How to get your Micro Budget Short Film into festivals

with Nathan Benham

Nathan Benham’s filmmaking journey began with frustration—tired of waiting for the right acting roles, he took matters into his own hands. He wrote and directed a short monologue for himself, a project that went on to screen at film festivals. That experience sparked a passion for creating his own work, leading Nathan to form a dedicated cast and crew team that grows stronger with each production in “How to get your Micro Budget Short Film into festivals”.

Funding Short Films on a Micro Budget

Financing short films can be challenging, but Nathan shares the practical strategies he’s used to fund his projects. From calling in favours to resourceful budgeting, he explains how to make professional-quality work without breaking the bank. His insights are especially useful for filmmakers balancing creativity with financial constraints.

Crafting Festival-Worthy Short Films

Nathan opens up about what makes a short film stand out on the festival circuit. He discusses the importance of engaging storytelling, high production value, and finding a unique angle that captures judges’ attention. He also touches on the difference between “arty” shorts that may alienate audiences and compelling films that resonate.

How to get your Micro Budget Short Film into festivals

Entering festivals isn’t just about making a great film—it’s about knowing how to position it. Nathan offers actionable tips on researching festivals, tailoring submissions, and avoiding common mistakes that cost time and money. His advice helps indie filmmakers increase their chances of acceptance and build momentum in their careers.

Lessons Learned & Future Goals

Reflecting on his journey, Nathan shares what he wishes he had known when starting out—from avoiding burnout to maintaining professional relationships. He also teases his plans for eventually making a feature film, marking the next big step in his creative evolution.

Interested in finding out more about Nathan – check out his Youtube Channel

Want to hear from another filmmaker about Short Films – check out this episode with Vincent Wrenn called How to Make a Successful Short Film