The first Leith Short Film Festival will take place on Saturday.
The festival includes 26 films from all over the world, created by new filmmakers just starting out or more seasoned professionals and two live panel discussions with audience Q and A sessions. There will be live music, food and drink from the independent vendors at The Pitt awards and networking.
The founders Lauryn McCorkell, Festival Producer, and Festival Director, Nick Grant, said: “This is the kind of festival we wish had existed when we were starting out. One where filmmakers at the beginning of their careers can meet industry professionals, ask honest questions and leave with practical knowledge, new connections and the confidence to take the next step.”
On their website the founders answer the question Why Leith Short Film Festival?
Scotland is home to many fantastic film festivals, each celebrating exceptional filmmaking. LSFF was created to complement that
landscape by focusing on something equally important: helping filmmakers take their next step in their careers.
The festival has been designed to create a professional but welcoming environment where filmmakers can ask the questions that matter most. From funding a first short film and finding collaborators to understanding career progression and prioritising limited budgets, LSFF aims to provide practical insight through honest conversations with people who have already walked that path.
Rather than simply celebrating completed films, LSFF hopes every attendee leaves with something that lasts beyond the credits—a new connection, practical knowledge or the confidence to take their next creative step.
Nicholas Grant, Festival Director, is an Award-winning Director/Editor from Edinburgh, Scotland. Having worked in film for over 12 years, Nick has experienced both the successes and setbacks that come with building a career in the industry.
Lauryn McCorkell, Festival Producer, is an RTS Award-winning Post Production Executive from Glasgow, Scotland now living in Leith. Having started her career almost 10 years ago as a runner and progressed through creative, production and post-production roles, she understands first-hand the challenges of entering and progressing within the industry.
Leith Short Film Festival on Saturday 26th September 2026 at The Pitt 20 W Shore Rd, Granton, Edinburgh EH5 1QD.
