photos by Andrew Alonso
On November 16, the Atlanta Coordinating Committee (ATLCC) and the DGA Assistant Director Training Program (ADTP) presented the seminar, Adding Volume: A Virtual Production Workshop. Held at the Lux Stage at Trilith Studios just outside Atlanta, DGA members of all categories and trainees from the area were able to gain valuable insight into how a large-scale, state of the art LED volume stage can be used to help achieve a Director’s vision and give the participants a first-hand look at what this new technology is capable of and the various ways it can be integrated into a production.
The seminar began with a welcome from ATLCC members: Director/DGA Fourth Vice President Seith Mann and 1st AD Jason Inman, who spoke about the work of the committee and its plans for the future.
The attendees then heard a brief summary of the history of Virtual Production by Lux Stages representatives, who shared the information in the context of the technology that came before it before launching into a demonstration of the LED volume at Stage 22, showcasing the system’s 2D, 3D, and camera tracking capabilities. Afterwards, everyone divided into breakout groups where they used a sample script to identify scenes, shots, page counts and build a plan for physical, digital, and post-production assets.
The breakout group discussions also covered topics such as art department and virtual art department (VAD) planning for in-camera VFX (ICVFX), methods of collaboration and the importance of buy-in from key creatives; budgeting and scheduling for virtual production on set; and the benefits of ICVFX in principal production.
The seminar concluded with the breakout groups reassembled to discuss decisions made during their sessions and have their other topics covered in a general Q&A with the experts.
These DGA Assistant Director Training Plan Currency Training Seminars for Unit Production Managers and Assistant Directors are designed to keep DGA members abreast of current management practices and contract updates. Don’t miss these opportunities to enhance your knowledge! Check the DGA Monthly or www.dga.org for the next event near you.