SIRT invited local and international experts as well as academics from around the world to a virtual production workshop featuring commentary by Chris Edwards—CEO of the world’s largest previsualization company, The Third Floor. As a follow-up to Chris’ TIFF Bell Lightbox presentation “The Past, Present & Future of Visualization”, SIRT presented a series of hands-on demonstrations showcasing the centre’s technology, research and abilities in motion capture, virtual cinematography and simulcam solutions. Academics learned how to incorporate new virtual production workflows and technology into their teachings while industry professionals networked with experts in the field. SIRT’s newest acquisition, the SolidTrack markerless camera tracking solution was the highlight of the presentation. The SolidTrack system is capable of both real-time compositing in a green-screen shot as well as integrating live action with motion capture performances. The technology will be used in the making of upcoming Avatar films. The workshop’s innovative content was only matched by its venue: SIRT’s new 10,000-square-foot, 4K-projection-capable sound stage at Pinewood. The event attracted virtual production forerunners and SIRT partners General Lift, Animatrik, and SolidAnim (developers of SolidTrack).
