About your film

Q: I have a great idea for a film about the causes of climate change. Will it win?
A: The judges will give top marks to inspirational films that encourage people to become more climate friendly, not those which use scare tactics or just provide information on climate change. You’ll need to decide for yourself whether your idea fits our criteria.

Q: I’m more interested in wildlife protection rather than just climate change. It’s a really important issue and I want people to take action. Can I submit a film?
A: If you’re film is about protecting wildlife from the threat of climate change, and if you’re creative and entertaining, then we’d love to see it. But don’t forget the climate bit.

Q: Can I submit a film about recycling?
A: This competition is for actions we can take to combat climate change. If your film can inspire people to recycle – and if it makes the link between recycling and climate change – then we’d love to receive your entry.

Q. Where can I find advice on the type of camera to use and where to find out about editing?
A: You can use any type of camera you like to submit to Green Shoots. You’ll find lots of websites out there giving you guidance on shooting, editing and equipment – and take a look at Making Your Film for some hints and tips.

About the application process

Q: Can I submit more than one film?
A: There is no limit to the number of films you can submit. Let your creativity flow.

Q: When will I hear if I’ve won?
A: We’ll inform the winner within 14 days of judging. We’ll also post the outcome on the SkyCast Green Shoots site.

Q: If I win, will you use the file I uploaded, or will I have to make a broadcast quality copy of my film?
A: We’ll use the copy you submitted… so make sure it’s exactly the way you want it.

Q: How do I upload?
A: Go to SkyCast and follow the instructions. You’ll need to register with a username and password, and then follow the links to upload your film. Once the upload is successful, remember to tag it greenshoots – that’s how you enter the competition.

Q: How do I know you’ve received my film?
A: When your film is uploaded to SkyCast, you’ll get an automatic email telling you the upload was successful. Within a few weeks, you’ll get a second email confirming you’ve entered the competition. If two weeks go by with no contact from us, go back to your upload and re-tag it greenshoots.

Q: I’d like to submit my film to another competition I’ve heard about too – is that OK?
A: If you are the winner, Sky will need exclusive rights to show your film in the UK. This means that you can’t enter Green Shoots and another film competition at the same time. If you’re not the winner, you can enter for another competition once we’ve let you know.

Q: I tried to apply but SkyCast has rejected my film because they are “concerned it may carry a commercial message”. What can I do?
A: Look through it carefully to see if you promote particular products or services – or if you are working for a commercial organisation and your logo is featured on the film. Can you re-cut your film and submit it again? Please read SkyCast’s Usage Policy for details of what constitutes a commercial message.

About the competition

Q: Who runs this competition?
A: The promoter is British Sky Broadcasting Limited.

Q: Is this a one-off, or will you run the competition again?
A: The Green Shoots competition is a unique opportunity to make a difference to millions of Sky viewers. Sky has no current plans to run the competition again – so get started on that film now! Sky is, however, looking at all sorts of ways to engage with viewers about climate change, so you never know what’s next.

About you

Q: I’m outside the UK – can I enter?
A: Sorry, only residents of the UK and Republic of Ireland can enter the competition.

Q. Can I make a film using examples from outside the UK? It means that some of the shooting would take place abroad.
A: You can shoot the film anywhere you like – but you must be a resident of the UK or ROI to enter.

Q: I’m under 13. Can someone enter for me?
A: If you’re under 13 you can’t enter, but you can make a film and your parents, or other adult, can submit it on your behalf. However, they will be the official entrant.

Q. Can I make a film with my best mate and submit it as a pair?
A: One person has to be the official applicant. So whilst you can submit a team effort, you’ll have to decide who’s the official entrant and will take the glory.

About the prize

Q: Where will my film be shown?
A: The winning short film will be shown on Sky TV in 2008. Details will follow.

Q: If I win, will you want me to go on a publicity tour?
A: We might want you to participate in publicity around the competition. Don’t worry: it’s unlikely to be a worldwide tour.

Have we answered your question? If not, please see the SkyCast FAQs for some more answers.

If you’re still unsure once you’ve read both sets of FAQs, you’ll find some useful email addresses on the SkyCast website.