2013 Georgia BigPictureCon Coming To Westwood College

This October, Westwood College in Midtown will host the 2013 Georgia BigPictureCon (GABPC) Film and Technology Conference.

“The GABPC is a two-day educational summit for professional and emerging filmmakers and those entering the film, technology, and digital media industry in Georgia,” said founder and producer Nancy Howard.

The conference, which began in 2005, is intended to connect students with professionals and industry representatives to keep them working in Georgia. The GABPC also serves as a resource for emerging filmmakers to find out what opportunities are available in the state. Compared to neighboring states, Georgia has much more to offer, including experienced production companies and post-production houses, trained crews, and skilled actors. In recent years, the state has provided tax credits and other incentives to encourage independent and studio film production in the state.

The conference will begin with a keynote session on Sunday, Oct. 13 and will end with another keynote speaker and a reception Monday, Oct. 14. In between, there will be educational sessions, workshops, and panel discussions on topics such as visual effects design, the role of a producer, digital content creation for mobile devices, and the latest trends in digital entertainment. Those with more experience will be able to attend the master tracks, which consist of longer, more advanced workshops.

Georgia Film Commissioner Lee Thomas will participate in the closing session, informing participants about the history of filmmaking in Georgia and discussing future developments. Ken Feinberg, founder of Creative Studios of Atlanta, will moderate the panel Acting in the Digital Age. Diane Ashford of Symmetry Entertainment and Amani Channel of Visual Eye Media will participate as a speaker as well.

The entry fee varies, with students paying $69 and up to $189 for an all-access pass for all sessions on both days. Groups of five or more can take $10 off per person if they purchase tickets together. Westwood College will host the conference, giving participants easy access to everything Midtown has to offer. The Hilton Garden Inn will be the host hotel, with a special rate of $149 per night for conference guests who use the promo code “GBPC.” More information about the convention can be found via phone or fax at 770-819-9635 or by visiting gabpc.com.