SMPTE at the 2025 Saudi Media Forum

The Saudi Media Forum (FOMEX) was held February 19-21 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. SMPTE had the privilege of presenting several sessions at the event with the intent of boosting the nation’s media technology infrastructure and training the next generation of Saudi engineers and technologists. Over 60% of Saudi Arabia’s population is under the age of 30, and the government is planning the construction of 300 radio stations, multiple television studios, and technology centers. SMPTE’s presence at FOMEX helped set a foundation for educational opportunities in the region as well as a chance to collaborate with new partners.

SMPTE Session 1: Empowering the Next Wave - A Broadcast Engineer’s Journey to Mentorship and Inspiring Innovation

This session took a look at the media infrastructure required for sports broadcasts. Led by the founder and principal of JPM Technology Consulting, Jesse Janosky, this session highlighted an in-depth look at the phases of broadcast design and production as well as the essential educational pathways, technical skills, and adaptability required to excel in this rapidly evolving field.

Janosky outlined his career working as a broadcast engineer in DC. He focused on the transformation from student to mentor, all while detailing the challenges and requirements for sports broadcasting. The session was the perfect combination of mentorship advice and technical lecture, the first of many at FOMEX.

SMPTE Session 2: Next Generation TV: UHD/HDR Key Principles

This session was a deep dive into the world of Ultra High Definition (UHD) and High Dynamic Range (HDR) television. Presented by Pierre Routhier, a specialist in advanced imaging technologies, the lecture detailed why UHD and HDR are superior to traditional HD formats and how these cutting-edge technologies redefine the viewing experience. It also taught attendees how to implement these technologies as well as their future.

SMPTE Session 3: Unlock Your Future - How SMPTE Drives Careers and Powers the Entertainment Revolution

In this session, Paul Whybrow, Chair of SMPTE Oceania, discussed all things SMPTE. From the Standards community to our educational opportunities, Whybrow covered how SMPTE can stimulate career growth, and offer students exclusive networking opportunities. Whybrow also talked about SMPTE’s technology efforts in AI, virtual production, and on-set virtual production. This session showcased everything SMPTE has to offer.

SMPTE Session 4: Mastering Color - The Science and Standards Behind Visual Storytelling

The final SMPTE session at FOMEX dealt with color science, the Standards that dictate best practices, and the technology that makes color an endlessly interesting topic. The presentation was given by David Long, the Director of the RIT Center for Media, Arts, Games, Interaction & Creativity (MAGIC) and MAGIC Spell Studios. He introduced participants to the principles of color science and its practical applications in media production, digital imaging, and computer graphics. Attendees also learned the development and implementation of color standards such as sRGB, ITU REC-709, ITU REC-2020, and

ACES. This session was designed for students, researchers, and industry professionals. Everyone in attendance left with a keen understanding of color science both in theory and in practice.

Conclusion

FOMEX was a stellar event. Countries and companies from all across the globe were represented, and SMPTE’s presence was indeed a powerful one. Through this new partnership, SMPTE hopes to foster a spirit of education, growth, and advancement for everyone who seeks master media technology.