Combining the Physical and Digital Realms in the Most Effective Manner: The True Virtual Production Explained
Let it Rip Pictures, a U.S. based production company, has teamed up with Copenhagen's KIND and Shortcut LED Stage to announce their collaboration for the U.S. market.
“The Shortcut LED Stage 360 VP stage is designed to cater to the needs of our U.S. based clients, agencies, filmmakers, and visual storytellers, offering them a flexible, creative, and cost-effective environment for their productions, all while maintaining a strong commitment to productivity and sustainability.” said Tomek Kulesza, EP at Let it Rip.
The 360 LED stage provides numerous benefits through virtual production, including stunning scene lighting, design freedom, and complete environmental control. By using image-based lighting, it effectively simulates reality. This cutting-edge technology enables creators to craft immersive virtual worlds, elevate live performances, reduce the chances of budget overruns, and visualise their concepts in real time.
In addition to the innovative 360 VP stage, the facility offers cutting-edge technology, hair and makeup rooms, fitting rooms, a standard soundstage next door, and designated areas for both crew and cast.
Tomek Kulesza, EP at Let it Rip, said, "We’re thrilled to kick off our collaboration with KIND and the Shortcut LED Stage! The 360 VP stage is an extraordinary piece of equipment, complemented by a talented crew and a proven production workflow. This setup empowers brands and agencies to unleash their creative ideas without the limitations of traditional filmmaking. Imagine shooting a ski resort scene in summer and a beach setting in winter—or even both in one day—while easily integrating tabletop shots. It may sound ambitious, but the process is incredibly seamless and controlled. This innovative approach not only reduces budgets but also amplifies creative possibilities, enabling us to deliver stunning results within those financial constraints. Exciting times ahead!"
Kate Kagawa, partner at KIND said, "We're excited to bring our expertise in virtual production to the U.S. market in collaboration with Let it Rip Pictures and the Shortcut LED Stage. This partnership allows us to push creative boundaries while delivering high-quality, sustainable productions. The 360 LED stage is a game-changer, enabling us to create visually stunning content with unmatched efficiency and flexibility. The future of filmmaking is here, and we're thrilled to be leading the charge.”
Julie Klitgaard, VP producer at Shortcut LED Stage, said, "Our collaboration with KIND and Let it Rip Pictures marks an exciting chapter in the evolution of virtual production. The 360 LED stage is not just a technical marvel; it’s a platform where creativity and sustainability intersect. We’re proud to offer a space where filmmakers and brands can bring their visions to life with top of the game precision and environmental consciousness. This partnership showcases our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in filmmaking, and we’re eager to see the incredible projects that will come to life on our stage."
Filming on a 360 VP stage comes with a host of benefits compared to traditional methods. The ambient lighting provided by the LED screens naturally sets the right tone for scenes, enhancing their realism and significantly cutting down on post-production efforts. This means filmmakers can steer clear of budgeting for colour corrections, pattern adjustments, or unwanted green spill, allowing for a more streamlined production process.
By using photogrammetry and 3D scanning, filmmakers can authentically recreate real-world sets, giving them total creative control over their environments. Game engines further enhance this by allowing the manipulation of landscapes, repositioning elements such as trees and buildings, and even creating unique lighting conditions like a perpetual twilight ambiance.
VP goes beyond just replicating natural settings; it seamlessly integrates with extended reality (xR) technology to forge immersive 360° environments. By synchronising LED screens with camera movements, filmmakers can craft entire worlds from a single stage. For instance, a director can tilt or pan the camera, and the backgrounds adjust in real-time, making the experience feel organic and dynamic, as seen in productions like "The Mandalorian."
When actors perform in front of LED screens that showcase virtual environments, they can engage with their surroundings as though they are real, which enriches their performances through a deeper sense of immersion.
In the past, unexpected challenges such as inclement weather or unavailable locations could derail a project's budget. Now, with the integration of LED displays, camera tracking, and real-time rendering, directors and actors can see the final product instantly, enabling them to make immediate adjustments. This method emphasises perfecting scenes during filming rather than depending on post-production edits.
The VP stage in Copenhagen is perfectly positioned for global collaboration, thanks to a wealth of low-cost direct flights from the US and Europe. This accessibility, combined with the city's rich talent pool and diverse live-action locations, creates an ideal blend of cost efficiency and high-quality production. This flexibility makes Copenhagen an attractive option for brands looking to maximise their creative potential while keeping budgets in check.
A notable aspect of this collaboration is the Green Stage, which is partially powered by sustainable energy. This dedication to green technology not only supports the energy needs of the Shortcut LED VP Stage but also provides a considerable benefit for productions aiming to reduce their carbon footprint.
This partnership between Let it Rip Pictures, KIND Film & Shortcut LED Stage represents a major leap forward in the production industry, equipping creators with the necessary tools and a supportive environment.
Example of the spot shot:
