1. The video must be substantially original video taken underwater by the author(s), for example, 50% original underwater video. The video must be processed solely by the authors.
2. The original underwater content must be shot in the wild -- no aquarium or set up shots.
3. Other video such as topside, archival or other video may be used, for example 50% topside, archival or other video,
4. The video must be in MP4 1080p format and be less than 2 GB.
5. The video must not depict or imply any stressful or abusive actions towards marine life or the environment.
6. By submitting a work to this event, the authors grant HUFF the right to show the work, should it be accepted, in one or more showings at the 2027 HUFF presentation and virtually. Excerpts from submitted videos may also be used in the trailer or promotions for the festival.
Please provide relevant info, including the following:
1. The name of the film.
2. The name of the filmmaker(s).
3. A brief introduction of the film (100 words or less).
4. A brief introduction of the filmmaker(s) (100 words or less).
5. Photo of the filmmaker(s).
6. A Contact email for the filmmaker(s)
7. How did you become aware of the HUFF?
By submitting the above information along with your film to the 2026 Houston Underwater Film Festival, you will be declaring that all the included information is true to the best of your knowledge and that you have all legal rights, including legal rights to the music, to submit this film for public screening at the 2027 HUFF. Your submission of the film is your affirmation to the truth of this declaration, in lieu of a signature.
Acceptance Procedure
Videos will be accepted for screening at HUFF based on the decision of a jury of HUFF Committee members. The goal of the committee is to assemble the best possible underwater video show regardless of origin of the works. The jury will consider the following criteria in reaching their decisions.
1. Coherency. Does the video have an appealing theme, story, point of view or message.
2. Technical excellence.
3. Adherence to rules and guidelines.
4. Aesthetics -- music, dramatic impact, humor, etc.
5. Commercial content and watermarks are discouraged.
Submission Procedure
Films must be submitted through FilmFreeway no later than January 15, 2027. Acceptance status will be communicated no later than March 1, 2027 via email.
