Most of our clients appreciate holding a pre-lighting day, as it often represents their first hands-on experience with virtual production.

While this day isn't mandatory, it's a crucial step that allows them to understand the fundamentals of producing the project's video in a virtual world, and to fine-tune lighting, angles, and logistics before the actual shoot. It ensures everything runs smoothly and gives everyone confidence in the process and the final result.

What do we usually do during the pre-light day?

• Setup and Calibration - The LED volume is activated and all technical equipment is configured and calibrated. This includes adjusting screens, camera tracking systems, and ensuring that all technology is working properly.
• Layout and Movement - Plan and organize the movement and positioning of sets and actors in virtual environments. Determine transitions between different scenes, especially for multi-environment shoots.
  
• Lighting Settings - Adjust virtual and physical lighting setups to achieve the desired look. This involves adjusting light sources, shadows, and reflections to ensure they appear natural and consistent with the virtual environment.
  
• Camera Angles and Lenses - Work with the Director of Photography (DP) to determine the best camera angles and lenses for each shot. Test and adjust to ensure the virtual environment looks optimal on camera.
• Technical Rehearsals — Conduct technical rehearsals to test the integration of live-action elements with virtual environments. Check synchronization, parallax effects, and real-time rendering to identify and resolve technical issues.
  
• Schedule and Logistics — Plan the logistics of the shoot by creating a detailed schedule. This helps minimize downtime and ensures a smooth workflow during live production.
  
• Crew Coordination — Ensure all departments, from the lighting and camera crews to the virtual production team, are aligned. Clear communication and collaboration are essential for a successful shoot.
  
• Staging and Blocking — Plan the movement and positioning of actors and/or props in virtual environments. Pre-set up props and scenery in designated areas to facilitate loading and unloading during scene changes, ensuring efficient transitions and reducing downtime.
• Final Adjustments — Make final adjustments based on rehearsal results and team feedback. This ensures everything is optimized and ready for production days.