Studio + Motion
Simple Shoots with Sophisticated Motion
Sometimes, all you need is a white cyc, a camera, and to be inventive. These films all began with a straightforward studio setup, clean, controlled, and with a few props. They come to life with the introduction of layered motion graphics that build the story, context, and energy of the film. Minimal production, maximum impact. So, whether it’s adding visual metaphors, data visualisation, or just a bit of creative flair, adding motion graphics within a simple set up has helped elevate these simple studio shoots into something bold and hopefully a little bit more memorable.
I’ve directed numerous films using this approach. Each one begins with a clear storyboard and a detailed animatic that maps out exactly how the final film will look and the best approach to shooting. This process provides clients with a clear visual guide from the outset and ensures we’re all aligned before entering the studio. There has only been one hiccup, but that was from the client changing their mind after the fact, so I don’t feel like I can take the blame for that one. I developed the initial concepts through to directing on set, and finally compositing the motion graphics into the live-action footage. Having control from the outset minimises the problems encountered on-set and then in-post to make some visually engaging films about subjects that aren’t necessarily the most riveting to talk about.
PROCESS
Depending on the needs of the film, I’ve used everything from motion-controlled camera setups to simple electronic turntables, whatever served the budget best. These live-action elements are then composited with or within the motion-graphic and 3D environments, built natively in Cinema 4D and After Effects.
