Introduction to the Houston Media Conference
The Houston Media Conference is an event that aims to bring together media professionals and provide a platform for them to showcase their work, learn from each other, and gain insights into the business side of filmmaking. The conference is hosted by the Houston Cinema Arts Society and the Southwest Alternate Media Project, and it takes place at CityCentre in Houston.
The Purpose of the Conference
The conference is designed to address the issue of Houston’s media community being "siloed," where professionals work in isolation without a central hub for collaboration. Katie Creeggan-Rios, the executive director of Houston Cinema Arts Society, notes that Houston has a large and creative community, but many professionals leave the city to work in other places like Atlanta, Austin, Dallas, and Los Angeles. The conference aims to provide a platform for these professionals to connect, share ideas, and learn from each other.
Events and Activities
The conference features a series of seminars, screenings, and social events that bring together media professionals from various fields, including TV and motion picture producers, podcasters, and social media content creators. Some events are free and open to the public, while others require tickets. The conference will cover topics such as business acumen, the implications of Senate Bill 22, and the use of technology in filmmaking.
Business Acumen and Film Incentives
One of the key topics to be discussed at the conference is business acumen, including the implications of Senate Bill 22, which creates a film incentive fund to support film and TV projects produced in Texas. The fund will provide $300 million over two years, and it is expected to have a significant impact on the film industry in the state. Creeggan-Rios notes that while creatives are often focused on their art, they also need to be able to manage their own business, which can be a challenge.
Technology and Social Media
The conference will also feature sessions on technology and social media, including how to start a social media brand as a filmmaker and how to take advantage of emerging technologies like AI. Creeggan-Rios notes that understanding these technologies and how to use them is crucial for media professionals who want to succeed in the industry.
Conclusion
The Houston Media Conference is an exciting event that provides a platform for media professionals to connect, learn, and grow. By covering topics such as business acumen, film incentives, and technology, the conference aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the film industry and how to succeed in it. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or just starting out, the conference is a great opportunity to learn from others, share your own ideas, and take your career to the next level. With its focus on collaboration, innovation, and creativity, the Houston Media Conference is an event not to be missed.
