Systems integrator CJP Broadcast Service Solutions, has won a tender to build a virtual production environment for Solent University in the UK.
The new facilities, converted from an existing studio space, will provide students on the film production courses with outstanding opportunities to develop their creative output.
The studio will feature a very large, 10m x 3m LED wall with a 4m x 2m ceiling panel for volumetric operations. The wall uses AOTO LED panels, powered by a network of Brompton video processors.
The virtual graphics are generated by the Mo-Sys VP Pro XR. This multi-node server, powered by the Unreal Engine, is designed specifically for final pixel virtual shoots, and includes technologies such as the ability to pull focus between real and virtual objects.
As part of the project, CJP is also supplying a Red Komodo 6k camera, with Sigma cinematic lenses. For virtual production the camera is fitted with the new, lightweight, and miniaturised Mo-Sys StarTracker Max system, a first for a UK university, which tracks a random pattern of dots on the studio ceiling to derive very precise camera positional information in XYZ space, and pan, tilt and rotation.
CJP is also installing the new Mimik lighting tile, one of its first installations in the UK. This LED light source interprets the incoming video signal and adjusts its colour temperature in real time to achieve a seamless match between the live foreground and the virtual background, as well as providing very high light levels when required.
“Virtual production is at the forefront of film today,” said Christopher Woolford, technical instructor for camera and post-production at Solent University. “Our aim is to give our students the best opportunities, and using the same techniques as in major film and television releases means we can prepare them for their chosen industry.”
"We've always prided ourselves on giving students real-world learning opportunities so that they are fully prepared for whatever role they land in industry," added Ken Pitts, course leader for CGI and VFX at Solent University. "The new virtual production facility supplied by CJP is going to open up a whole raft of new opportunities for our students in highly sought after roles."