FAQ’S
While we recommend 3D backgrounds for many projects, not all projects require a fully 3D background. Many productions are perfectly fine using real plates, 2.5D plates, or unreal scenes rendered as 2D plates. It all depends on your project. As plates are a cheaper option in the studio, during our discovery call we will help you figure out what your production’s needs are.
Are all the backgrounds 3D?
What is the process of getting started on a project?
The first step in your first virtual production project is to give us a call. We will hop on a discovery meeting to chat about your idea, walk you through what will be needed to make it happen, and begin planning the design process. After the discovery call, we will connect you with a designer who will be in charge of putting together the background content. We love to connect the designer with the Producer, Director, DP, Production Designer, and AD. After the design process is finished, the next step would be storyboarding with the 3D environments so we know exactly what we are going for on shoot day. This process is easy, as the unreal environments are able to be entered for live storyboarding. We always recommend a prep/pre-light day after this, if this is your first project with us, we’d love to throw in a free prep-day. After the pre-pro process is complete, everyone should know exactly what is to be executed on the shoot and the final images are all in camera for a quick turnaround.
Foreground, mid-ground, and background elements are definitely recommended, but as with anything in film, the only thing that matters is what’s in frame. We’ve had productions fill up the whole soundstage with practical art, and others that strategically place props to create the illusion of a fully built set. The shots you have in mind will help us determine what our recommendation is for your practical art, but some form of practical art is always encouraged.
Do I need to fill the volume with practical art?
Yes! A conversation should be had with our virtual production and the photographer beforehand, but it is absolutely an option. See below for some examples.
Can I take still photography on the volume?
What is the learning curve?
Virtual Production can be intimidating for a filmmaker who hasn’t done it before, or for clients who are unsure of the new technology. We can assure you that with the proper pre-production conversations with our team, the results your after will be as natural to you as filming on a practical location. Give us a call to schedule your next production, and if it is your first time, we’d love to throw in a free prep day.