The Starting Pixel Podcast

In this episode of The Starting Pixel Podcast, Rob is joined by John Murphy, Design Director at BBC Sport, for a deep dive into the creative and technical realities of virtual studios in live broadcast.John reflects on BBC Sport’s early adoption of real-time game engines, green screen, and later XR and LED workflows—beginning with Match of the Day and evolving through major global events including the Olympics, World Cups, and European Championships. He shares candid insight into balancing creativity within engineering-led environments, managing risk in live transmission, and bringing presenters, directors, and operations teams along on the journey.The conversation explores what it really takes to design virtual broadcast environments that serve editorial purpose rather than spectacle, the lessons learned from early virtual studios, and how hybrid approaches combining real locations with virtual elements often deliver the strongest results.A practical, experience-led discussion on virtual production for broadcast—covering green screen, Unreal Engine, LED XR, creative process, and why technology should always support the story, not distract from it.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

Filmmaker and YouTuber Joshua M Kerr joins Rob Chandler at the Dean Street Podcast Studio to unpack the rise of YouTube-first virtual production and what it means for indie creators. Joshua shares how his fascination with The Mandalorian led him from claymation to building one of the most practical and educational VP channels on YouTube.Together they dive deep into accessible filmmaking tech — from low-cost LED panels and green screen workflows to real-time tracking with iPhones — exploring how Unreal Engine, AI, and virtual production are redefining what’s possible for storytellers without blockbuster budgets.They discuss the creative freedom these tools unlock, the ongoing myths around “expensive” virtual production, and how today’s “lo-fi done right” approach might just be the next revolution in independent filmmaking.🎥 Topics include:Building a VP channel from scratchLow-budget real-time filmmakingGreen screen vs LED vs AI keyingCreative paralysis inside UnrealMonetisation and creator burnout on YouTubeThe future of indie virtual productionMore from Joshua M Kerr: www.youtube.com/@JoshuaMKerre: joshuamkerr@gmail.comwww.joshuamkerr.comRecorded at The Dean Street Podcast Studio, powered by VeePod.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this episode of The Starting Pixel Podcast, Rob Chandler talks with Tucker Downs, colour scientist at ROE Visual, about the hidden science behind LED panels in virtual production. Tucker breaks down the essentials of pixel pitch, brightness, scan ratios, reflectance, and why these factors matter to filmmakers and cinematographers. The conversation explores how colour order systems like Munsell and standards such as Rec.709 and ACES shape what we see on screen, and why cameras and LED walls don’t always “see” colour the same way. Tucker also unpacks the challenge of moiré patterns, the compromises in LED wall design, and how RGB vs. full-spectrum solutions affect skin tones and immersion. The discussion closes with perspectives on the economics of large vs. smaller VP stages, how AI might streamline shot planning and workflows, and where LED panel technology is heading.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this conversation, Rob Chandler and David C. Smith delve into the fascinating world of virtual production, particularly focusing on driving plates and the technology that enhances realism in filmmaking. They discuss the evolution of driving techniques, the importance of 360-degree filming, and the challenges of managing data in high-fidelity productions. The conversation also touches on the role of Unreal Engine in creating immersive environments and the future of driving plates in the film industry.Plate Prosemail: contact@platepros.comInsta: www.instagram.com/plate_proswww.platepros.comBecome a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this episode, Rob talks with Sam Kemp from Garden Studios about the rapid evolution of virtual production and its real-world applications. Sam shares his journey from indie filmmaking into VP, the growth of Garden Studios since 2021, and how they balance permanent and bespoke LED stage builds. They explore where VP adds the most value—like driving scenes, pickups, and complex environments—plus the importance of early creative involvement, hands-on training for crews, and R&D showcases such as their stunt-filled “train fight” demo. The conversation also covers cost-efficiency, industry misconceptions, and the future of VP in advertising, drama, and beyond.Follow Garden On Socials:Instagram: ⁠www.instagram.com/gardenstudioshq/LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/gardenstudioshq/Facebook: www.facebook.com/GardenStudiosHQ/Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

Ben Saffer has worn many hats in the film industry—from music video director to DIT on productions like Black Mirror and No Time to Die, to DP and Virtual Production Supervisor. In this episode of The Starting Pixel Podcast, Ben shares how reading a RED camera manual launched his career, why storytelling remains the hardest skill to master, and how technology like Unreal Engine, AI, and his new app “Shotpad” are reshaping filmmaking. We explore the hype versus reality of AI and virtual production, the evolving craft of cinematography, and the future tools filmmakers should be building for themselves.

Jonathan Brigden is the founder of Studio Giggle and co-owner of Distortion Studio, but his journey to running cutting-edge virtual production spaces is far from typical. Originally trained as a professional cellist, Jonathan made the leap from performing on stage to orchestrating immersive experiences for clients around the world. In this episode, we unpack how he combined a love for storytelling, music, and technology to build studios that push creative boundaries — from interactive events to real-time virtual production. It’s a conversation about reinvention, resilience, and why he believes creativity always comes first.Contact Jonathan: jon@distortion.studiowww.distortion.studioBecome a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

Christopher Nichols is a connector of dots across storytelling, technology, and innovation. As Director of Chaos Labs and host of the CG Garage Podcast, Christopher has spent years in the VFX, architecture, and creative industries, helping shape how artists adopt new technologies—from ray tracing to real-time rendering. In this episode, we explore his unique perspective on the convergence of art and tech, the steady rise of digital humans, and the role of AI in content creation. We also get into the behind-the-scenes of how new tools are tested, debated, and embraced across creative pipelines—and why sometimes the biggest shift isn’t the tech itself, but how people learn to trust it.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

Dr. Nina Willment — an academic researcher exploring how emerging technologies are transforming creative industries — asked to interview our host, Rob Chandler. So we turned the tables and hit record. In this candid conversation, Nina digs into Rob’s unexpected journey from tech marketing to virtual production, the highs and lows of building the Starting Pixel community, and what it really means to bridge the gap between technology and traditional storytelling. It’s a curious, reflective, and sometimes surprising look behind the scenes of Starting Pixel — from the one asking the questions… to the one answering them.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

This week on The Starting Pixel Podcast, we’re joined by Biro Florin—entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of Jexo. Best known for building and exiting a SaaS startup in the Atlassian ecosystem, Biro’s latest pivot takes him into the world of virtual production. We dive into the challenges of setting up a VP studio from scratch with no prior filmmaking experience, lessons from SaaS that surprisingly translate, and why storytelling, process, and tooling still matter—regardless of industry. It’s an honest, inspiring conversation for anyone bridging the creative and technical in this fast-evolving content landscape.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

This week on The Starting Pixel Podcast, we’re joined by Cesar Caceres, Product Lead at Brompton Technology. With deep expertise in video systems and real-time media, Cesar breaks down the vital—but often invisible—role of genlock and signal sync in virtual production. It’s the tech that keeps everything in perfect time.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

Rich is the president of SMPTE, he does stuff with AI and Deluxe. He’s a father and engineer and DJ… Today’s episode we talk about a lot of stuff which can only be part one or a longer series of podcasts. Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this conversation, Rob Chandler interviews Scot Barber, a seasoned filmmaker and innovator in virtual production. Scot shares his journey from working at Apple and Sony Pictures to developing cutting-edge technology at VOIA. They discuss the evolution of virtual production, the impact of AI on filmmaking, and the importance of empowering new voices in the industry. Scott emphasizes the need for democratization in filmmaking, allowing anyone with a story to tell to access the tools they need to create.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this episode of the Starting Pixel Podcast, host Rob Chandler interviews Olivia Farrar, a VFX expert and founder of All Groovy. Olivia shares her journey from growing up in New Zealand to working at renowned studios like Weta Digital and Imaginarium. She discusses her passion for motion capture, the evolution of virtual production, and the importance of bridging the gap between creative and technical teams in filmmaking. Olivia also emphasizes the significance of leadership and teamwork in the VFX industry, as well as the innovations in real-time VFX and keying techniques that are shaping the future of visual storytelling.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_PixelVodded at the VeePod Studios in Soho London

In this episode of the Startin' Pixel podcast, host Rob Chandler speaks with Andrea Longo about the transformative role of AI in media production. They discuss the challenges of content discovery, the limitations of traditional methods, and how AI can enhance media management through smart video tagging and analysis. Andrea shares insights into real-time applications of AI, particularly in political communication, and demonstrates the capabilities of AI in video management. The conversation concludes with a look at future applications and the ongoing development of AI technologies in the media industry.Andrea's details:w: neodatagroup.ai/e: andrea.longo@neodatagroup.aiLinkedIn: andreagiorgiolongoBecome a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this episode our guest is Ed Tracy, a filmmaker and YouTube creator who has successfully transitioned into the world of AI and animation. We discuss the evolution of content creation from traditional TV to online platforms, the impact of AI on filmmaking, and the importance of collaboration in creative projects. Ed shares his journey of building a viral YouTube channel focused on AI-generated content and explores the future of virtual production and AI in the film industry.Watch Kiwadoi CAMERA, the YouTube channel discussed HEREBecome a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this episode of the Starting Pixel podcast, Rob Chandler interviews James Dinsdale from Dimensions Studio, who shares insights into virtual production and his journey in the film industry. They discuss the technical aspects of virtual production, including motion capture, LED technology, and lighting techniques. James explains the setup of a recent demo at their new studio, Evergreen, showcasing the capabilities of live tracking and dynamic lighting. The conversation also touches on the misconceptions surrounding virtual production and its practical applications in filmmaking, emphasizing how it can enhance storytelling while reducing costs.The full video James was talking though "MetaHumans Driven by Live Motion-Capture on an LED volume for ICVFX"Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this episode of the Starting Pixel podcast, host Rob Chandler speaks with cinematographer Quentin Jorquera about his unique journey in the film industry, transitioning from traditional cinematography to virtual production. They discuss the emotional aspects of cinematography, the importance of storytelling amidst evolving technology, and the practicalities of building virtual production stages. Quentin shares insights on his experiences working in various locations and the challenges and opportunities presented by virtual production, emphasizing the need for collaboration and understanding among all departments involved in filmmaking.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

This week we are talking to Alex Grona, a games developer who now mixes GenAI, mobile phones and gaming platforms to merge the real with the metaverse.Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel

In this episode of the Starting Pixel podcast, Rob Chandler interviews Andy Harris, the CTO and founder of Automated Film Props. They discuss the innovative technology behind automated props that interact with actors and virtual environments, enhancing storytelling in film. Andy shares his journey from cybersecurity to filmmaking, explaining how automated props can revolutionize the industry by allowing real-time interactions and reducing the need for post-production fixes. The conversation also touches on the challenges and creative possibilities that come with integrating technology into film production.Contact for Andyyoutube.com/@AutomatedFilmProps/videosandy@automatedfilmprops.comBecome a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusive weekly e-bulletin, join our WhatsApp chatrooms, and receive early access to live show tickets.Just head to ⁠⁠⁠www.startingpixel.com/⁠⁠⁠ to sign up.Follow Us On Socials:Instagram: @starting_pixelTikTok: @starting_pixelTwitter: @Starting_Pixel