Virtual Production and the AV Industry
Virtual production is changing the game in the film industry, and the future has never looked brighter. In the latest episode of the XR Star podcast, host Amelia Kallman sits down with Sony’s Sebastian Leske to explore how extended reality and virtual production are revolutionizing the scope of media.
What Is Virtual Production?
Imagine a world where actors can step onto a set and be instantly transported to any location or setting, thanks to the power of XR screens. That’s the magic of virtual production, a broad term that encompasses the use of virtual effects in the physical world to create film and television. With the help of LED walls, the need for green screens and post-production work is significantly reduced, saving time, money, and energy.
One example of the power of XR is The Mandalorian, the groundbreaking Disney+ series that made waves in the industry for its use of in-camera virtual effects and extended reality. With the help of LED screens, the cast and crew could see their surroundings and adjust the special effects in real time, making for a more immersive and efficient production experience.
Shifting Post-Production Work to Pre-Production
But XR production isn’t just for big-budget productions like The Mandalorian. XR technology can be used in commercials, music videos, and even indie films, offering filmmakers more flexibility and control over their productions.
However, as Leske points out, effective virtual production requires meticulous planning during the pre-production stage. But the benefits are clear: reduced costs, faster turnaround times, and a smaller carbon footprint.
Benefits of Using XR
The future of virtual production with XR technology is still being written, but one thing is certain: it’s an industry disruptor that opens doors and creates a landscape for more immersive, yet more efficiently made, media. As Leske notes, there will always be a time and place for on-site shooting, but virtual production is poised to become the dominant method of filmmaking in the coming years.
For more information on virtual production with XR, listen to the full episode here. You can learn more about Amelia Kallman on her website and find Sebastian Leske on LinkedIn.
