The Starting Pixel Podcast

#33 Louisa Bremner on the World's Biggest LED Volume, AI and H&S

Starting Pixel — Wed, 09 Sep 2026 17:04:40 +0000

Rob sits down with Louisa, a virtual production supervisor whose career runs from being the first VP hire at DNEG through House of the Dragon at Leavesden to the biggest LED volume in the world in Australia. They dig into what it actually takes to shoot on a 12-metre stage where full houses with running water and two-storey barns get built inside the volume — and why, at that scale, the classic VP headaches like depth of field and parallax quietly disappear.

The conversation gets into the craft: the shift from Unreal Engine environments toward as-much-photographic-as-possible backdrops, the 2.5D vs full-3D debate, and the minimalist VFX-style approach of building only what the camera will actually see. Louisa is refreshingly honest about the human side too — how you win over experienced cinematographers and DOPs by going on a discovery process with them rather than dragging them away from their craft, and where the decision to 'go VP' actually gets made on a production.

They close on the big shifts reshaping everything: AI as a productivity tool rather than a threat, one-button VP demos, the bridge between AI-generated concepts and real production budgets, and how influencers, podcasts and traditional film-and-TP are all merging into one messy new frontier. Plus high-vis on film sets, floppy disks, and skating to where the puck is going.

Chapters
0:00 Solo setup and recording paranoia
0:50 Why does everyone wear black on film sets?
2:41 Meet Louisa: DNEG, Lux Machina and Australia
2:56 The VP journey: pre-volume days to The Mandalorian
3:56 House of the Dragon and reflections that give VP away
5:02 Image-based lighting and back screen projection
7:05 The world's biggest LED volume: 12 metres and giant sets
8:48 Parallax, 2.5D and the minimalist VFX approach
12:00 Photographic vs Unreal: marrying set and screen
13:51 Winning over DOPs and where the VP decision is made
20:05 AI as a productivity tool and one-button VP demos
32:15 AI concepts vs real budgets; rebuilding sets from AI
33:27 Shifting sands: cinema, podcasts and new frontiers
36:21 Influencers, brands and the new star ecosystem
40:00 Big screens vs small, IBC and a film that made the team cry

#32 Andrew Leeke: Beyond the Hype: AI Tools, Not Replacements

Starting Pixel — Tue, 01 Sep 2026 12:42:54 +0000

Recorded earlier in 2026, in this episode, Rob talks with Sam Kemp from Garden Studios about the rapid evolution of virtual production and its real-world applications. Sam shares his journey from indie filmmaking into VP, the growth of Garden Studios since 2021, and how they balance permanent and bespoke LED stage builds. They explore where VP adds the most value—like driving scenes, pickups, and complex environments—plus the importance of early creative involvement, hands-on training for crews, and R&D showcases such as their stunt-filled “train fight” demo. The conversation also covers cost-efficiency, industry misconceptions, and the future of VP in advertising, drama, and beyond.

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#31 Chris Jorna: One Day, 35 VFX Shots, One White Wall

Starting Pixel — Wed, 01 Apr 2026 12:57:26 +0000

What does AI actually do for filmmaking? Chris Jorna shares how he made a sci-fi film in one day with minimal budget by rethinking what tools are for. Discover why the most powerful use of AI isn't about impressive visuals — it's about supporting authentic performance, enabling independent storytellers, and building worlds from a single image.

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#30 John Murphy: Making Virtual Feel Invisible on Live TV

Starting Pixel — Mon, 12 Jan 2026 14:14:09 -0100

In this episode of The Starting Pixel Podcast, Rob is joined by John Murphy, Design Director at BBC Sport, for a deep dive into the creative and technical realities of virtual studios in live broadcast.John reflects on BBC Sport’s early adoption of real-time game engines, green screen, and later XR and LED workflows—beginning with Match of the Day and evolving through major global events including the Olympics, World Cups, and European Championships. He shares candid insight into balancing creativity within engineering-led environments, managing risk in live transmission, and bringing presenters, directors, and operations teams along on the journey.The conversation explores what it really takes to design virtual broadcast environments that serve editorial purpose rather than spectacle, the lessons learned from early virtual studios, and how hybrid approaches combining real locations with virtual elements often deliver the strongest results.A practical, experience-led discussion on virtual production for broadcast—covering green screen, Unreal Engine, LED XR, creative process, and why technology should always support the story, not distract from it.

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#27 Joshua M Kerr: YouTube First, Virtual Production, Storytelling and Geekery

Starting Pixel — Thu, 06 Nov 2025 11:27:34 -0100

Filmmaker and YouTuber Joshua M Kerr joins Rob Chandler at the Dean Street Podcast Studio to unpack the rise of YouTube-first virtual production and what it means for indie creators. Joshua shares how his fascination with The Mandalorian led him from claymation to building one of the most practical and educational VP channels on YouTube.

Together they dive deep into accessible filmmaking tech — from low-cost LED panels and green screen workflows to real-time tracking with iPhones — exploring how Unreal Engine, AI, and virtual production are redefining what’s possible for storytellers without blockbuster budgets.

They discuss the creative freedom these tools unlock, the ongoing myths around “expensive” virtual production, and how today’s “lo-fi done right” approach might just be the next revolution in independent filmmaking.

🎥 Topics include:

Building a VP channel from scratch
Low-budget real-time filmmaking
Green screen vs LED vs AI keying
Creative paralysis inside Unreal
Monetisation and creator burnout on YouTube
The future of indie virtual production

More from Joshua M Kerr:

www.youtube.com/@JoshuaMKerr

e: joshuamkerr@gmail.com
www.joshuamkerr.com

Recorded at The Dean Street Podcast Studio, powered by VeePod.

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#29. Tucker Downs: Everything you needed to know about LEDs but didn’t ask

Starting Pixel — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 13:32:38 +0000

In this episode of The Starting Pixel Podcast, Rob Chandler talks with Tucker Downs, colour scientist at ROE Visual, about the hidden science behind LED panels in virtual production. Tucker breaks down the essentials of pixel pitch, brightness, scan ratios, reflectance, and why these factors matter to filmmakers and cinematographers. The conversation explores how colour order systems like Munsell and standards such as Rec.709 and ACES shape what we see on screen, and why cameras and LED walls don’t always “see” colour the same way. Tucker also unpacks the challenge of moiré patterns, the compromises in LED wall design, and how RGB vs. full-spectrum solutions affect skin tones and immersion. The discussion closes with perspectives on the economics of large vs. smaller VP stages, how AI might streamline shot planning and workflows, and where LED panel technology is heading.

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#28 David C Smith: Capturing 360 Driving Plates and when UE is a Good Idea

Starting Pixel — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 16:39:40 +0000

In this conversation, Rob Chandler and David C. Smith delve into the fascinating world of virtual production, particularly focusing on driving plates and the technology that enhances realism in filmmaking. They discuss the evolution of driving techniques, the importance of 360-degree filming, and the challenges of managing data in high-fidelity productions. The conversation also touches on the role of Unreal Engine in creating immersive environments and the future of driving plates in the film industry.Plate Pros

email: contact@platepros.comInsta: www.instagram.com/plate_proswww.platepros.com

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#26 Sam Kemp: Why Virtual Production Works (and When It Doesn’t)

Starting Pixel — Mon, 11 Aug 2025 14:37:54 +0000

In this episode, Rob talks with Sam Kemp from Garden Studios about the rapid evolution of virtual production and its real-world applications. Sam shares his journey from indie filmmaking into VP, the growth of Garden Studios since 2021, and how they balance permanent and bespoke LED stage builds. They explore where VP adds the most value—like driving scenes, pickups, and complex environments—plus the importance of early creative involvement, hands-on training for crews, and R&D showcases such as their stunt-filled “train fight” demo. The conversation also covers cost-efficiency, industry misconceptions, and the future of VP in advertising, drama, and beyond.

Follow Garden On Socials:

Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/gardenstudioshq/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/gardenstudioshq/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/GardenStudiosHQ/

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#25 Ben Saffer: Storytelling, Technology and Tools of Tomorrow

Starting Pixel — Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:36:16 +0000

Ben Saffer has worn many hats in the film industry—from music video director to DIT on productions like Black Mirror and No Time to Die, to DP and Virtual Production Supervisor. In this episode of The Starting Pixel Podcast, Ben shares how reading a RED camera manual launched his career, why storytelling remains the hardest skill to master, and how technology like Unreal Engine, AI, and his new app “Shotpad” are reshaping filmmaking. We explore the hype versus reality of AI and virtual production, the evolving craft of cinematography, and the future tools filmmakers should be building for themselves.

#23 Jonathan Brigden: From Cellos to Pixel. Not an Ordinary Journey

Starting Pixel — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:18:30 +0000

Jonathan Brigden is the founder of Studio Giggle and co-owner of Distortion Studio, but his journey to running cutting-edge virtual production spaces is far from typical. Originally trained as a professional cellist, Jonathan made the leap from performing on stage to orchestrating immersive experiences for clients around the world. In this episode, we unpack how he combined a love for storytelling, music, and technology to build studios that push creative boundaries — from interactive events to real-time virtual production. It’s a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and why he believes creativity always comes first.Contact Jonathan: jon@distortion.studio
www.distortion.studio

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#24 Christopher Nichols: Ray Tracing, Chaos and another way

Starting Pixel — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 08:17:52 +0000

Christopher Nichols is a connector of dots across storytelling, technology, and innovation. As Director of Chaos Labs and host of the CG Garage Podcast, Christopher has spent years in the VFX, architecture, and creative industries, helping shape how artists adopt new technologies—from ray tracing to real-time rendering. In this episode, we explore his unique perspective on the convergence of art and tech, the steady rise of digital humans, and the role of AI in content creation. We also get into the behind-the-scenes of how new tools are tested, debated, and embraced across creative pipelines—and why sometimes the biggest shift isn’t the tech itself, but how people learn to trust it.

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#22 Nina Willment: Research and Turning the Tables

Starting Pixel — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 19:25:35 +0000

Dr. Nina Willment — an academic researcher exploring how emerging technologies are transforming creative industries — asked to interview our host, Rob Chandler. So we turned the tables and hit record. In this candid conversation, Nina digs into Rob’s unexpected journey from tech marketing to virtual production, the highs and lows of building the Starting Pixel community, and what it really means to bridge the gap between technology and traditional storytelling. It’s a curious, reflective, and sometimes surprising look behind the scenes of Starting Pixel — from the one asking the questions… to the one answering them.

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#21 Biro Florin: Why build a Virtual Production Studio? No, really, why?

Starting Pixel — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 12:20:12 +0000

This week on The Starting Pixel Podcast, we’re joined by Biro Florin—entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Jexo. Best known for building and exiting a SaaS startup in the Atlassian ecosystem, Biro’s latest pivot takes him into the world of virtual production. We dive into the challenges of setting up a VP studio from scratch with no prior filmmaking experience, lessons from SaaS that surprisingly translate, and why storytelling, process, and tooling still matter—regardless of industry. It’s an honest, inspiring conversation for anyone bridging the creative and technical in this fast-evolving content landscape.

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#20 Cesar Caceres: GenLock, Sync and other dark arts

Starting Pixel — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 17:25:45 +0000

This week on The Starting Pixel Podcast, we’re joined by Cesar Caceres, Product Lead at Brompton Technology. With deep expertise in video systems and real-time media, Cesar breaks down the vital—but often invisible—role of genlock and signal sync in virtual production. It’s the tech that keeps everything in perfect time.

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#19 Rich Welsh: SMPTE, a very old thing and a very new thing

Starting Pixel — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 20:59:28 +0000

Rich is the president of SMPTE, he does stuff with AI and Deluxe. He’s a father and engineer and DJ… Today’s episode we talk about a lot of stuff which can only be part one or a longer series of podcasts.

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#18 Scot Barbour: AI, Real time Previz and Virtual Production, tell us more…

Starting Pixel — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 13:14:40 +0000

In this conversation, Rob Chandler interviews Scot Barber, a seasoned filmmaker and innovator in virtual production. Scot shares his journey from working at Apple and Sony Pictures to developing cutting-edge technology at VOIA. They discuss the evolution of virtual production, the impact of AI on filmmaking, and the importance of empowering new voices in the industry. Scott emphasizes the need for democratization in filmmaking, allowing anyone with a story to tell to access the tools they need to create.

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#17 Olivia Farrar: What does VAD mean and why we should care?

Starting Pixel — Sun, 01 Jun 2025 19:25:37 +0000

In this episode of the Starting Pixel Podcast, host Rob Chandler interviews Olivia Farrar, a VFX expert and founder of All Groovy. Olivia shares her journey from growing up in New Zealand to working at renowned studios like Weta Digital and Imaginarium. She discusses her passion for motion capture, the evolution of virtual production, and the importance of bridging the gap between creative and technical teams in filmmaking. Olivia also emphasizes the significance of leadership and teamwork in the VFX industry, as well as the innovations in real-time VFX and keying techniques that are shaping the future of visual storytelling.

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Vodded at the VeePod Studios in Soho London

#16 Andrea Longo: Using AI for smart searching of vast video catalogues

Starting Pixel — Sat, 17 May 2025 15:12:33 +0000

In this episode of the Startin' Pixel podcast, host Rob Chandler speaks with Andrea Longo about the transformative role of AI in media production. They discuss the challenges of content discovery, the limitations of traditional methods, and how AI can enhance media management through smart video tagging and analysis. Andrea shares insights into real-time applications of AI, particularly in political communication, and demonstrates the capabilities of AI in video management. The conversation concludes with a look at future applications and the ongoing development of AI technologies in the media industry.

Andrea's details:

w: neodatagroup.ai/

e: andrea.longo@neodatagroup.ai

LinkedIn: andreagiorgiolongo

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#15 Ed Tracy: So what’s all this AI actually all about?

Starting Pixel — Sat, 03 May 2025 13:59:14 +0000

In this episode our guest is Ed Tracy, a filmmaker and YouTube creator who has successfully transitioned into the world of AI and animation. We discuss the evolution of content creation from traditional TV to online platforms, the impact of AI on filmmaking, and the importance of collaboration in creative projects. Ed shares his journey of building a viral YouTube channel focused on AI-generated content and explores the future of virtual production and AI in the film industry.

Watch Kiwadoi CAMERA, the YouTube channel discussed HERE

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#14 James Dinsdale: Metahumans, performance capture and how to direct it in real-time

Starting Pixel — Sat, 03 May 2025 13:36:29 +0000

In this episode of the Starting Pixel podcast, Rob Chandler interviews James Dinsdale from Dimensions Studio, who shares insights into virtual production and his journey in the film industry. They discuss the technical aspects of virtual production, including motion capture, LED technology, and lighting techniques. James explains the setup of a recent demo at their new studio, Evergreen, showcasing the capabilities of live tracking and dynamic lighting. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding virtual production and its practical applications in filmmaking, emphasizing how it can enhance storytelling while reducing costs.

The full video James was talking though "MetaHumans Driven by Live Motion-Capture on an LED volume for ICVFX"

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#13 Quentin Jorquera: Virtual Production is Dead, Long Live Virtual Production

Starting Pixel — Thu, 24 Apr 2025 08:24:00 +0000

In this episode of the Starting Pixel podcast, host Rob Chandler speaks with cinematographer Quentin Jorquera about his unique journey in the film industry, transitioning from traditional cinematography to virtual production. They discuss the emotional aspects of cinematography, the importance of storytelling amidst evolving technology, and the practicalities of building virtual production stages. Quentin shares insights on his experiences working in various locations and the challenges and opportunities presented by virtual production, emphasizing the need for collaboration and understanding among all departments involved in filmmaking.

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#12 Alex Grona: Real-time Scanning, Integrating Data into Virtual Production

Starting Pixel — Mon, 21 Apr 2025 20:12:58 +0000

This week we are talking to Alex Grona, a games developer who now mixes GenAI, mobile phones and gaming platforms to merge the real with the metaverse.

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#11 Andy Harris: Automated Props, UE and Triggers

Starting Pixel — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 16:25:03 +0000

In this episode of the Starting Pixel podcast, Rob Chandler interviews Andy Harris, the CTO and founder of Automated Film Props. They discuss the innovative technology behind automated props that interact with actors and virtual environments, enhancing storytelling in film. Andy shares his journey from cybersecurity to filmmaking, explaining how automated props can revolutionize the industry by allowing real-time interactions and reducing the need for post-production fixes. The conversation also touches on the challenges and creative possibilities that come with integrating technology into film production.

Contact for Andy

youtube.com/@AutomatedFilmProps/videos

andy@automatedfilmprops.com

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#10 Phil Ellingson: Robotic Camera Arms and the Future of Virtual Production

Starting Pixel — Tue, 01 Apr 2025 07:52:36 +0000

In this conversation, Rob Chandler interviews Phil Ellingson, the Director of Sales and Marketing at Sisu Cinema Robotics. They discuss the innovative use of robotic arms in filmmaking, exploring how these technologies are transforming the industry by enabling dynamic camera movements, enhancing visual effects, and improving safety on set. Phil shares insights into the logistics of using robotic arms, their applications in virtual production, and the creative possibilities they unlock for filmmakers. The conversation also touches on the future of robotics in filmmaking and the importance of adapting to new technologies.

For more details on Sisu Robotics: www.sisucinemarobotics.com

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#9 Stuart Rivas: A Virtual Production vs Physical Set Comparison

Starting Pixel — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 15:41:13 -0100

In this episode of the Starting Pixel Podcast, filmmaker and visual effects specialist Stuart Rivas shares his journey from Venezuela to Spain, exploring the evolution of his career in filmmaking and virtual production. He discusses the impact of technology on storytelling, particularly through the use of Unreal Engine, and provides insights into the unique film 'The Gift,' which he created during his master's program. The conversation delves into the nuances of virtual production, its misconceptions, and the creative freedom it offers filmmakers. In this conversation, Stuart Rivas discusses the advantages and challenges of virtual production compared to traditional filmmaking. He emphasises the importance of pre-visualisation, planning, and the need for technical knowledge among crew members. Rivas also addresses the barriers to adopting virtual production, including costs and technical expertise, while highlighting the potential for enhanced production values and adaptability in storytelling.

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#8 Zoltan Batho: Developing the Virtual Production Workforce

Starting Pixel — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 07:00:00 -0100

In this conversation, Rob Chandler interviews Zoltan Batho, an award-winning producer and educator, about the evolution of film technology, particularly focusing on virtual production, augmented reality, and the role of education in preparing students for the industry. Zoltan shares his journey from Hungary to leading innovative projects in the film industry, discussing the impact of COVID-19, the importance of partnerships, and the upcoming Virtual Production Gathering at Breda University.

To book tickets for The VP Gathering on the 9th and 10th April 2025, head to vpgathering.com

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#7 Sarah Thomas Moffat: A Cinematographers Virtual Production Journey

Starting Pixel — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 17:27:41 -0100

In this episode of the Starting Pixel Podcast, hosts Rob and Michelle welcome Sarah Thomas Moffat, a distinguished cinematographer with over 25 years of experience. The conversation explores Sarah's journey into cinematography, her transition to virtual production, and the challenges and misconceptions surrounding this innovative technology. They discuss the importance of collaboration, the technical aspects of virtual production, and the evolving role of cinematographers in the industry. Sarah shares valuable insights and advice for aspiring cinematographers, emphasizing the need for trust and creative collaboration in storytelling.

e: hello@sarahthomasmoffat.com

Insta: @SThomasMoffat

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#6 Gianni Piechota: A Viral Virtual Production Breakdown

Starting Pixel — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 15:15:50 -0100

In this episode, Rob and Michelle discuss the evolution of virtual production with guest Gianni Piechota, a Berlin-based camera assistant and gaffer. They explore Gianni's journey into filmmaking, the technical aspects of virtual production, and the creative process behind his viral video. The conversation highlights the benefits and challenges of using technology in filmmaking, as well as the future of the industry.

Gianni's Instagram Video here

Shot this short clip to present some of the creative and technical possibilities that come with #virtualproduction
This scene has a live-tracked camera, DMX-controlled lights and time and location switches.
Cast: @bine.hei
UE-OP: @giannimooo
SteadyCam: @nico.nolan
Gaffer: @dominic_heim
Rental: @camelot.berlinBecome a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.

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#5 James Uran: Building Virtual Production from scratch with Unreal Engine

Starting Pixel — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 14:44:22 -0100

The Starting Pixel Podcast is talking to James Uren about tapping into Unreal Engine for filmmaking.Previously a director, editor, sound designer, 3D, James has a BAFTA award, his focus is a Technical Director specialising in virtual production.

Find James here

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#4 Eric Hasso: The Art of Capturing Locations for Virtual Production

Starting Pixel — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 00:17:19 -0100

This week’s Starting Pixel Podcast guest is Eric Hasso, based in Sweden, and an innovator in in-camera-VFX.Having created Igelkott Studios, Eric innovates with projector based virtual production and One Lens 360 plates.

Videos shown on the Podcast Episode

Next Generation Car Scenes

360 Driving Plate Library

Igelkott Showreel

Igelkott website: www.igelkottstudios.com

Contact: hello@igelkottstudios.se

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#3 Will Coleman: Why aren’t corporates rushing to use Virtual Production?

Starting Pixel — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 14:14:14 -0100

In this conversation, Rob and Will Coleman discuss Will's extensive career in technology and innovation, focusing on his experiences at major companies like Microsoft and Salesforce. They delve into the concept of virtual production, exploring its potential for corporate storytelling and content creation. Will shares insights on the challenges and misconceptions surrounding virtual production, as well as its value in enhancing corporate communications. The discussion concludes with Will's future projects and ongoing interest in the evolving landscape of virtual production.

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#2 Dan Mulligan: Colour: How Hard Can It Be?

Starting Pixel — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 17:27:40 -0100

In this conversation, Rob interviews Dan Mulligan, an expert in colour science and virtual production. Dan shares his journey from being a camera truck driver to becoming a leading figure in digital cinematography and colour science. He discusses the evolution of virtual production, the importance of colour accuracy, and the misconceptions surrounding the technology. The conversation delves into the technical aspects of LED technology, the role of colour in filmmaking, and the future of virtual production.

Visit ColorQ: www.color-q.com

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#1 Ross Floyd: AI, Cinematics, Advertising and more…

Starting Pixel — Sun, 23 Feb 2025 14:15:22 -0100

In this episode of the Starting Pixel podcast, host Rob welcomes Ross Floyd, a filmmaker and virtual production expert. They discuss the evolution of filmmaking, the definition and implications of virtual production, and the challenges and misconceptions surrounding it. Ross shares his journey into the world of virtual production, highlighting key moments that shaped his understanding and approach. The conversation delves into the scalability of virtual production, its applications in advertising, and the impact of AI on the industry. Ross emphasises the importance of creativity and storytelling in leveraging virtual production technology effectively.Contact Ross: ross@rossfloyd.com

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Trailer

Starting Pixel — Sat, 22 Feb 2025 10:47:00 -0100

Welcome to The Starting Pixel Podcast, where the boundaries between real and virtual filmmaking blur. Hosted by Rob Chandler and Michelle Bonnard, we dive deep into the tech revolution transforming film, TV, advertising, and beyond.

From LED volumes and in-camera VFX to AI-assisted workflows and virtual scouting, we cut through the hype, break down what works (and what doesn’t), and bring you insights from industry insiders, tech pioneers, and creators shaping the future.

No jargon, just real conversations with real impact. Whether you’re an industry pro or just getting started, this is your Backstage Pass to the Future of Filmmaking.