BMW’s web series with BMW, a collaboration with Discover Japan, has utilized Blackmagic Design’s Pocket Cinema Camera 4K and 6K models for its production. The creative company bird and insect, led by director Shuma, has been using these cameras since the series launched in 2020.
Project Details
The series showcases BMW vehicles as they travel through Japan with various creators and artists known for their craftsmanship. Each episode features a different creator or artist, such as glass artist Kenichi Sasakawa, who recently interacted with a virtual human named imma in one of the episodes.
Camera Performance
Shuma emphasizes the Pocket Cinema Cameras’ ability to capture nuanced colors and subtle details, which are crucial for the series' aesthetic. He switched from the 4K model to the 6K version starting in 2021, noting a significant improvement in image resolution.
Post-Production Workflow
All post-production tasks, including editing and color grading, are handled by bird and insect using DaVinci Resolve Studio. Shuma creates lookup tables (LUTs) before shooting to ensure consistent color grading across all episodes. The compact nature of the cameras allows for efficient use in various locations without extensive setup.
The series is predominantly live-action with minimal effects, focusing on high-quality footage and natural lighting. Shuma’s workflow involves traveling frequently, making the portability of DaVinci Resolve Studio on a MacBook Pro ideal for his needs.