This track gives participants many of the skills needed to produce an indie narrative or documentary film. Learn from pros who are actively working and setting trends in the Bay Area independent film community.

Purchase the entire track and save:
$280 SFFS members (save $50)/$350 general (save $70)

Take the following classes:


The Craft of Producing
Today’s film market requires independent producers to have a marketing and distribution plan that goes beyond merely applying to festivals. A.D. Liano will help you conceptualize and implement marketing strategies that will help assure a film release that meets your goals. Read more...

The Legal Framework for Your Film, Video or Business
This course will unravel many of the business considerations that filmmakers must be aware of when starting their project. Topics include forming a legal entity, insurance, accounting, and the nature of contracts and funding issues related to grants, loans and investments. Read more...

Filmmaking and the Law
Gain knowledge of how to secure and keep usage rights for subjects, interviewees, events and archival materials. Special attention will be paid to copyright registration and rights of privacy formalities, fair use, Creative Commons licenses and distribution agreements. Read more...

Grant Writing Essentials
Learn how to craft an effective blueprint proposal for your project that can be adapted for multiple applications. Discover how to create a compelling logline, background, synopsis, treatment, fundraising strategy, marketing and distribution plan, key personnel bios and project status reports. Read more...

Obtaining and Clearing Music Rights for Film, Video and the Internet
This seminar reveals the secrets to content acquisition and the intricacies of music rights and fair use. The basic structure of copyright law will be covered, as well as the process of acquiring new music, gaining the right to use existing music and more. Read more...

Scheduling and Budgeting for Motion Pictures
Conducting a screenplay budget breakdown from the elements in your script is an essential process that will improve your chances of getting it produced. Break down your script to identify easy dollar-saving fixes that won’t adversely effect overall quality. Read more...

Publicity and Marketing for Filmmakers
Learn from San Francisco International Film Festival insiders how to get the most out of your festival experience and utilize fests as platforms to market and publicize your films. Get tips on preparing to attend a festival with or without a film, preparing a press kit and stills, hiring a publicist and much more. Read more...

The Fundraising House Party: How to Party with a Purpose and Raise Money for Your Film
House parties are a powerful and flexible way to inspire individuals to donate to your project. Learn how to harness this great tool to fundraise for your project. Draw on the deep experience of author/consultant Morrie Warshawski. Read more...