Generate masters exports and backups for archive

• Create high-resolution master files for video and audio in lossless or visually lossless formats suitable for archival purposes.
• Maintain separate backups of the original footage, audio, and editing data to preserve the films integrity and facilitate future edits or revisions.
• Balance the quality and file size by choosing an appropriate compression codec and bit rate.
• For master copies, maintain the highest quality possible with formats like ProRes 422 or DNxHD/HR, which offer minimal loss of quality.

DaVinci:

https://www.premiumbeat.com/blog/how-to-export-davinci-resolve/

Exporting other versions, for festivals or online

Once the film is exported and the master files are generated, it’s time to prepare for distribution.

• If submitting to film festivals, research the preferred upload methods for each festival. Some festivals may require specific file formats, sizes, or online platforms for submission.
• Choose appropriate export settings based on the intended use and distribution platform.
  • Consider the target audience, delivery specifications, and file size requirements.
  • Balance the trade-off between quality and file size by selecting suitable compression codecs, bit rates, and formats for the final output. 

Film Freeway:

Film Freeway is an online platform that streamlines the film submission process to various festivals and competitions, and is the platform used for the SER2025 Film Festival. To submit your film for the festival

1. Create an account on FilmFreeway and carefully follow the submission guidelines for each festival you wish to enter (view the guidelines for the SER2025 Film Festival here). 
2. Upload the film using the appropriate format and file size restrictions specified by each festival.

You might like further to consider uploading your final film to social media or distribution platforms that suit your needs. Timing is important, however, as many film festival will not accept films that have been screened prior, online or otherwise. It is a good idea to research this and have a distribution, “marketing” and screening plan.