Creating The TriFilm Society

Since 2009 I’ve been organizing networking events for local film professionals. The events have been free for attendees, and I’ve donated countless hours organizing and promoting these opportunities. That’s because it makes me really happy.

Known as #TriFilm, these socials grew out of a need to feel more connected to like-minded people in my area. I was working on Abandoned Allies and meeting really cool people — few of whom knew one another. We had about 20 people at the first social, where I tweeted about it via SMS on my Blackberry Pearl. (That seems so antiquated now.)

Today these TriFilm socials are a little more grown up. They’re a collaborative effort with local businesses who have a stake in the industry here. Each social sells out rapidly and the house is always perfectly packed.

These networking events have been very well received. People constantly tell me thank you, and ask about the next one. The people who attend are making new connections, finding resources to improve their craft, and making some awesome films as a result.

In my humble opinion, that ain’t too shabby.

Yet I have this feeling that we can do more.

When people offer suggestions or ask about what TriFilm is doing next, I get this little twinge of pain because it’s a struggle to meet current demands. I have this grande vision and I’m working towards it. But when there’s no budget, things move slowly.

For the past five years, that’s been just fine. I am a fan of slow, organic growth because it’s strategic. But now it seems people want more, demand is growing, and it’s time to ante up. This is why I’m taking #TriFilm to the next level. You guys requested it.

What started in 2009 will now become The TriFilm Society. 

This means a few things are going to change, and I hope you all are on board. I’ll do my best to explain why these changes are happening. More specifically, I’ll explain what it means for you.

I welcome any suggestions and feedback because this is for you. I can’t do this without your input. You’re the reason I started TriFilm so many years ago, and you’re the reason I continue to serve in this capacity. So please tell me what’s on your mind.

1. TriFilm Society Memberships

There was previously no way to join TriFilm because there was no formal organization. That will change. You will now be able to join the official TriFilm Society as a paid member. I’m still working out the membership levels and what they will cost (monthly or annually).

No matter the cost of the memberships, I intend to provide an immense value at each level.Those dues will help the organization grow strategically so that even more awesome things can support your career. TriFilm will be a professional organization that serves its members, so your voice will be heard when you speak up.

2. Unique Value

There are a lot of respected organizations in the area. I am a fan of these professional organizations and appreciate what they’re doing for our community. There are also a number of independent film groups, and the members are doing such great work. My goal is not to create competition among any of these existing groups.

So why would I put effort in making this an official film society when so many great groups already exist? Great question. There’s a gap left by these awesome organizations. There are needs not being met.

The TriFilm Society will meet the unique needs of local film professionals in may ways. It will offer value that can’t be found anywhere else. It will be unlike anything else.

The industry is changing rapidly and we must be ready to respond to the needs of our audiences and clients. This organization will give you the tools you need to improve your craft. You’ll be supported in making professional films and videos, and reap the financial rewards of doing a great job. You’ll have a chance to find resources, share work with your peers, and find jobs.

As my progress on building The TriFilm Society continues, I’ll provide more details on the unique value provided to members.

3. Quarterly Socials

The socials are the reason that TriFilm started in 2009, so they will remain an important part of the society. I intend to offer a social each quarter, for a total of four socials each year.

I’ve already selected dates for 2015 and have started finding collaborative partners (businesses willing to host by providing a location and refreshments). The first social is coming together nicely and I hope to announce the date and location in January.

For the past five years these socials have been free and open to the public. That has always been important to me because filmmaking is an expensive trade, and a collaborative art form requiring many kinds of talent. Moving forward, however, these socials may not remain 100% free. It’s simply not a sustainable way to grow.

So at some point next year, we may start charging for attendance. There are numerous reasons to do so, one of which is maintaining the professionalism of these socials. They take a lot of time, effort, energy, and resources to put together. The nominal fee you pay for attending would help a lot.

Again, this is why I need your input. I want these socials to remain affordable, professional, and valuable. To do that, I need your thoughts on what you’d be willing to pay for a great networking opportunity with film professionals in your area. If you’re passionate about keeping them free then by all means share that opinion, too. I need to hear from you.

4. Rebranding TriFilm

My vision for the new brand is one that makes all members really proud. It makes you feel professional, polished, and important. It reeks of intelligent design. (Unlike the current “logo” that took me two minutes to make. I’ve always cringed using it.)

You will see this new brand emerge in 2015. There will be a new logo and website, among other things. It’s going to be awesome.

Like I’ve mentioned before, I want your feedback. When a new look is ready for review, I’ll share it here and ask your thoughts. Please share them! I want this to represent you well.

5. More Collaborations

Filmmaking is a collaborative art/business. A film society should be collaborative as well.

Previous socials have been collaborations with local businesses, each of which had a vested interest in serving the community. We’ve worked with businesses like Trailblazer Studios, Poyner Spruill, filmSPARK, and Myriad Media. I’m incredibly grateful for their hospitality and generosity. (Thank you all!)

We also had a professional photographer, Alex Boerner, capture our most recent social. It was the first time I had that kind of support. It was absolutely amazing. (Thank you, Alex!)

In 2015, more collaborations are needed. This vision I have requires a lot of support from local professionals.

We need help with things like:

• Event space
• Event planners
• Photographers
• Writers / bloggers
• Social media pros
• Graphic designers
• Filmmakers

If you know people who want to get involved, please share this post and use the comments section to start a conversation about it. I’d be most grateful because this society is growing quickly! It’s a lot to handle by myself. Right now these are volunteer opportunities; however, I hope one day they grow into paid positions.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

The reason I work on TriFilm is to support my film community. This was born out of my own struggles in making my first film, and all of the kind support that came from so many great people. This has been my way of giving back — and it seems people enjoy and appreciate those efforts, which is why I’ve continued doing it.

You are very important to me. I want you to succeed. I have a vision for growing TriFilm to help you improve your craft, meet people who can help bring your vision to life, and receive financial reward for your passionate efforts.

Please take a minute to share your thoughts. I’d love to know what you think of these things, and what you need most from an organization supporting you. This can’t be done without you, my friend.

Use the comments section below to share what’s on your mind!

PS: TriFilm isn’t the only thing I’m working on. Sign up for free monthly emails below to get updates on all the things I’m passionate about and, more specifically, how it affects you. They include details about stuff I won’t share anywhere else online.