For over 20 years now, the film community in Calgary, Canada, has had the support and guidance of the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers (CSIF), to help it grow. With classes, festival, grants and exhibitions, the CSIF has become the film centre of the new West.

The CSIF began in 1978 as a discussion group about Super 8mm cameras, and filming. Over the years they have moved out of the old church basement where they were originally located, and have taken up residence at 1313 - 4th SW. (just above the famous SLOTH records store). Contained within the walls of the society are books, volunteer opportunities, and the entire 16mm film collection of the Calgary Public Library (containing classics such as Casablanca, and A Clockwork Orange).

As a non-profit organisation, the CSIF is funded through the Alberta Foundation for the Arts, and also through Canada Council. Memberships are available in Associate and Production levels.

As an associate member, you can receive the CSIF newsletter, The Answer Print, and get discounted prices on workshops and events. Production members receive bigger discounts, and also have access to the CSIF's large selection of rental equipment. As far as equipment goes, the society has everything a filmmaker could need, from cameras (Super 8 up to ARRI SR 16mm) to sound (porta DAT down to MONO NAGRA) to lighting, all at incredible rental rates.

In addition to equipment, the CSIF also has a great online edit suite equipped with MEDIA 100 software, and a Betacam deck. Also for rent at far, far below industry standard rates.

For the past 10 years the CSIF has played host to one of Calgary's largest film festivals, 'The $100 Film Festival', held every November. This is a celebration of low-low-budget filmmaking, as in the beginning all the entries had to be made for under $100. That's no longer realistic, however, so the name was kept to reflect the festival's commitment to independent filmmakers. Three years ago the society added 'Fairy Tales' to its list of festivals. Fairy Tales is Calgary's first gay and lesbian film festival and, in the summer of 2001, will be celebrating its third anniversary.

Along with helping you make and show your film, the CSIF can also help you learn to make the best film possible. Every spring and fall, the society hosts a number of weekend workshops taught by local industry professionals in topics as varied as Editing, Basic Camera, Assistant Directing, Sound Recording, and Marketing.

But, more important than all that is the people you meet, and the friends you make within the society. They hold parties, screenings, volunteer days - all places where you can meet other filmmakers and discuss the ups and downs of the art form. The CSIF is committed to helping young or inexperienced filmmakers get started, and they have always stood behind their members.

You can reach the Calgary Society of Independent Filmmakers at www.csif.org - from their Website you should be able to find out just how great they all are.