jdford
New Member
Hey Folks,
Wasn't entirely sure where to start this thread, and I may catch some flak for putting it here (hope not, 'cause I don't know where else to put it, and it's not *really* off-topic). [/caveat]
I'm putting together a fun little project...I'll be attempting to recreate classic Star Wars (Original Trilogy) scale model VFX shots with modern motion control and digital cinema photography. Basically, that means I'll be shooting against a chroma key screen, with whatever motion control rig I'm able to get my hands on. Actually, that's the only piece of the puzzle I have yet to sort out.
I've already secured access to a shooting location with sufficient open space and clearance to set up the screens, lights, models, and precision track. I have access to an Arri Alexa-M digital cinema camera with a 120fps high speed package, and I can most likely get my hands on a Phantom if I really need to. Lights, check. Camera support gear and AKS, check. Power, check.
For models, we'll actually be using large Lego sets. That's right...Legos. I'm not a scale modeler, and I don't have the time or funds to have several OT Star Wars ships built. What I do have is access to a lot of Star Wars Lego kits, and someone who can put them together and "kitbash" like a true Legomaniac. So, for stand-ins, I'm hopeful they'll do alright.
Don't get me wrong, I'd rather shoot legitimate studio scale models. But since this is a DIY, shoe-string budget, "Can I do this in my garage?" (I'm not shooting in my garage, it's just an expression) kind of project...I'll take what I can get. And by incorporating the Legos into the theme of the project, it makes it a little unique, actually.
I'm still pulling together some logistics (like sorting out the motion control), but here's a publicity shot of the camera we'll be using:
And the actual camera we'll be shooting with (one of the two pictured, at least):
(Please excuse the messy work area...had a busy day.)
Frankly, I'm excited. I've always wanted to see if it was possible to do this...without a massive budget, sound stage, etc. And it might not be possible. I honestly don't know. I've been doing a lot of research and reading on the subject. And even if the whole thing fails miserably it'll be a constructive learning experience.
More updates to follow.
~J. D.
Wasn't entirely sure where to start this thread, and I may catch some flak for putting it here (hope not, 'cause I don't know where else to put it, and it's not *really* off-topic). [/caveat]
I'm putting together a fun little project...I'll be attempting to recreate classic Star Wars (Original Trilogy) scale model VFX shots with modern motion control and digital cinema photography. Basically, that means I'll be shooting against a chroma key screen, with whatever motion control rig I'm able to get my hands on. Actually, that's the only piece of the puzzle I have yet to sort out.
I've already secured access to a shooting location with sufficient open space and clearance to set up the screens, lights, models, and precision track. I have access to an Arri Alexa-M digital cinema camera with a 120fps high speed package, and I can most likely get my hands on a Phantom if I really need to. Lights, check. Camera support gear and AKS, check. Power, check.
For models, we'll actually be using large Lego sets. That's right...Legos. I'm not a scale modeler, and I don't have the time or funds to have several OT Star Wars ships built. What I do have is access to a lot of Star Wars Lego kits, and someone who can put them together and "kitbash" like a true Legomaniac. So, for stand-ins, I'm hopeful they'll do alright.
Don't get me wrong, I'd rather shoot legitimate studio scale models. But since this is a DIY, shoe-string budget, "Can I do this in my garage?" (I'm not shooting in my garage, it's just an expression) kind of project...I'll take what I can get. And by incorporating the Legos into the theme of the project, it makes it a little unique, actually.
I'm still pulling together some logistics (like sorting out the motion control), but here's a publicity shot of the camera we'll be using:
And the actual camera we'll be shooting with (one of the two pictured, at least):
(Please excuse the messy work area...had a busy day.)
Frankly, I'm excited. I've always wanted to see if it was possible to do this...without a massive budget, sound stage, etc. And it might not be possible. I honestly don't know. I've been doing a lot of research and reading on the subject. And even if the whole thing fails miserably it'll be a constructive learning experience.
More updates to follow.
~J. D.
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