FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: What equipment do I need to create my film?

Films must be shot and edited on a mobile device (phone or tablet).

Q: Do I need to use a mobile phone to film my submission?

Any mobile device will work, whether a mobile phone or tablet. Just make sure your film is filmed and edited on a mobile device to qualify.

Q: Does it matter what kind of fruit or vegetable I use?

No. You can use any kind and any amount of fruit or vegetables you have access to, as long as they are included in your film. They can be fresh, frozen, canned, dried, toy, illustrated, shown in artwork, signs, clothing, and/or jewelry. Let your creativity shine!

Q: How will winners be decided?

A panel of judges from different backgrounds including film/media and food justice will review submissions and vote based on a rubric judging your use of the required elements, storytelling, creativity, and technical aspects of your film.

Q: How will winners be notified?

Winners will hear from a Mosaic Film Experience representative by June 25, 2025.

Q: I've never made a film before. Can I still enter?

Absolutely! We welcome all skill levels. 

Q: What are the age limits to enter a film?

Entrants should be 10-18 years of age as of March 7, 2025.

Q: Can an adult help me make my film?

There are specific things adults may help with, see guidelines below:

For 10-12:

• An adult can provide basic technical supervision for safety and equipment handling.

• Adults can help with transportation and location scouting.

• An adult can explain mobile device functions or basic editing software.

• Adults cannot direct, write scripts, operate equipment, edit films or make creative decisions.

• Adults may serve as actors, and may take leading roles if needed.

• A parent or guardian must complete a parent/guardian consent form.

For 13-18:

• Adult involvement should be limited, primarily focused on safety and logistics.

• Adults may help transportation and location scouting.

• Technical support should be minimal and documented.

• Filmmaker(s) should handle all creative aspects of their films.

• Adults can serve as actors if needed, but shouldn't take lead creative roles.

• Equipment use and editing should be done solely by filmmaker(s).

All entries submitted without a completed and signed parent/guardian consent form will not be eligible for judging.

Q: How do I submit my film?

All films must be submitted on FilmFreeway.

Q: How long should my film be? 

Films must be 2-3 minutes in length (plus credits).

Q: What must I include in my film credits? 

Credits must include:

• Production crew (everyone involved with making the project)

• Mobile device project was filmed on

• Editing software used

• Music & sound effects (free or permission)

• Any music and sound effects used in your film must have copyright permission or be royalty free

• Stock and archival footage (if applicable)

• Art piece title (if applicable) & artist name

Q: What production roles should be credited? 

Credits for films entered should include any or all that apply: Director/Creator name, Writer, Producer, Editor, Production credits, Music credits, Actors.

Q: How do team submissions work? 

We welcome teams! Team submissions should select one representative as a contact. If the film is selected as a winner, one team member will represent the team at awards ceremony.

Q: How is prize money handled for team entries?

Winning films will be awarded $1,000, to be divided amongst filmmaking teams. Division of prize money is the responsibility of team members and their parents/guardian.

Q: How will my film be used?

Selected films may be shared on YouTube, and other social media platforms, and awards ceremony. Winners and their parent/guardian will be notified of any additional use of their film not already outlined in the rules and regulations by the Mosaic Film Experience or Newman’s Own Foundation. Read the rules and regulations here.

Q: Why do I need a location release form? 

A location release form protects both you and the property owner when filming at any location outside your home or school. It gives you written permission to film there and use the footage in your project. Without it, the property owner could later object to how their property appears in your film or prevent you from showing it.

Q: When do I need to get a location release? 

You need one whenever you film at any private property - including stores, homes, businesses, or private outdoor spaces. This includes both interior and exterior shots. You generally don't need one for public spaces like streets or parks, but always check local filming regulations. Download the location release form here.

Q: Why do I need a talent release form? 

A talent release form protects everyone involved in your film by clearly documenting that people have given permission to appear in your project. It prevents issues later if someone changes their mind about being in the film and tries to prevent you from using the footage.

Q: When should I use a talent release?

Anyone appearing in your film must sign a release: actors, interview subjects, and even background performers if they are recognizable. For anyone under 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign. Even if filming friends or family, it's good practice to get releases signed. Download talent release form here.

Q: I have a disability. Can an adult help me?

Yes. Nourishing Narratives celebrates the diversity of youth’s experiences and perspectives. Students with disabilities are encouraged to participate! Share the adult support you received on the form here.

Q: Is there a fee to enter?

There is no fee to enter. Nourishing Narratives invites any young filmmaker to make their voices heard.