Austin Film Festival Tips for Screenwriters: How to Make the Most of Your Experience

As screenwriters, we spend SO much time alone with our stories, characters, and ideas. Writing can be a lonely process sometimes, which is one of the reasons I absolutely love Austin Film Festival!

I'll never forget the feeling of attending for the first time and being surrounded by people who love storytelling just as much as I do. People who will happily nerd out with you over story structure, characters, and their latest screenplay. There's something really special about being around people who just get it.

Over the years, I've made so many incredible friendships at AFF with people I'm still connected with today! And every year, I leave Austin feeling inspired, motivated, and excited to get home and WRITE!

I've attended AFF multiple times and even had the honor of being a panelist last year, so I've experienced the festival from both sides. And while it's an incredible opportunity to learn, network, and make connections, I also know how overwhelming it can feel, especially your first year!

So whether it's your first time attending or your fifth, I wanted to share some of my biggest tips for making the most of your Austin Film Festival experience!

1. Lead With Genuine Interest and Kindness, Not an Ask

This is my BIGGEST networking tip! Don't approach conversations thinking about what someone can do for you, and definitely don't immediately launch into your screenplay pitch. Instead, be genuinely curious about others. If someone asks what you're working on, that's your opening! Remember, you have something valuable to offer, too. Most importantly, be yourself and focus on making genuine connections! Some of the best connections happen when you stop trying so hard to network and just have a conversation!

2. Have a Plan for Keeping Track of the People You Meet

You're going to meet A LOT of people, and trust me, after a few days, conversations start to blur together! Have a system ready, whether that's business cards, social media, or a spreadsheet. My biggest tip? Jot down a few details about each person and what you discussed. You'll thank yourself when it's time to follow up!

3. Research the Panelists and Plan Your Schedule in Advance

There are SO many panels at AFF, so look through the conference schedule beforehand and prioritize what aligns with your goals. Research panelists you'd love to learn from or connect with, too! Having been a panelist myself, I can tell you a thoughtful question or genuine conversation goes much further than immediately asking for something. Of course, don't attend a panel with the expectation that you'll definitely get one-on-one time with the speaker. Go because you want to learn first. If you get the chance to connect afterward, that's an added bonus. And leave some room for spontaneity! 

4. Don't Sleep on the Script Library!

In past years, AFF has made top-placing competition screenplays available to read, and if they're available, PLEASE take advantage! Pay attention to what hooks you, how writers handle dialogue and description, and what makes their voices unique. Even reading the first ten pages of several scripts can teach you SO much!

Tip: Check with the festival about script library availability, as this can change year to year.

5. Don't Forget to Follow Up After the Festival

Don't let those wonderful connections end when you leave Austin! Send a quick, personal message referencing something you talked about. And remember, you don't need to ask for anything! Sometimes it's simply about staying connected, supporting each other's work, and building genuine friendships.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy It, Too!

Don't put so much pressure on yourself to make something happen that you forget to enjoy the experience! Go to panels, meet people, make friends, and step outside your comfort zone. I hope you leave Austin feeling just as inspired and excited to write as I always do!

And if you're looking for more ways to connect with fellow writers and grow your craft, we'd love to have you join us inside The Reel Circle by Life Out Loud Films.

Happy writing!

Bri Kaisen