I have had a great experience photographing the Independent Cinemas Association of Australia 2011 conference. The conference was held in the Dendy Cinemas at Circular Quay on Sydney Harbour. What a beautiful venue to hold a corporate event. Who would have thought to hold a conference in a cinema. What a great idea.
This is actually part of the brave new world of cinemas thinking outside the box to get people back to their businesses. That great social tradition of night out to the movies has in someone way been replaced by a night in connecting on social network sites, online gaming and various social media variations.
Things have changed in cinema world, the phasing out of celluloid prints and transition to digital playouts off hard drives means a rethink of the business model. Cinemas are diversifying their product mix with some cinemas broadcasting live conferences, music, opera and sporting events.
The need for social connection is still there and always will be. Social media has the ability to physically isolate people. That need to socially connect is on the forefront of thinking of cinemas.
The independent cinemas around the country perform a great social function. The cost and necessity of new technology will force new thinking and innovation. Heres hoping cinemas thrive in this brave new socially connected world.
