We’re building a full pre-visualisation system which I mentioned last week, that will help us tackle the following questions:
a. What does the massed movement look like?
b. Can we build our Cueing system for the Mass Crane Dance?
c. What movements read well?
d. What does it feel like to be inside, operating a crane?
e. What would the drivers be expecting?
f. Can we choreograph duets and trios in amongst the larger piece?
g. What are the best view points for drone filming for live events?
h. What are the best filming positions?
i. What narrative and team operational systems does it reveal?
j. Where would you capture the best long exposure photographs?
Innovation:
Using commercial film techniques for artistic innovation: We are building our pre-visualisation system in Maya, which is cutting edge animation software. Using manufacturers information we can build 3d crane models and accurately simulate their movement qualities and positions across a city skyline. This allows us to adapt and refine the choreography, investigate best view points and filming angles and develop accurate cue sheets for each crane/ group of cranes. We can also export this as video footage and high-quality ‘teaser stills’. The data from the cranes in the simulation will be used for the sculpture prototyping.
First Nth Screen test whilst working with my fabulous Crane Operator David
We’re also using the prototype performance in bristol to develop new filming techniques that tackle:
a. Can we document this satisfyingly?
b. What angles can you capture it from?
c. How will working with drones work in this instance?
d. How will working with ‘found/ informal’ footage work?
e. Can you capture the massed movement?
f. What is the potential music video/ legacy documents/ documentary films for this?
Innovation:
How can live events be captured for diverse broadcast and online reach: How do you present movement footage with the same impact, grace, panache and reach as commercial event and commercials? Using the same techniques, we will create a fantastic legacy document for the project that helps the London partners convince their boards. It will be premiered on the main stage at WIRED 2015.
Matthew Bjerregaard from Visual Persistence is developing ground breaking drone filming techniques including underwater drone filming, and long exposure motion control rig techniques for layering camera footage (Creating filmed light painting). Matt is running a 4 day workshop next month for the BBC R and D team and works closely with BBC Manchester and the natural History department developing innovative camera methods.
Drew Cox is our Director of Photography and one of London’s most dynamic and exciting music film makers. He specialises in a rich visual style that celebrates urban environments and technology. His music videos have gone viral pushing numerous artists into the mainstream. His work has been seen by over 10 million viewers.
Nth Screen is the groundbreaking synchronised multiple camera capture system which we are using for short viral mosaic films for release on Instagram, Twitter and Vimeo etc.