Nanlite and Nanlux have launched the third edition of Project Spark, inviting photographers and creators to submit their work under the theme “Contour.” This global competition encourages participants to explore the nuances of shapes and outlines in their creative projects.
NANLITE and their sister brand NANLUX have made a name for themselves with lights that range from portable RGB tubes to high-output fixtures built for film sets. Recent releases include the PavoTube II 6XR, a compact RGB tube with wireless DMX and pixel effects, and the FC-120C, a lightweight full-color LED spotlight aimed at on-the-go productions.
What is Project Spark?
Back in 2023, Nanlite and Nanlux launched Project Spark, a global creative effort to support visual storytellers. The idea was simple: help creators bring an original short film to life by giving them funding, gear, and a platform to share their work. Now in its third edition, the contest continues to look for new voices and encourage creative ways of using light and camera.
This year, there will be two categories, and two winners will be chosen from each category: Narrative Shorts and Experimental Shorts. Winners will be awarded up to $20,000 each for their projects, so get your submission in soon!
Producing from the Front
Your passion is film production. How and where to start? Learn from award winning producer Graham Ehlers Sheldon as he shares every step of the way on what it takes to produce quality content that people want to watch.
How to approach the theme
To guide participants, Nanlite has shared a conceptual take on this year’s theme, Contour. Rather than a technical definition, it reads more like a creative prompt – one that links light, form, and emotion in a way that’s open to interpretation, as expressed here:
First steps
To take part in Project Spark, the first step is to submit a detailed pitch for your short film. The competition is open to both narrative and experimental projects. Your submission should follow the specific guidelines provided and clearly outline your concept.
Once all entries are in, a panel of judges will select the finalists. If chosen, you’ll receive production funding, equipment support, and mentorship to help bring your film to life – from pre-production all the way through post.
The timeline for the entire project is from February 28th, 2025, to January 15th, 2026, but your submission must be entered by April 18th, 2025.
Documents required for your submission
The following documents should be handed in with your submission:
- Fill in the registration form on the event page of the Nanlite website
- Exposition for the submission (up to 200 words in English)
- Story synopsis (up to 100 words in English)
- Script outline (between 300 and 2000 words in English)
- No less than 10 reference video clips
- Entrant’s previous works
Once your entry has been accepted, you will need to provide the following:
- Complete Script
- Storyboard
- Project Proposal
- Production Budget Sheet
- Concept Poster
The timeline
Once submissions close, five projects will be shortlisted in each category – narrative and experimental. Shortlisted creators will then take part in an online interview, after which two finalists from each category will be selected. Finalists will be announced on May 31st via Nanlite’s social media channels, marking the official start of the production phase.
How to submit
You can register and submit all required materials through the online form on Nanlite’s website. For full details on rules and eligibility, visit the official guidelines page.
Are you planning to submit to Project Spark this year? What would make you take the leap and pitch a short film? Let us know in the comments!
