About

​The Nashville Filmmakers Guild began in early 2013 as a coffee shop meetup and online Facebook group. In July, 2016 NFG grew into an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit foundation focused on filmmaker skills development, networking, and education. As the organization grew, so did its commitment to building community and training the next generation of filmmakers. NFG has hosted world class speakers like Roger Deakins ASC, Lawrence Sher ASC, and Jay Holben ASC. NFG is composed of 6 operating committees serving over 200 NFG members and an online community of more than 6,000 filmmakers statewide. 

Story Give Cast & Crew

Join the Team

Do you have the passion and stamina for public service?
If you can dedicate at least 1 year to lead and grow with NFG, pick an interest and sign up!

SARAH HAAS
NIC DUGGER
MARK JACKSON

Committees

​Committee groups is where it really happens! Members participate in the brainstorming, planning and implementing the pieces necessary to carry out the NFG mission. Join a committee and be on the front line leading the charge!

Board of Directors

The board of directors for NFG have a drive and fervent attitude to see the film and video industry in Tennessee grow and thrive! This board consists of highly efficient motivators, influencers and leaders who get it done! Do you fit the bill?

Meet the Team

  • SARAH HAAS

    SARAH HAAS

    Executive Director

    Sarah is an independent producer in documentary and feature scripted film. Her background includes two years working with the Sundance Institute on their yearly Filmmaker Labs which led to interest in filmmaker development. She enjoys supporting filmmakers in their continuing education through organizing and planning.

  • KELLEY BELL

    KELLEY BELL

    Administrative Coordinator

    Kelley is a writer, filmmaker, and educator here in Nashville. In addition to writing and directing narrative short films, she writes grants for nonprofits, teaches creative writing camps for youth, and has created numerous interactive, educational concerts at the Nashville Symphony for over a decade.

  • MAX A. BUTLER

    MAX A. BUTLER

    Board Member

    Max has expanded his experience by producing commercials, concert specials, and music videos; both as a freelancer and through his production company, Stories We Can Tell. He has continued his work in film, serving as Executive Producer, Line Producer, or UPM on seven projects since 2013.

  • NIC DUGGER

    NIC DUGGER

    Board Member

    Nic Dugger is a Jackson, Tennessee native and MTSU grad who founded TNDV in October of 2004. Currently Nic serves as the President on the Board of Directors for the Mid-South Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences.

  • MEGAN HILL

    MEGAN HILL

    Megan is a video production executive specializing in virtual production, studio operations, and large-scale buildouts. She has led the development and launch of production studios across multiple markets. Known for bridging the gap between creative and technical teams, she brings a practical, hands-on approach to modern production environments and emerging virtual production pipelines.

  • SCOTT SIMMONS

    SCOTT SIMMONS

    Board Member

    Scott has worked both as a freelancer and on staff at post-houses in Nashville for well over a decade. As a managing editor for Pro Video Coalition Scott brings his knowledge and networking capabilities to help propel NFG forward.

  • DAVID S. SMITH

    DAVID S. SMITH

    Board Member

    David is an award-winning filmmaker, writer, editor, and professor. He is currently the Film Crew Technology Program Director at the Columbia State Community College’s Franklin campus. His work in commercial video production & post has earned him two corporate top-honor awards from KINKO's and The Bridgestone Group, as well as three Telly Awards for his work with the Tennessee Center for Child Welfare.

  • LAP CAT STUDIO

    LAP CAT STUDIO

    Graphic Design Sponsor

    Nic Malone is the owner of Lap Cat Studio, a visual design studio based in Nashville. His passion is developing the best creative goods for good humans. When he’s not in the studio, he’s hunting for the best coffee and hanging out with Pixel and Mica, the lap cats.

    “As a member of the creative community and now part of NFG, my focus is on using design to support people who are doing good, positive work in the world.”

  • SYDNEY GOGGINS

    SYDNEY GOGGINS

    Diversity Equity & Inclusion Volunteer

    Sydney works in PR in Nashville. She has always been passionate about representation within media and looks forward to leveraging underrepresented voices within the film community. She is excited to connect with members and brainstorm outreach initiatives.

  • NATHAN THOMPSON

    NATHAN THOMPSON

    Advisory Board Member

    Nathan has volunteered for NFG since 2015. His passion for community, education and equality motivate his efforts to further develop the organization. Nathan is a 19 time Emmy Award winning cinematographer and is the owner of rental house Contrast Cine.

  • TANNER GRANDSTAFF

    TANNER GRANDSTAFF

    Advisory Board Member

    Tanner is an award-winning filmmaker and founder of the production company Aberration. On set, he is a Director of Photography for music videos, commercials, and short films. His passion for community and networking has lead him to join NFG and develop the Artist Spotlight series.

  • MARK JACKSON

    MARK JACKSON

    Workshops & Events Volunteer

    Mark D. Jackson is an award winning Producer, Director and Editor with other 20 years experience in film and TV. He has freelanced for networks such as MTV, BET, CMT, TBN, and ESPN. In 1996, Mark made his feature film debut as one of Spike Lee’s assistants on “Get On the Bus.” Currently, he is the CEO of Above The Mark Productions.

  • TBA

    YOUR NAME HERE

    Marketing Communications Volunteer

    Your Bio Here! 

Contact us

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