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SMASH Virtual is Chicago’s Emmy-winning virtual production studio! Located in the South Loop, SMASH has served Chicago’s film, television, and commercial industries since 2022.
https://youtu.be/bfC30oiJTEE?si=vTQyNyT_18hASda5
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SMASH is committed to lowering the barrier to entry and increasing comfort with virtual production techniques. As such, we are piloting these onboarding programs for individuals, small productions, and students.
Applications are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. These programs allow specific productions (Indie films, commercials, camera tests, etc) to utilize the studio for free in exchange for a mandatory training session.
Contact [email protected] for any questions!
Includes: 6-hour training, 1x 10-hour shoot day credit
Originally invented for The Mandalorian, ICVP utilizes fully 3D environments built in Unreal Engine along with a realtime camera tracking system to create customizable sets that react to the camera.
This program allows productions to utilize this technique for their project, and includes use of an environment from SMASH’s stock library, as well as SMASH’s volume operations team.
During the training, applicants will learn the entire ICVP process, how to communicate with the VP stage crew, best practices, and common pitfalls.
Includes: 3-hour training, 1x 8-hour shoot day credit
Vehicle process is one of the most common use cases for LED stages, and is a standard technique used on most modern productions!
This program provides an introduction to LED car process, showcasing the techniques used on shows like Chicago Fire and Dark Matter, along with usage of a driving plate set from SMASH’s stock library.
Includes: 2-hour training, 1x 8-hour shoot day credit
Not every production needs a full-blown Unreal Engine environment. Simple 2D video or stills plates can provide great impact for much less time and money.
This program explains how to best utilize simple 2D backgrounds for maximum impact. We’ll explain what to look for when sourcing or shooting plates, limitations and how to work around them, and best practices when shooting. Applicants can use their own plates to shoot with.