The Hunting Dog Film Festival celebrates the unique bond between hunters and their dogs through captivating films that showcase hunting adventures, conservation, and outdoor passion. Open to submissions from junior, amateur, and professional filmmakers, the festival highlights storytelling that inspires and educates. Film goers can enjoy a diverse lineup of films, meet fellow enthusiasts, and support conservation efforts while engaging in an exciting community event focused on tradition, safety, and the outdoors.

Awards & Prizes

The Hunting Dog Film Festival offers exciting awards and prizes sponsored by leading businesses and industry partners, providing more than just recognition. Filmmakers have the chance to win top-tier gear, cash prizes, and exclusive sponsor packages. Beyond the awards, participating films will gain nationwide visibility, as the festival is supported by influential businesses and networks within the hunting and conservation community. This exposure opens doors for filmmakers to connect with sponsors, grow their audience, and gain recognition among industry leaders, making it a unique opportunity for all participants.

Rules & Terms

The Hunting Dog Film Festival Submission Guidelines
Categories:
Youth: Open to filmmakers aged 18 and under.
Amateur: For filmmakers without professional experience or significant commercial exposure.
Professional: For experienced filmmakers with commercial exposure or professional backgrounds.
Accepted Film Types:
Short Films: 5-15 minutes
Long/Premier Films: 15-45 minutes
Films can be live-action or animated.
Films should showcase any discipline of hunting with dogs, including upland, waterfowl, and tracking.
Submission Requirements:
Theme: All films must center on hunting with dogs, promoting the bond between dog and hunter, and may include themes of safety, conservation, and adventure.
Trailer/Short Clip: A 1-2 minute trailer or promotional short must be submitted alongside the full film.
File Format:
Minimum resolution: 1080p (1920 x 1080).
Accepted formats: MP4, MOV.
Frame rate: 24 fps or higher.
Audio: High-quality audio, synced to the video, with no excessive background noise.
Content: Films must be family-friendly and respectful of the hunting tradition. No graphic violence or inappropriate content will be accepted.
Subtitles: All films not in English must include English subtitles.
Original Content: Films must be the original work of the submitter. Any use of third-party music, footage, or materials must be properly licensed.
Rights: Filmmakers retain ownership of their films but grant the festival the right to use clips, trailers, and promotional materials for marketing and festival promotion.
Judging Rubric:
Films will be judged on a 100-point scale across the following criteria:

Creativity (25 points)

Unique storytelling techniques.
Innovative use of cinematography and editing.
Fresh perspectives on hunting with dogs.
Conservation Impact (25 points)

Showcasing sustainable hunting practices.
Raising awareness about conservation efforts.
Highlighting the importance of preserving wildlife and habitat.
Story Impact (25 points)

Emotional connection with the audience.
Strong narrative structure, character development (dogs and hunters).
Clear message that resonates with viewers.
Technical Quality (15 points)

Visual clarity and sharpness.
Sound quality (dialogue, effects, music).
Smooth transitions and editing.
Overall Impression (10 points)

Memorable impact of the film.
Viewer engagement and re-watchability.
Alignment with the festival's mission.
Submission Deadlines:
Submission Period: September 24, 2024 - December 31, 2024
Notification of Selections: January 30, 2025