Atlanta Docufest Submissions

All films are carefully reviewed by a panel of passionate documentary filmmakers, curators, and festival staff. We value every submission and treat your work with the same respect and attention we'd want for our own.

Atlanta Docufest welcomes compelling documentary films of all lengths and styles:  features, shorts, hybrid docs, experimental, and animated nonfiction films.

We only accept online screeners via FilmFreeway for preview purposes.

 Docs Shorts and Features are Accepted. Shorts are under 45 minutes.  

No premiere status is required. Films that have screened elsewhere or are available online are eligible.

All films must be in English or include English subtitles.

Works-in-progress are accepted, but please note what changes are expected before completion.

Multiple entries are allowed, but each must be submitted with a separate entry fee.

We can only offer entry fee waivers to festival alumni. If you are an alumni with a new project you would like to enter, please email us with the subject line Docufest alumni fee waiver 

Please see our FilmFreeway page for entry fees and deadlines. Submission fees are non-refundable.

Programming decisions are made by the festival directors and our selection committee. Filmmakers will be notified of acceptance by email. We do not pay screening or rental fees for submitted work that is programmed. We will notify you via FilmFreeway.  If selected, your final exhibition file must be delivered to us at least two weeks prior to the festival.

Atlanta Docufest honors outstanding documentary films and filmmakers with our signature custom crystal trophies, awarded in the following core categories:

Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Documentary
Best Local Documentary
Best Student Documentary
Best Director
Jury Award
Audience Choice Award

Selected winners will receive a one-of-a-kind crystal award and featured recognition across our platforms.

Selected films may also be considered for inclusion on - FestFlix.tv - our curated indie streaming platform featuring standout films from the Atlanta Film Series. Participation is optional and offered only with full filmmaker approval. This is a great opportunity to gain additional exposure and reach new audiences beyond the festival.

We’re proud to celebrate powerful stories and the filmmakers behind them. Winning an award at Atlanta Docufest is more than a trophy—it’s a platform

View the awards page.

Feel free to email us if you would like confirmation of entry.