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FAQs
Q: How do I output my videos so that they are under 100 MB?
A: In FCP, go to file, export Quicktime conversion, under options - setting - compression choose H.264 file. Under size, try limiting the dimensions (try 640x480 for 4:3 (square) SD, or NTSC 720x480 16:9 (letterbox) for HD.)
Q: How do I caption my video?
A: It's easy. There's several different options and programs to create your text, font size, shadows and color. White and yellow text works best. You can create highlighted bars as a background, use shadow or highlights to offset text - anything creative as long as it's easy to read. For more tips and online tutorials, do an internet search with the search terms "FCP subtitles" (or whatever editing program you are using.)
Q: What's the difference between subtitles and captions?
A: Subtitles simply translates between two spoken languages. Captions are subtitles that also include audio descriptors for deaf and hard of hearing viewers. Captions include audio information such as [phone rings], use of musical notes indicating music or describing noises that happen off camera. A good test is to turn your sound off while testing your film to see if your captions are providing all of the audio information. You can learn more by searching "captioning style guide" on the internet, or watching closed captions on your television.
Q: Why do I need to caption my film?
A: There are nearly 30 million deaf and hard of hearing Americans, most of whom don't have full access to entertainment, media and online video information. This contest is helping to create awareness about the importance of captioning through a fun and creative outlet while encouraging filmmakers from all backgrounds to make great films that are accessible.
Q: What if I want to use my own music?
A: That's great! If you win, you will have to sign a release stating you own all the rights giving permission for the music to be used.
Q: What if I want to use a film I already made? Can I use this for other things?
A: You can use any footage you have the rights to, as long as it satisfies the rules of including "see what I'm saying" in the video, has captions, is family friendly and includes the Sprint logo at the beginning of the film. You maintain ownership of your film and can use it any way you like - you're just giving us permission to use it as well. If your video includes the "See What I'm Saying" song by Powder, you will have to obtain permission to use it for any other purpose.
Q. What about obtaining clearances?
A. The winners will have to sign a release saying that they own the rights to all of the footage and music (if any original music is used) as well as permission for any actors/personal appearances. The winners must state that the work is their own and doesn't infringe upon any other rights. The films must fully qualify and be cleared in order to win. If in doubt, please ask and we'll try to get back to you in a timely manner.
A: You can use any footage you have the rights to, as long as it satisfies the rules of including "see what I'm saying" in the video, has captions, is family friendly and includes the Sprint logo at the beginning of the film. You maintain ownership of your film and can use it any way you like - you're just giving us permission to use it as well. If your video includes the "See What I'm Saying" song by Powder, you will have to obtain permission to use it for any other purpose.
Q. What about obtaining clearances?
A. The winners will have to sign a release saying that they own the rights to all of the footage and music (if any original music is used) as well as permission for any actors/personal appearances. The winners must state that the work is their own and doesn't infringe upon any other rights. The films must fully qualify and be cleared in order to win. If in doubt, please ask and we'll try to get back to you in a timely manner.
Q: I uploaded my video but I don't see it.
A: The administrators have to approve each video to make sure it fits within the contest rules. Please be patient as it may take up to two days to be approved. Make sure that your video follows all of the rules (that it is family friendly, under 3 minutes, captioned in English and includes the line "see what I'm saying." See the rules page for more details.) Also check to make sure your file size is under 100 MB.
Q: I have a specific question and I don't see the answer anywhere on the website.
A: You can email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we will get back to you as soon as possible.