Folkestone Documentary Festival Filmmaking Challenge 2026
Do you have an idea for a short documentary film?
Are you based in Kent?
Do you have an idea for a short documentary film?
Now’s your chance to pick up a camera and bring your idea to life with an opportunity to have your film seen by industry insiders and screened at Folkestone Documentary Festival in October.
Folkestone Documentary Festival Filmmaking Challenge is facilitated in partnership with Screen South and Klip Films and is open to filmmakers of all ages and backgrounds including schools, colleges, community groups and all aspiring filmmakers.
Films must be documentary in form, no longer than five minutes and made by Kent-based people about Kent-based stories.
There are very few rules; you can shoot on any camera and participants are encouraged to film on their phone to keep the process simple and inclusive. There are two prizes - one for Best Film & one for Best Environmental Film.
The deadline for submissions is Monday 21 September.
ARE YOU UP FOR THE CHALLENGE?
Chasing the Cheap Needle by Leah Thorn. Best Environmental Film 2025
Over the summer, Screen South will be hosting a series of free workshops to equip filmmakers with the basics to shoot and edit a short documentary film and there are opportunities to network, exchange ideas and find crew via the dedicated Facebook Group.
Mon 15 June, 12:30-13:30, online
Intro to the Filmmaking Challenge webinar
An informal online opportunity to meet the team, hear more about how the challenge works and find out what kind of films we’re looking for. We’ll talk through the timeline, the submission process and share ideas about how to find a strong documentary story close to home. There’ll be plenty of opportunity to ask questions, however big or small!
Sign up here
Weds 8 July, 18:00-20:00, Screen South
Meet the Makers
Three shortlisted filmmakers from previous years will screen their films and talk honestly about their process from first ideas and filming challenges to editing and finding the heart of the story. Expect practical advice, behind-the-scenes insights and reassurance that great documentaries can come from simple ideas and limited resources. Followed by a Q&A and an opportunity for 1-2-1 chats.
Sign up here
Weds 15 July, 18:00-20:00, Screen South
Film It on Your Phone!
A practical, hands-on workshop exploring how to shoot and edit a compelling short doc using your smartphone. We’ll cover framing, sound, interviews, simple editing techniques and how to make the most of the equipment you already have in your pocket. Perfect for beginners or anyone wanting to build confidence and keep the filmmaking process simple and accessible.
Sign up here
Weds 22 July, 18:00-20:00, Screen South
Production Workshop
An introduction to the Screen South camera and sound kit with an opportunity to get hands-on experience using professional filmmaking equipment in a relaxed and supportive environment. We’ll cover the basics of cameras, microphones and recording good quality sound, as well as offering advice and troubleshooting about story development, location, editing and working in teams. A great opportunity to build confidence, test ideas and get tailored guidance before you start shooting your film.
Sign up here
Full information about the Filmmaking Challenge can be found at website
