The integration of virtual production techniques has dramatically reshaped broadcasting workflows. This isn't just a trend; it's a core strategy, impacting news, sports, and studio operations. The shift from relying on physical sets to virtual environments offers significant advantages, including cost savings and unparalleled creative flexibility.
This analysis delves into the ongoing debate surrounding green screens versus LED volumes, the complexities of technical integration, and the significant influence of Hollywood's advancements on live broadcast technology. The discussion also highlights the accessibility and scalability of these technologies, shifting the conversation from deployment to the vast creative opportunities they unlock.
Mathieu Mazerolle (Foundry) notes, "Virtual production has evolved in meaning over time. In film, it originally referred to the pre-visualization techniques James Cameron used making “Avatar.” A few years ago, the term got rebranded around game engines and LED volumes for film and TV. Today, it describes a broader set of techniques that blend photographic and virtual imagery in real time. In that sense, broadcast has actually been a pioneer in virtual production for decades. What’s new is how Hollywood is using the technique to push the boundaries of quality and realism with large-scale in-camera VFX. I fully expect broadcasters to increasingly harness these capabilities to enhance the program quality—which is one reason Foundry is investing in the space."
Onur Can Gulenc (Zero Density) observes, "On the global scale, the US is catching up to its European counterparts. The adoption will continue to increase as emerging technologies like generative AI assist in content generation, keying and masking, making a lot of big-budget, time-consuming items in the past more accessible. This allows for small and medium-scale channels to utilize it more easily since existing graphics production skills can be enough instead of establishing a large team with varied specialties."
Miguel Churruca (Brainstorm) emphasizes the multifaceted benefits: "Virtual production is becoming a widely used technology, and broadcasters now realize that its benefits go far beyond the ability to create scenes that do not exist. In broadcast, the reduction of props and set construction, and the optimization of real estate is a significant benefit for televisions. What customers ask for is hyperrealism, and of course, flexibility for creating different content for a variety of applications. This means that the tools must ensure not only a perfectly realistic background scene, but also the ability to include data-driven graphics, control of other hardware such as studio lights, and the compatibility with broadcast workflows."
Steve Taylor (Vizrt) highlights the diverse approaches: "There’s an interesting division between customers where some really like to go sort of broadcasting from a room covered with a green screen and using our tech exclusively, and others still prefer physical screens and LEDs and relying on real environments. And it is quite interesting to see how that’s evolving. I don’t see any clear winner at the moment, which is kind of good for both sides. And then we’re trying to sort of break through that by removing the green screen so I can do the same thing in any environment."
The discussion further explores the advantages of virtual production, including enhanced storytelling, cost-effectiveness, and increased efficiency. Experts also address the challenges, such as the initial investment in technology and the need for skilled personnel. The future of virtual production in broadcasting is bright, with continued advancements in technology promising even more immersive and engaging experiences for viewers.