The pixel dust =)
I can help you strategize and breakdown visual effects shots in pre-production, so they are doable within the budget of the film. Incredible results can be achieved, on indie budgets, if on-set capture is done correctly.
I work with directors, consulting in the planning stage, to support shot list building. This work is done with the help of cutting-edge previsualization tools like Unreal Engine, Blender and Nuke.
How the remote planning works?
The strategy is done way before shooting days, remotely, so it doesn't matter where you are, I can help you breakdown and nail the planning for the visual effects sequences you have. It includes the correct use of green screens, trackers, lighting techniques, focus racking, exposure control, color pipelines, file management pipelines, and other technicalities that are key to a smooth (and cheap) post-production.
An indie horror short shot in only five hours, in film (super 16mm), using an Arri SR3. With the help of game engine previsualization, all complicated shots listed were achieved on time with low stress and high accuracy.
Questions we are always asked
How much it will cost to grade my short film?
We like to give each project proper attention to details, that said, for pricing purposes: We consider 3-10 minutes of footage / day, depending on the project. Our base daily rate is £600, minimum of two days. We also have the super low-budget DIY Setup + Masters option for a fixed £650. In this option we'll grade 3 master shots and deliver a Resolve (PRJ) file back to you with the color pipeline correctly configured, so you can DIY from there.
Keep in mind there are factors that slow things down: Multi-camera, conforming issues etc. We'll send you instructions to help you make sure your files are in good shape for supply, so we can hit the ground running and focus the time on creating production value for you.
"We actually do care" policy:
Our "we actually do care" policy exists to support storytelling and crafty deliverables. Here's how it works:
We price per day to keep up with budgeting standards. If we notice the job could benefit from extra magic touches we will communicate and get consent from you to take a bit longer. We won't charge you for the extra care we proposed to put in. If there is no change to the agreed scope (amount of footage/ scenes) there is no extra charge.
How can I get a quote for VFX work?
There are two approaches to getting a quote from us on the VFX work you need.
Option 1: We have been involved since the beginning.
In this case, we will help you break down the script to find out where VFX will be needed and advise you on how to shoot scenes so they are cheaper for you and more believable in the end.
Option 2: You did your thing and need help.
In this case, you will send us a list of things that you want modified, along with references and assets you already have.
In both cases, we will send you an email with detailed instructions on what we need.
Where are you located?
We are based in the UK, a quick 20 min ride from London Paddington. That said, we provide fully remote color, visual effects and music services for clients worldwide.
Do you work with commercial and music videos?
Absolutely.
How much is the remote VFX planning session?
It includes advice on the correct use of green screens, trackers, lighting techniques, focus racking, exposure control, color pipelines, file management pipelines, and other technicalities
Breakdown and price:
1) You will send your shot list with the plan and highlighted VFX shots.
2) I will schedule the initial call (2 h) where we will discuss the list.
3) I will send you a breakdown plan for every shot needing VFX, with my advice on how to shoot them properly and a broad-strokes breakdown of the post-production approach to composite the shot.
What is included?
Shot list analysis, Two hour consultation call, Technical plan for the set (PDF delivery).
Price for the package:
- £850 (up to ten shots)
Extras (for an additional fee):
Add shots (£85/ shot), On set supervision (in person or remote), Other consultation calls.
What files I need to provide for Grading?
You'll need a picture lock cut. No changes to edit after grading starts. This will help you save money and achieve consistency throughout the grading process.
Remote Grading:
All you need to provide us with is a lossless Prores 444 (or similar highest possible quality) render of your picture lock cut.
Grading + Conform:
If you are supplying hard drives with RAW camera footage, we will send you detailed instructions on how to groom and export the timeline for grading so we can achieve the best results possible.
How many reviews do I get?
For Grading or VFX workflows, you get two review rounds, and it should suffice for most projects. If you need more review rounds, we can provide them at an additional cost.
How Witchery came to be?
Just take a look at the disheartening post-production stories on Reddit. As filmmakers, we've been there. We've lost money, got our footage wrecked, and, in the end, had to redo it all ourselves.
Story-aware post-production work is not easy to find, and it is especially harder for low-budget productions. We want to help indie filmmakers tell their stories.
Tell me about the overall workflow.
We will be discussing story and moods at the beginning of the project and then meet for remote review rounds. Our client engagement workflow is completely automated and runs on top of widely adopted industry standard tools like Frame.io. No materials or notes are ever exchanged via email or files through third-party transfer sites. This also avoids messy, untraceable back and forth and keeps everyone informed, happy, and the project moving.