A local video production company shooting is in the same ultra-high-definition quality that is found in big blockbuster Hollywood productions.
Imaginarium Studio showcased its new 4K videos at a media conference Wednesday. With the horizontal resolution at 4,000 pixels, 4K shoots a clearer picture than high-definition video. Considered a relatively new market, some mainstream television broadcasters are making the move to the higher resolution.
The upcoming Brazil World Cup is expected to be shot and broadcasted in 4K as well as a documentary by the BBC.
Producer and operations manager Milosz Skowronski said about a year and a half ago because they wanted to bring that same quality found in Hollywood films to the city. Skowronski believes that 4K will be where the industry will eventually go later down the road.
“It’s a big learning curve,” he said. “We thought go early and be ready when the TV’s come out. It takes a long time to figure out all the issues. The specialty equipment that goes along with it is significant. It is an investment but I think it is the right investment. We want to make sure that our community can do the work at the highest level. We shouldn't have to go to Toronto to get really good quality.”
A 4K television or projector won’t come cheap for those looking to see the higher resolution. The Sony Bravia 84 inch 4K television at Future Shop is more than $24,000; The EluneVision Reference PureBright 4K fixed-frame screen is more than $1,200.
Skowronski said there will be a process for the general public to eventually adopt the new technology into their homes. Any transition, such as VHS to DVD, took years and that’s what will happen with 4K, he said.
The company hopes to continue shooting commercials and other projects such as feature length films.
Skowronski said they’re currently in the middle of finishing production a feature film and hope to tour it to a number of film festivals including the Sundance Film Festival.
“You can still find your audience when you’re creating an independent film by focusing on story and knowing who you’re making the film for,” he said.
Judy Sander, manager of the Northwestern Ontario Innovation Centre, said the local film and video sector is one of the key creative communities within the city. She said that there’s a market in the city for higher quality video.
“Technology is leveling the playing field,” she said. “Independents like Imaginarium can produce the same quality that Hollywood can produce and we can enjoy that.”
