Jackson Hole Digital Synthesis
Returns to Santa Barbara for 2004 Symposium

March 18, 2004, JACKSON, Wyo. The Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival returns to Santa Barbara, SEPT 30-OCT 2 for its biennial Tech Symposium, DIGITAL SYNTHESIS.

The three-day event, held at Fess Parker’s DoubleTree Resort and Spa is targeted specifically for media professionals interested in exploring the economic, logistical and creative dimensions of technological advances in the industry.

Described by Festival Executive Director, Lisa Samford, as “a rich opportunity for independent filmmakers to have access to the latest--often prototype--technology available to create and distribute programs,” the Symposium features industry experts and tech pioneers in a series of in-depth panels and roundtable discussions.

The 2002 event, held in Santa Barbara at Bacara Resort and Spa, attracted 250 delegates into the community. There were approximately 800 room nights booked for this off-season event. Direct event expenses, (i.e. food, beverage, lodging, transportation, production expenses, personnel, etc.) infused over $400,000 into the local economy.

The focus of the 2004 Symposium will be the expanding boundaries of digital technology in production, postproduction and distribution. Panel topics range from issues of format origination and conversion to synthetic imaging, digital intermediate, digital cinema, distribution alternatives and High Definition-3D. The Symposium will offer hands-on opportunities with the latest prototypes of digital and high definition equipment.

The Festival will join the Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History to premiere its National Wildlife Film Tour – a series of screenings and conversations with filmmakers and scientists. This collaboration will be presented to the Santa Barbara community September 30-October 3 at the Museum including several programs specifically for children.

“ Film is a powerful educational medium,” stated Museum Executive Director, Dr. Karl Hutterer. “The Santa Barbara Museum of Natural History is delighted to partner with the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival in advancing our shared mission of education and environmental stewardship.”

Festival Board member, Kathy Wolfe, owner of Santa Barbara-based Lobo Media Productions said, “As a long-time resident and business owner, I am delighted that the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival has chosen Santa Barbara. Our communities share a commitment to understand and preserve wildlife and the natural habitats of the world. Bringing these dynamic films to Santa Barbara will create an exciting opportunity for everyone.