With 39 days left in the challenge, Digi60 filmmakers came together on Sunday for the Connect Networking social to talk shop, meet new faces, and solidify vital connections. With an onslaught of original films well underway under this year’s prompt, Reframe, attendees gathered to share progress, swap advice, and support one another in the push past the finish line.
From drafted stories and completed scripts to secured locations and completed casting calls, the room was buzzing with the distinct energy of projects rapidly taking shape.
Taking on New Roles and Crossing Milestones
Whether taking the leap into director’s chair or building a project from scratch, attendees shared how they are navigating new creative frontiers this season.
For Sebastian Ribeiro, a trained photographer, this year marks his first official foray into the Digi60 challenge. After stepping into filmmaking through independent events around Ottawa,
Sebastian finished his script and assembled a near-complete crew through personal referrals and networking at Digi60’s launch event.
"I finished the script [and] I have pretty much all the crew that I need," Ribeiro shared during the event. While moving into production, he noted that stepping into casting calls for the first time brings its own set of hurdles: "I've never made a casting call before, so it’s a little bit intimidating. But I should be finding the rest of the cast pretty soon, and then get on with the rest of the schedule."
Other registrants echoed similar steps in growth, with photographers stepping up to make their first short films, actors transitioning into producing and directing, and filmmakers actively seeking out additional crew in key technical departments—particularly sound and lighting.
Reconnecting with the Digi60 Community
Beyond fresh faces, the Connect event was a welcome home for returning community members. Past filmmakers reconnected with peers they hadn’t seen in years, highlighting the deep-rooted relationships that define the Ottawa indie film scene.
For filmmaker Steve Koster, returning to Digi60 this year marks his first entry in a decade. Reflecting on his progress, Steve shared that he is right on track to finish shooting by the end of October with a tight, efficient production pipeline in place.
"So far, [I'm] kind of hitting the goals," Koster noted. "[I] want to be done filming by the end of October, and so far kind of on track for that. The script is all done, now I’m kind of gathering the last few members and finding a day that works for everyone to shoot."
When asked about managing scope when returning after a break, Koster emphasized keeping the process focused and manageable: "Especially after 10 years, this feels like I'm happy with the team I've assembled. Seven minutes—it can be [a huge production], but you can also come up with something focused."
Key Takeaways for the Remaining 39 Days
As teams head into production, two major insights resonated throughout Sunday's conversations:
Finishing over perfection: When asked what advice they would offer filmmakers halfway through the deadline window, Digi60 alumni Riley Wang kept it simple: "Finishing is more important than being perfect." At its core, Digi60 is a space designed for growth, learning, and trying new things—not overcomplicating the creative process.
The magic of the live theatrical experience: While digital distribution has its place, nothing replaces the feeling of gathering together in a room. As Koster reflected on past festivals: "When you see the film play on the main screen, and 300 people just watching that film at the same time... it's totally different than uploading it to YouTube."
Need Crew or Looking to Connect?
With production schedules heating up across the city, several teams are still looking for crew members in lighting and sound. If you’re looking to join a team, lend a hand on set, or collaborate on an upcoming Digi60 short:
Jump onto the Digi60 Discord server to connect with creators and jump in on active callouts.
Reach out directly via our community channels to offer your skills or find last-minute collaborators.
Keep pushing, keep shooting, and we can’t wait to see your stories come to life on the big screen!
