Virtual production replaces green screens with LED volumes that show realistic backgrounds behind actors. The technology has moved from film studios into regional production houses, and discussions now focus on practical questions instead of hype.
1. What content will you shoot?
The pixel pitch should match the camera distance. Fine-pitch walls of roughly P1.2–P2.6 are common for close-up talent and product work. Larger pitches can work for wide automotive or landscape shots where the camera is farther away.
2. How large should the wall be?
An LED volume is usually a curved main wall plus a ceiling or side walls. Even a compact studio of 100–200 m² of wall can support car shoots, music videos and product launches. Do not buy a wall that is larger than the content schedule can use.
3. What brightness and contrast do you need?
Studio walls typically run 1,000–1,500 nits with high contrast and deep black levels. The wall must respond consistently to camera exposure without visible moiré or scan lines.
4. Is the refresh rate camera-safe?
The combination of refresh rate, scan rate and processing must be matched to the cameras you use. Ask for a live camera test at the exact shutter angles planned for production rather than relying only on specifications.
5. Which video processors and media servers are included?
A virtual production system depends on synchronised processing between the camera tracking system and the LED processors. Confirm whether the quotation includes the processor, sync hardware, media server and the team to configure them.
6. Can the modules be curved or serviced easily?
Ask how many module types the wall uses, whether spare modules are stored on site, and how long module replacement takes during a shooting day.
7. What is the real power and cooling load?
An LED volume draws significant power and generates heat. The studio's air conditioning and power supply must be designed for the wall's worst case, not the average.
8. How much training is included?
Operating a volume requires trained staff for content playback, colour and camera systems. Include operator training in the budget; an unused volume is a very expensive storage room.
9. What happens when the technology changes?
Walls are often built in phases. Ask whether the cabinet size, processor platform and mounting system allow future expansion or a pitch upgrade without replacing everything.
10. Who supports you after handover?
Get response times for critical failures, spare module availability and remote diagnostics in writing. A virtual production volume earns money only when it is available for shooting days.
Start with the shoot plan
The strongest first step is to describe the actual productions planned for the first two years. That list will answer most technology questions before a single panel is ordered.