With virtual events taking over after covid, learning how to host a virtual film festival has become essential. Here are 5 tips to hosting your successful virtual film festival
- Selecting a streaming service. Many CFF’s use common video-hosting services like YouTube, Ustream, and Vimeo. Another option is to use a dedicated online event platform such as Filmocracy, Eventbrite or 360vxn that allows organizers a lot more flexibility in designing their event.
- Choose the right platform. Make sure that the platform is easy to use and navigate, as well as customizable and able to easily add new features. Working with Filmocracy for example would make sure the UI/UX design looks appropriate, ensure a clear VOD theatre, a networking room and any other feature you need.
- Be aware of your partners’ needs. You may have a clear vision for what it means for your virtual film festival to succeed, but make sure that your partners do not feel as though their needs are being overlooked. Be clearabout what information and resources are required from them, as well as how often it is needed (daily? weekly? etc.),
- Be very clear on the price of the ticket. Asking someone to pay $15 for an event they can’t be there in person to enjoy is a big ask. If you charge too much, people will not attend – and if you charge too little, people will also not attend. This fee should be reasonable for your audience and worth their time investment (at least not more than any other film festival).
- Good communication is essential. You want to make sure all of your participants know what’s going on and when they can expect to receive their prizes. In addition, it’s important to keep them updated on any changes in the planning stages of your event so they have time to prepare for it as well as promote their films before the deadline arrives.