It will be lights, camera and action for aspiring Jessamine County filmmakers as the first annual Jessamine County Public Library Film Festival kicks off in August.

The library will showcase short films made by various community members. Awards and light refreshments will be provided during the festival.

Patrons of all ages are welcome to attend and encouraged to come dressed in their best.

Leading up to the festival, JCPL will host a cinematography class from 5 to 7 p.m. on Monday, July 17 and 24.

Stephanie Fitch, director of film studies at Kentucky Community and Technical College, will present a condensed series of workshops on film creation. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about numerous resources as well as the ins and outs of cinematography. No previous experience will be required to attend these classes.

Entries for the short film festival will be accepted from teens grades 6 through 12 as well as adults, starting July 1, to August 8 via the online form only.

Films must be 10 minutes or less, and rated G up to PG-13. No R-rated content will be accepted.

Participants can emulate various genres or formats, such as live action, animation and music videos. Entries are not considered accepted until the entrant has received a confirmation email from JCPL staff.

Films may be submitted via YouTube, Google Drive, Dropbox or other cloud sharing links. Films not in English must be subtitled in English, and only one entry per person is accepted.

Once entered, films will be reviewed by three professional judges and JCPL staff at the Short Film Festival which will occur from 1:30 to 4:30 p.m. on Sunday, August 13. Awards will be given to the first, second and third place winners. Attendees of the festival will have the option to choose an Audience Favorite. Entrants do not need to be present at the Short Film Festival in order to win.