New Orleans has a unique look all its own, from our architecture to our street signs.  It's no wonder that the film industry has taken notice to this and produced numerous movies and shows right in our city.  With Louisiana being the 3rd largest film industry in the U.S. and New Orleans being the top destination for filmmakers its no wonder why our city is host to the 1st annual Final Cut Pro Conference.

"With Final Cut Pro roughly being used in over 50% of the post production market, its vital that people know how to utilize the software in the film industry."

The conference consists of a four day event with networking, workshops, and Q&A portions centered around the Apple based product.  The conference organizers wanted a place where participants felt welcomed, had access to great food, and could enjoy the city while learning. Ben Balser, one of the key organizers and trainers for the conference says "With Final Cut Pro roughly being used in over 50% of the post production market, its vital that people know how to utilize the software in the film industry."

The conference starts on Thursday, October 22nd with a reception on the Riverboat Natchez giving all the participants a chance to mingle before the first seminar even starts.  Friday and Saturday consists of lecture style workshops where participants are treated to topics such as FCP Power Editing, Utilizing Motion 3, Color Grading/Correcting, and Optical Disc and MORE for the Mac.  Even more impressive than the line of workshops are the people conducting them.  These trainers are world renowned Apple and Final Cut Pro experts who include Larry Jordan, Executive Producer and Host of Creative Planet's Digital Production BuZZ with over 25 years of experience. Ben Balser, founder of the South Louisiana Final Cut Pro Users Group, Alexis Van Hurkman, author of Encyclopedia of Color Correction and other user manuals for Apple Computer’s Color, Shake, and Final Cut Pro 4 and Bruce Nazarian, President of the International Digital Media Alliance/CEO of Digital Media Consulting Group, Inc.

Capping off the conference is a Q&A discussion panel on the last day answering questions about the Final Cut Pro software, the Mac platform, and other industry questions.  Taking place at the Westin, visitors from out of town have direct access to the French Quarter.  Students in high school or college can also get a 15% discount on tickets with proof of enrollment.  This conference should put more spotlight on New Orleans as a full fledged film market where filmmakers have the scenery, resources, and skilled talent to produce quality cinematographic.

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