Film expo coming to Burbank
The media capital of the world will host the Createasphere Entertainment Technology Expo beginning Wednesday afternoon, bringing industry professionals and educators together while featuring the latest in cutting-edge filmmaking technology.
Originally called the HD Expo when the event was founded in 2001, Createasphere at the Burbank Airport Marriott Hotel includes panels and exhibitors to showcase not only what is available in the industry, but what can be found in the San Fernando Valley.
“We bring together both the creative and technical aspects with Createasphere,” said Christine Purse, a spokeswoman for the event. “It’s a vibrant atmosphere that showcases our film community that creates all sorts of content across multiple platforms, including television, Web and documentaries.”
Wednesday will feature a panel comprising nine Society of Camera Operator members about what it takes to get desired shots.
“All the panelists have done really amazing and completely outrageous things in order to get these shots,” Purse said.
The panelists, who have done work ranging from “Saving Private Ryan” to “Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and “Driving Miss Daisy,” will speak on their varying experiences to create the unique atmospheres necessary for the different genres of film.
Stephen Lighthill — the senior filmmaker in residence for cinematography at the American Film Institute — will host a panel Thursday afternoon about his school’s program.
Createasphere is a useful recruiting tool for the institute as most students work in the film industry before enrolling, and the school does not often get an opportunity to participate at similar events.
The average age is 28 and is meant for a light operator, or someone who hasn’t seen their opportunity to become a cinematographer and wants to push harder for it, Lighthill said.
“We prepare people for the industry,” she said.
Lighthill, a Burbank resident for 20 years, agrees the region is the ideal location for Createasphere, with the enormous amount of equipment, manufacturers, suppliers and technology users who will be featured.
EVS, a Glendale-based rental and sales production business since 1992, will be featured in the exhibition hall and is one of the few local firms appearing at the event.
“[Createasphere] is great to inform people that we exist,” said Casey Goode, marketing director for EVS. “We are the one full-stop shop that’s a native business at the event.”
EVS is also in the process of opening attached sound stages, making it the only full production facility in the San Fernando Valley, he added.
Many of the other exhibitors are traveling from across the nation to showcase their wares and services.
Burbank is also hosting the Creative Talent Network Animation Expo from Nov. 19 through Nov. 21.