Training Manual for Trainers: Virtual Production – Principles of Video Recording in 3D Virtual Scenery | CULTUUROCONNECT

Objective
Equip trainers with a structured guide to introduce and facilitate training in virtual production using 3D virtual scenery, enabling participants to perform basic virtual video recordings effectively. 

 

  1. Preparation (10 minutes)
  • Objective: Prepare the space, tools, and mindset for a successful virtual production session. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Research and test the current virtual production setup and tracking system (e.g. Unreal Engine, Antilatency, Vive). 
  1. Calibrate the physical studio with the virtual environment using ArUco markers or other relevant tools. 
  1. Prepare a short overview presentation on virtual production’s potential and setup. 

Checklist: 

  • Unreal Engine project loaded and functioning 
  • Tracking devices calibrated and tested 
  • Camera(s) ready 
  • Lighting consistent with virtual scene 
  • Overview slides and example video clips ready 

 

  1. Introduction to Virtual Production (15 minutes)
  • Objective: Familiarize participants with the core components of virtual production. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Present a short video or case to practice and demonstrate the process. 
  1. Introduce the core components: camera tracking, 3D environment, and live compositing. 
  1. Discuss key terms: real-time rendering, green screen vs LED wall, camera synchronization. 

Trainer Tip: Use analogies with film or stage productions to help bridge understanding. 

 

  1. Guided Hands-On Session (30 minutes)
  • Objective: Provide basic experience with navigating and recording in a 3D virtual set. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Walk through the Unreal Engine interface focused on the pre-prepared scene. 
  1. Demonstrate moving the tracked camera and seeing the results in real time. 
  1. Assign participants to operate the virtual camera, try framing a short scene. 

Trainer Tip: Allow room for trial and error. Encourage screen recording for later review. 

 

  1. Creative Application & Troubleshooting (15 minutes)
  • Objective: Explore creative use cases and respond to common technical hiccups. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Share ways to apply virtual production in performances (e.g., theatre, music video). 
  1. Troubleshoot tracking drift, lighting mismatch, or Unreal latency/input lag. 
  1. Allow participants to experiment with camera paths or lighting tweaks. 

 

  1. Wrap-Up & Feedback (10 minutes)
  • Objective: Reinforce learning and collect feedback. 
  • Steps: 
  1. Recap: What is virtual production? Why is it useful? What are the possibilities in performing arts? 
  1. Share resources and tutorials. 
  1. Gather feedback: What felt intuitive? What was confusing? 

 

Post-Training Support 

  • Provide cheat sheet for setup & troubleshooting 
  • Offer links to public Unreal Engine virtual production templates 
  • Optional follow-up Q&A via online call 

Trainer Tip: Encourage collaborative experimentation. Virtual production thrives on creativity and flexibility.