What are recommended best practices for shooting in Virtual Production?

ICVFX Best Practices

Camera Recommendations:

Genlock port

Evertz 5601MSC via BNC cable (tethered)

True 24 fps (not 23.98)

48 fps or 60 fps is not recommended due to increased risk of scan lines

Shutter Angle

144 and 180 degrees (camera dependent) 

Specific cameras we've tested and recommend

• Sony Venice II
• Sony Venice I
• Arri Alexa Mini (if retrofitted with an SDI port)
• Arri Alexa 35
• RED Ranger
• RED Helium
• RED Komodo
• RED V- Raptor & XL
• Blackmagic Ursa Mini 4.6k

BEST PRACTICES

CONTROL YOUR LIGHTING: Use light grids to control light spill. The shaders and the LED pixels themselves will catch light emitting from practical lights which can result in washed out colors or lifted black levels.

MATCH CONTRAST RATIOS: Use a false color monitor to match contrast ratios between the content on the wall and the subject that's being lit practically.

STAY FOCUSED: Try to keep your aperture as wide as you can and keep your focal point ~8-10' away from the wall to avoid moiré.

PRELIGHT: Plan for a pre-light day so that you can make the most out of your shoot day.

COMMUNICATE: Talk with the ICVFX Supervisor on-set.