Watch: Blackmagic, Adobe, Vimeo & More Predict the Future of Filmmaking at SXSW
Keeping up to date with what's currently happening in the cinematic world is certainly an important part of being a filmmaker, as is being able to recognize and anticipate changes. We've heard many thoughts on where the future of cinema and filmmaking is headed, from the transmediatic, multi-celled film to the end of TV as we know it. Adding to the discourse through their new series of (very) short SXSW video interviews is Wipster, who asked industry professionals, like reps from Blackmagic, Adobe, and Vimeo, what they saw in the future of video. Continue on to find out what they said.
The major themes we've heard in the past several years is that film and video are going to become democratized, and indeed they have. Digital cameras and editing software has made it possible for those without large budgets or formal training to jump in and start making films, but that was just the beginning. Now that making films and videos is something any can do, the numbers of not only no-budget filmmakers have increased, but the needs of these filmmakers as well. And other than the technological advances we've come to expect in a tech-driven industry, that is where the future of film and video seems to be headed -- addressing these needs and dealing with the incredible saturation of the market.
Wipster caught up with a bunch of creatives/professionals at SXSW and asked them where they thought the future of video was headed. We've shared a selection of the videos below, but Wipster will be adding to the list in the coming days, so be sure to check back so as to not miss one! So, what do these creatives think the future of video will hold?
Better visual quality for less $$$
The hesitation to go digital many filmmakers felt at the beginning of the digital revolution was in part rooted in fear of a subpar image. However, once creatives realized how efficient a digital workflow could be, and as the technology continued to produce better images, the fear changed from an ugly, video-y picture, to something reminiscent of indie film's past -- "I can't afford it." In this first video, Bob Caniglia of Blackmagic Design talks about how he believes the future of video will include filmmakers having access to powerful cameras at affordable prices.
More filmmaker/audience interaction
Filmmakers have more access to their audience than ever before thanks to the internet and social media. However, this access is only the tip of the iceberg. According to Justin Cone of Motionographer and Psyop, it's not just about having access to and having interactions with your audience. It's about collaboration. It's about allowing those who consume your work to have a chance to help you become a better filmmaker with their suggestions. Cone says that he thinks the future contains platforms that make that possible.
Editing will go mobile
Digital NLE's have made editing a possibility to a whole new generation of filmmakers and editors. Not only that, but applications are insanely powerful and allow creatives to complete amazing works of complicated art in the comfort of their own homes -- or in a café -- or in their car as they're stuck in traffic. Jason Levine and Dave Helmly of Adobe (in what sounds like a bit of a plug -- though the concept is very relevant) discuss how they see editing changing in the future.
Distribution will become a whole new animal
Probably the most his is already beginning to happen. We're seeing a pretty good number of VOD platforms popping up, staying, and thriving -- and not just Netflix and Hulu. There are distribution platforms that give more power to the filmmaker by allowing them to distribute their films directly to their audiences. Jeremy Boxer of Vimeo, which has its own answer to direct-distribution with Vimeo on Demand, discusses the future of direct distribution.
Real-time VFX
After watching Gravity and then seeing how it was made, I'm sure that many people, and not just filmmakers, saw a bright future in the world of post-production and visual effects. Creating great VFX is usually a long and tedious process, but Mathias Omotola of Maxon C4D believes the future of video lies in post with exciting new developments, like real-time VFX.
Again, Wipster will be adding to their SXSW interview series, so be sure to check out the page here.
What do you think the future of video/film is? How will each phase of production change in the coming years, from capture to exhibition? Let us know in the comments below.
Link: The Future of Video at SXSW -- Wipster