more information.
