Atlanta Shortsfest Submissions

Atlanta Shortsfest 2027 Deadlines:

June 1, 2026 - Opening Date 

July 31, 2026 - July Early Deadline 

August 31, 2026 - August Early Deadline 

September 30, 2026 - September Early Deadline 

October 31, 2026 - October Regular Deadline 

November 30, 2026 - November Regular Deadline 

December 31, 2026 - December Regular Deadline 

January 31, 2027 - January Late Deadline 

February 20, 2027 - February Late Deadline 

March 15, 2027 - March Late Deadline 

April 9, 2027 - Final Deadline 

April 12, 2027 - Notification Date 

May 14-16, 2027 - Event Date

Categories:

Made in Georgia Short 

Narrative Short 

Documentary Short 

Comedy Short 

Dark Comedy 

Dramedy Short 

Horror / Thriller Short 

Sci-Fi Short 

Action Short 

Animated Short 

Experimental Short 

LGBTQ+ Short 

Music Video 

Micro Short (under 4 min.) 

Click the FilmFreeway link for entry fees, or click here to visit our page

Submit all films through FilmFreeway with a secure online screener.

We accept short films of all genres and styles under 40 minutes.

Previously screened or online films are welcome to submit.

Films made in Georgia or by Georgia filmmakers will be considered for Best Local Film.

Entry fees are non-refundable.

All selected filmmakers will be notified via FilmFreeway. Please confirm your participation promptly.

Final files and promotional materials must be submitted at least two weeks before the event. 

We do not pay rental fees for submitted work that is programmed.

All winners of Atlanta Shortsfest are announced live during the closing events. Winners will receive a crystal trophy to celebrate their achievement.

Best Short Film
Top honor of the festival, awarded to the standout short across all categories.
Best Director
Recognizes a filmmaker whose vision and craft elevated the entire film.
Best Local Film
Presented to a short made by a Georgia-based filmmaker or filmed in Georgia.
Best Comedy Short
Celebrates the short film that delivers strong laughs, sharp writing, and great timing.
Best Drama Short
Recognizes the short film that delivers a strong, character-driven story with emotional depth and compelling performances.
Best Horror Short
Recognizes the most effective and memorable horror short.
Best Concept
For a short that brought a strong and original idea to life.
Impact Award
Given to the film that made a strong impression through story, tone, or emotion.
Innovative Vision
Awarded to a film that took creative risks or used unique storytelling or visual techniques.
Emerging Filmmaker
Honors a new voice in short-form filmmaking with clear talent and potential.
Jury Award
Selected by the festival jury, this award recognizes a film that stood out for its overall strength in storytelling, craft, and execution.
Audience Choice Award
Chosen by viewers during the festival. This award goes to the film that made the biggest impression on the crowd

Entry fee waivers are only offered to festival alumni. If you screened with us before, contact us for a fee waiver code.