Dive into an ocean of inspiration, as we come together to celebrate our shared mission of protecting and restoring our precious natural resources. Ground to Sound Film Fest is a call to action by the City of Tacoma for the health of our neighborhoods, our marine ecosystems, and Tacoma’s future.

We are inviting all filmmakers, storytellers, and environmental enthusiasts to submit your cinematic creations! Your film should highlight the urgent need to reduce stormwater drain runoff that can impair and damage our valuable ecosystems and the environment we all cherish.

Awards & Prizes

5 winning submissions from each tier (20 films in total) will be selected to win prizes. The top 3 from each tier will be screened at Ground to Sound Film Fest on March 1st.

The 20 winning submissions will be based on the following criteria by a panel of selected judges:

ORIGINALITY & CREATIVITY - G2SFF strives to set a space for films that are as unique and diverse as our community of creatives. Play, explore, and take us on a journey with you!

PLOT & EFFECTIVENESS OF MESSAGING - G2SFF is dedicated to showcasing short films centering on themes of caring for our oceanic friends and neighbors by reducing stormwater pollution that can impair and damage valuable ecosystems and the environment. Messaging should aim to amplify mission statement, inspire activism and motivate a shift towards taking action and finding solutions.

YOUTH TIER (0-12)
1st Place = $750
2nd Place = $500
3rd Place = $250
4th Place = $200
5th Place = $100

TEEN TIER (13-19)
1st Place = $750
2nd Place = $500
3rd Place = $250
4th Place = $200
5th Place = $100

AMATEUR ADULT
1st Place = $750
2nd Place = $500
3rd Place = $250
4th Place = $200
5th Place = $100

PROFESSIONAL ADULT*
1st Place = $750
2nd Place = $500
3rd Place = $250
4th Place = $200
5th Place = $100
*defined as someone who earns an income in the photo/video industry

PEOPLE'S CHOICE (as voted by attendees of the film screening)
$500 cash prize

PHOTO SUBMISSIONS
Four winners = $75 each

All winners awarded: certificate award, G2S tee & VIP bag

Rules & Terms

VIDEO/CONTESTANT REQUIREMENTS
Applicants must reside in South Sound region

Submitted pieces should not exceed six minutes but do keep in mind, that less is more!

Mission: Environmental Services protects and restores natural resources, keeping our city clean, safe and livable through garbage and recycling pickup, wastewater treatment, household hazardous waste disposal, protection from stormwater pollution, and much more. We believe everything we do supports healthy neighborhoods and a thriving Puget Sound, leaving a better Tacoma for all.
All work submitted should bring this mission to light centering on themes of caring for our oceanic friends and neighbors by reducing stormwater pollution that can impair and damage valuable ecosystems and the environment. Messaging should aim to amplify the mission statement, inspire activism, and motivate a shift towards taking action and finding solutions.

We welcome and encourage films in any language. However, if not in English, please ensure that your piece has English subtitles.

Applicants must follow submission guidelines as outlined on the website and submission portal.

All films and photos are due by 1/26/2024 in order to be considered.