Filmmaking Unlimited
Explore the cutting-edge world of virtual production, revolutionizing cinema
Discover how real-time technology is reshaping storytelling
Learn about the tools and techniques driving this innovative approach
What work is available in this industry for you?
Practical Production vs. Virtual Production
Practical Production
Virtual Production
  • Real Set Builds
  • Construction of buildings, trees, roads, etc.
  • Use of real cars, trains, boats.
  • Dependent on real-world lighting.
  • Digital Set Builds WITH physical world props
  • Filming on LED Walls
  • Use of video or game engine software
  • Use of real cars, trains, boats.
  • Ability to control: Lighting, Weather, Elements
Pre-Production: Crafting Virtual Worlds
1
Concept Design
Storyboarding and 3D environment creation in Unreal Engine
2
Asset Preparation
Import models, textures, and animations for virtual environments
3
Technical Planning
Set up camera tracking and LED volumes integration
Production: Merging Reality and Virtuality
Live Filming
Actors perform on sets with LED walls
Real-Time Rendering
Game engine renders environments as camera moves
Lighting and Effects
Seamless blend of real-world and virtual lighting
Post-Production: Refining the Magic

1

Visual Enhancements

2

CGI Integration

3

Color Grading

4

Sound Design
  • Fine-tune rendered visuals for consistency and realism
  • Add CGI characters and effects to enhance the story
  • Perfect the audiovisual experience for maximum impact
Jobs in Virtual Production
Pre-Production Roles
  • Concept Artist
    Creates visual concepts for sets, characters, and environments.
  • 3D Modeler
    Designs digital assets like props, characters, and environments.
  • Previsualization (Previs) Artist
    Creates animated storyboards to visualize scenes before filming.
  • Virtual Art Department (VAD) Specialist
    Develops and manages virtual environments and assets.
Production Roles
  • Virtual Production Supervisor
    Oversees the integration of physical and virtual elements during filming.
  • Camera Operator (with Tracking Expertise)
    Operates physical cameras while ensuring they sync with virtual environments.
  • LED Volume Technician
    Manages LED wall technology and ensures real-time rendering.
  • Motion Capture (MoCap) Technician
    Captures actor movements and transfers them to digital characters.
  • Real-Time Artist
    Adjusts virtual elements in real time during filming using software like Unreal Engine.
Post-Production Roles
  • Compositor
    Combines live-action and digital elements to create seamless visuals.
  • VFX Artist
    Enhances or adds special effects to filmed scenes.
  • Colorist
    Adjusts the colors and tones for the final visual aesthetic.
  • Editor
    Assembles footage into a coherent story, incorporating visual and audio elements.
Technical Roles
  • Game Engine Developer
    Designs and optimizes tools and workflows for real-time rendering.
  • Pipeline Engineer
    Creates efficient workflows between software and departments.
  • Software Specialist
    Provides expertise in tools like Unreal Engine, Maya, or Blender.
  • System Administrator
    Manages the complex technology infrastructure used in virtual production.
Creative & Management Roles
  • Director of Photography (Virtual)
    Plans and captures shots in virtual environments.
  • Production Designer
    Designs and oversees the visual look of sets, props, and environments.
  • Producer/Project Manager
    Coordinates schedules, budgets, and resources for the production.
Emerging Roles
  • AI Content Specialist
    Utilizes AI for automated asset creation or virtual actor performances.
  • Virtual Reality (VR)/Augmented Reality (AR) Specialist
    Designs immersive experiences as part of the virtual production process.
  • Sustainability Consultant
    Advises on eco-friendly practices within virtual production.
Putting it all together….
A Virtual Production Example