The Starting Pixel Podcast

What does AI actually do for filmmaking? Chris Jorna shares how he made a sci-fi film in one day with minimal budget by rethinking what tools are for. Discover why the most powerful use of AI isn't about impressive visuals — it's about supporting authentic performance, enabling independent storytellers, and building worlds from a single image. Become a member of Starting Pixel, receive our exclusi...

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 includi...

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 — fr...

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...

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 rol...

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...

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...

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...

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 a...

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 t...

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 surprisi...

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, j...

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/⁠⁠⁠ t...

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...

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 tec...

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 politic...

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 c...

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, showcasin...

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....

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...

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 al...

In this conversation, Rob Chandler interviews Phil Ellingson, the Director of Sales and Marketing at Sisu Cinema Robotics. They discuss the innovative use of robotic arms in filmmaking, exploring how these technologies are transforming the industry by enabling dynamic camera movements, enhancing visual effects, and improving safety on set. Phil shares insights into the logistics of using robotic a...

In this episode of the Starting Pixel Podcast, filmmaker and visual effects specialist Stuart Rivas shares his journey from Venezuela to Spain, exploring the evolution of his career in filmmaking and virtual production. He discusses the impact of technology on storytelling, particularly through the use of Unreal Engine, and provides insights into the unique film 'The Gift,' which he created during...

In this conversation, Rob Chandler interviews Zoltan Batho, an award-winning producer and educator, about the evolution of film technology, particularly focusing on virtual production, augmented reality, and the role of education in preparing students for the industry. Zoltan shares his journey from Hungary to leading innovative projects in the film industry, discussing the impact of COVID-19, the...

In this episode of the Starting Pixel Podcast, hosts Rob and Michelle welcome Sarah Thomas Moffat, a distinguished cinematographer with over 25 years of experience. The conversation explores Sarah's journey into cinematography, her transition to virtual production, and the challenges and misconceptions surrounding this innovative technology. They discuss the importance of collaboration, the techni...