The gear and
education expo
brings equipment
expertise, and
community
together at Cinespace
on September 7-8
A portion of the curriculum for this year’s Filmscape Chicago was announced today, and if registration goes anything like the event’s predecessor, classes are going to fill up quickly.
Although technically an inaugural run, Filmscape is actually an updated version of the annual expo formerly known as CineTech. With more than 30 vendors exhibiting equipment and dozens of professionals sharing expertise, the September 7-8 event at Cinespace Studios offers a unique mix of gear and know-how that only comes around once a year.
“We’re here to explore newer technology that traditional institutions may not yet cover,” says Barbizon Lighting Lead Sales Manager Ned McGregor, who is also part of the planning committee. “The technology is changing so fast, it’s impossible for anybody to keep up.”
Filmscape is presented by DePaul University, IATSE Local 476, MBS Equipment Co., Barbizon Lighting, and Keslow Camera. The 33 (and counting) exhibitors include ARRI, Essanay, and Panasonic.
McGregor will be teaching a class about DMX (Digital Multiplex) lighting control, a hot and rare commodity in today’s production industry.
“Directors and budgets are calling for a level of efficiency that’s only available through this technology,” he explains. “But they don’t necessarily teach it at schools.”
Keslow Camera General Manager Colette Gabriel, also on the planning committee, is “really excited” for the panel discussion about large format filming that Gary Adcock will lead.
“A lot of people have questions about when and how to use large format,” she says. “This will provide a better understanding of the equipment and its specific function within the industry.”
Gabriel spends her days advising and equipping productions at all levels, from student and indie films to major network TV series. But she says that attendees do not have to be experienced crew or camera operators to take advantage of the event.
The classes will range from “intro to in-depth courses,” and gear will be everywhere for people who just want to mingle through the myriad of “vendors who want to show off their latest toys.” The weekend is a resource as well as a gathering for all of Chicago’s unique production community.
“Vendors always like to appear on the coasts — and even Georgia gets a lot of love — but in Chicago they usually come piecemeal,” Gabriel explains. “Filmscape is everyone together at the same time and place.”
Registration, location, etc.
Filmscape takes place in and around the DePaul University facilities at the Cinespace Campus in North Lawndale (2558 W. 16th St). Basics will be taught in the school’s larger rooms on a first-come, first-served basis. Advanced classes will be held in more intimate settings and require pre-registration.
All of the courses are free, but the advanced selections require a deposit that will be refunded upon attendance. In other words, you get your money back after going to class.
“Last year, people signed up for as many classes as they could and ended up not attending,” explains McGregor. “We don’t want anyone to miss out.”
For more info, click here.
