Human Interest Feature *New*

Shine a light on people with stories worth sharing. Based on a given prompt, this category highlights individuals or groups whose personal experiences, passions, or challenges leave a lasting impact. Whether heartwarming, inspiring, or emotional, these stories should connect with viewers and showcase strong character-driven storytelling. Entries must include interviews, b-roll, natural sound, voiceovers, and reporter stand-ups. Entry Time Limit: 3 minutes or less | Max team size: 4 students

School & Community Feature *New*

Shine a light on what makes your school or community unique. Based on a given prompt, this category focuses on local events, traditions, issues, or programs tied to your campus or the surrounding area. These stories should go beyond the basics to offer context, connection, and meaning. Use strong visuals and a full storytelling package—including interviews, b-roll, natural sound, voiceovers, and reporter stand-ups. Entry Time Limit: 3 minutes or less | Max team size: 4 students

News Story

Deliver the facts with clarity and impact. This category challenges students to create a timely, fact-based story based on a given prompt. Stories must include interviews, b-roll, natural sound, voiceovers, and reporter stand-ups, and should answer the who, what, when, where, why, and how. The goal is to inform your audience with accuracy and purpose. Entry Time Limit: 2 minutes or less | Max team size: 4 students

Short Film

Craft a complete cinematic story from start to finish. Based on a given prompt, this category is open to original short films in any genre or format, including documentary, live-action, and animation. Entries must include a clear beginning, middle, and end, with strong structure, pacing, and visual storytelling. Title graphic and credits are required and count toward the total runtime. Entry Time Limit: 3 minutes or less | Max team size: 6 students

Commercial

Sell it with style. Use a given prompt to develop a 30-second promotional video for an original product, service, brand, or concept. The idea must be created by the student team and not based on any existing name brand. You may promote fictional products, school events, clubs, fundraisers, or even small, locally owned businesses (with permission). Entries may include live action, animation, or graphics but must deliver a message that’s clear, creative, and compelling. Entry Time Limit: Exactly 30 seconds | Max team size: 6 students

PSA

Make an impact in 30 seconds. Based on a given prompt, students will create a clear, creative message about a current societal issue. Each PSA must include a statement of the issue, a supporting statistic, and a strong call to action. Entries may use live action, animation, or graphics to engage and inform the audience. Entry Time Limit: Exactly 30 seconds | Max team size: 6 students