The Center for Creativity’s annual One Minute Film Festival is approaching its Oct. 27 submission deadline.

As the name implies, festival submissions must be 60 seconds or less. The festival is open to all Pitt students, faculty and staff regardless of prior experience. For interested participants, the necessary supplies are a camera — including a phone or rental from Hillman Library’s Media Equipment Lending Program — editing software and a free afternoon.

A minute-long film challenges filmmakers to convey an intriguing story or concept in only a short time. Erik Schuckers, C4C’s programming and communications manager, emphasized the key elements creators should focus on in their short film.

“A one-minute film leaves very little room for technique to do the work. What carries a film this short are a clear idea, voice and point of view, which is why a first-timer and an experienced filmmaker can take part side by side,” Schuckers said.

The festival offers complete creative freedom over idea, style and subject — the only constraint is the time limit. Schuckers said the skills acquired during the festival are transferable to general success as an undergraduate.

“One-minute films are about developing a clear idea and communicating it effectively. Those are also the skills you need to create a strong research summary or presentation, or pitch yourself for a job or an internship,” Schuckers said.

The festival provides an opportunity for both novice and experienced filmmakers. Nolan DuBois, the Film and Media Studies Student Lab Tutor and a winner of last year’s festival, appreciated the lack of expectation and time commitment.

“Students can make something they don’t have to worry about being graded on … It was nice that I didn’t have to spend weeks planning, shooting and editing,” DuBois said. “I was able to spend a day having fun with friends and won some money from it.”

Submissions will be shown at a public screening on Nov. 7 where community members from across campus will view each participants’ films. The festival’s winners will be determined by a board of judges, and the top three entries will receive $250, $150 and $100 accordingly.