In my latest project, I embarked on a creative journey to shoot a spec advert for Liquid Death sparkling water. This was an opportunity to experiment with lighting and virtual production techniques using a TV as a background. Let’s dive into the process and the lessons learned.
Project Overview
The goal was to create a captivating product video for Liquid Death, focusing on creative lighting and virtual production techniques. I aimed to achieve a professional look using accessible equipment and a bit of DIY ingenuity.
Equipment and Setup
- Camera: Sony A7S3 with a 90mm F 2.8 macro lens.
- Support: A basic tripod and a cheap Amazon product turntable.
- Background: A 50-inch LED TV displaying ambient videos from YouTube.
- Lighting: Two Amaran T2C tube lights for backlights and a Weeylite Ninja 400 with a softbox overhead.
The Process
- Preparation: I used a coffee table and books to position the can, ensuring it was at the right height.
- Background Selection: I experimented with various YouTube videos on the TV to create interesting textures and backgrounds.
- Lighting Setup: The tube lights were positioned as backlights, and the overhead light was used to illuminate the front of the can.
- Challenges: Managing reflections on the TV and the can was tricky. I had to adjust the positioning to minimize these issues.
Shooting and Editing
- Framing: The size of the TV limited my framing options, so I had to be mindful of keeping the background in the shot.
- Hero Shot: I started with a hero shot and then moved around to capture different angles and details.
- Editing: The footage was edited in Final Cut Pro. I used Phantom Luts for color grading and added sound effects from Artlist for depth.
Key Learnings
- Reflections: Managing reflections, especially on reflective surfaces like cans, is challenging. I considered using a large white sheet to bounce light for a more pleasing reflection.
- Stability: The turntable and the setup on a woolen rug caused some instability. A more robust turntable and a solid floor would have helped.
- Product Condition: Ensure the product is in pristine condition. Even minor dents or scratches can be amplified on camera.
- Background Size: A larger TV would offer more flexibility in shot framing. However, achieving similar effects with a black background and post-production overlays is also possible.
Conclusion
This project was a great learning experience in DIY virtual production for product videos. It shows that with some creativity and the right tools, you can achieve professional-looking results even in a home setting.
Watch the Video
Check out the final spec advert for Liquid Death on my YouTube channel here.
This blog post is an accompaniment to my YouTube video. For a more detailed look at the process and the final product, make sure to watch the full video.
Let’s keep pushing the boundaries of creativity together!
