Videos must be viewable, clearly heard and must be uploaded on-line.   Quicktime H.264 file format is highly recommended.  Several types/qualities of videos (Movie Maker, Windows Media, etc. files ending in .wmv, .mov, avi, .m4v) should upload.  However, only those in file format H.264 (higher definition/resolution) standard will meet the threshold of most major media outlets (such as Movie Cinemas, TV, etc.) for air time conversion.  Any videos not in High Definition or High Resolution can still enter the contest and be eligible for prizes/recognition.  However, if they do not meet the media outlet threshold for conversion – REEL ACTION can not guarantee mass media distribution. Not familiar with QuickTime H.264?  Don’t worry!  Step-by-step directions will guide you through the upload process.  Still unsure?  Here’s a tutorial.

Video File name MUST match the video title listed on entry form.  Any that do not, can not be matched to entry form and therefore, can not be entered. Also, any video titles that do not match the entry form can not be linked to each other, therefore, can not be entered.  Due to multiple entries with similar/same video and/or participant names; we strongly suggest listing the lead youth’s LAST name as part of the video file name so it can be more easily linked to the entry form and video title.  Finally, we also suggest that video titles are specific and unique (each year, several videos named “underage drinking” (or similar) have been submitted leading to confusion in matching videos with their proper creators).

Anything considered ‘inappropriate” will be disqualified. (examples include:  obscenities, nudity, vulgarity, anything that appears to promote underage drinking or drug use, etc.)

Copyright!  It’s the law!!!  We love popular music just like everyone does!  BUT, copyrights must be honored!  Use of copyrighted materials (such as popular music) is NOT PERMITTED without written permission of material’s owner.  It is the responsibility of the entrant and entrant sponsor to secure written permission needed for use of any copyrighted, trademarked or protected materials. If REEL ACTION suspects copyrighted/trademarked/protected materials of any type have been used in a submitted video, entrant will not be eligible for mass media distribution unless proof of permission is submitted at time of entry.  Written proof of permission to use any copyrighted/trademarked/protected materials must be submitted with video at time of entry by scanning and emailing it to jengle@sevencounties.org.  Proof must contain the name of the video (must match the name of video listed on the entry form), lead youth and adult sponsor names, name of copyrighted/protected material used in video and signature of authorized agent granting permission).

NOTE:  Regardless of any believed copyright exemptions, the rules of REEL ACTION REQUIRE written proof of permission (submitted at time of entry) for use of any copyrighted materials.  No exceptions!

That said, MANY copyright free music, visual and other material resources exist! Use your internet browser or talk to your media teacher at school for ideas!