Membership Frequently Asked Questions


I. General Info
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What does Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition do?

A trade association that helps our members make films and help earn profit from those films. In addition,
we offer grants, workshops, and host a film festival. We also set industry standards, lobby for legislation and
opportunities that benefits our members and educate the public about our industry.

Does Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition have a website?

Yes! Our official website is http://www.blackandlatinofilm.com.
We also are on Facebook: Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition and Twitter: @BlackLatinoFilm

Does Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition have an email list?

Yes! To be added to the e-mail list, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


II. Membership
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What do I have to do to be considered an official member of Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition?

Professional BLFC members are required to pay $97 per year in dues. Student members are required to
pay $35 each year. We have no requirements on the number of meetings you must attend however, to gain
the most out of your membership you should be as involved as possible.


As a member of Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition, what will I be doing?

Make Movies! As many as you want. Choose from every step from writing screenplays, acting, or directing
to operating camera or lights etc. Change the game! BLFC also give you the chance to impact the future of
indie film making, through lobbing efforts, PSAs and collaborations.


Do I need experience in filming/acting/writing to have fun BLFC?

Not at all, BLFC gives you lots of opportunities to learn while having a great time in Black and Latino Filmmaker’s
Coalition. Every film needs people to brainstorm ideas, carry equipment, hold lights, make food
runs, and other such things. Also, there are plenty of parties, screenings and red carpets where all we do is
have fun.

How much time do I have to commit to Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition?

Go at your own pace do as much or little you want. The more time you spend involved with the BLFC the
more fun, experience and money you can make. As long are your dues are paid in full you are a member.

Do I get any perks for being a member?

Discounts to training, workshops, seminars, film festivals, red carpets and the link. You also can apply for
access to Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition’s equipment, including cameras, costumes, lights, microphones,
props, etc. You also get a Spot Light article on BLFC website. The most important benefit, though, is
that you get access to the help, ideas, and opinions of your fellow BLFC members.


III. Meetings
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When, where, and how often does Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition meet?

Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition holds official meetings once a every two months on the last
Thursday at 6:30 p.m. Subcommittees may schedule meeting as needed.

What if I can’t make the meetings or arrive late?

We understand your busy and life is hectic. And honestly, some folk just don’t like meetings. Make it when
and if you can, you will not get kicked out, but you will might out on lots of fun and opportunities!


What is the typical structure of a Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition meeting?

This is just a basic outline of a typical meeting.


1. Welcome and Ice Breaker
We begin each meeting with food and drink a great warm-up exercise to help members get acquainted
with each other and the resources they have available to them.

2. BLFC Updates
Updates on Film Assist Grant, Brooklyn Indie House film festival and BLFC workshops and classes.

3. Industry News
Upcoming screenings, film/video contests, film festivals, updates to the website, new equipment, available

4. Special Presentation
A short presentation on various film related topics such as: directing, auditions and film distribution.

5. Pitches, Short Films, and Trailers
Pitch your project and gain support, screen your work in progress or next blockbuster trailer. Time is
limited 15 minutes.

6. Meeting Closes
Our meetings end promptly at 8pm. Then it is off to catch a movie, grab a bite to eat, or hit an industry
party.

More Reasons to Join

Education
Workshops and seminars, monthly newsletters and other educational resources and tools.

Competitive Edge
BLFC stays on top of what's going ion the industry, Therefore, your membership will allow you to keep abreast of industry trends, changes, and events.

Legislation and Lobbying
BLFC represent the collective voice of Black and Latino filmmakers and acts as  the medium between government and the industry. As a member of our trade association, you would benefit from the representation and promotion of interests the association works for on behalf of our members.

Networking
BLFC meetings, workshops and seminars provide an environment where like-minded business professionals can network and make valuable contacts. Members who are young in their career can also seek the advice and experience of seasoned professionals and lucrative job opportunities can often be found.

Special Offers and Discounts
BLFC provides members with special offers and discounts on things such as workshops,equipment rentals, production and post-production conferences, trade shows, and other special industry events.

BLFC Member Spotlight

Jonathan Fernandez

 

Jonathan Fernandez known also as John Renna is a native New Yorker currently working on his newest  directorial project entitled “ Misfits & Scoundrels”. A graduate  of St. John’s University with a bachelor’s degree in Television and Film  he has started his own film production company called Natural Bourne Citizens to showcase his art style.  First with documentaries about his alma-mater to short films most recently Dark Days: The Motion Picture a short film about trying to solve the mystery of his lost memories.
 
To improve his craft he constantly  works on television and film productions across New York City in grip and electric departments and as a  stage manager to learn different aspects of the television industry beyond the creative side. In doing so, he hopes to have better mindset on how the industry works and to become a more team oriented leader.

 

Jonathan has received the Film Assist Grant for "Misfits & Scoundrels" The grant gives production crew and resources to members of the Black and Latino Filmmaker’s Coalition.