A new approach to virtual production

Virtual production has revolutionised filmmaking, fueling creativity and reducing the environmental impacts of location filming. However, the high costs and space requirements have made this advancement inaccessible for many independent filmmakers, SMEs, and everyday creatives. Pioneering a fresh approach to virtual production in Scotland, we are introducing what we’re calling our ‘Mini Virtual Production Studio’ (MVPS), making smaller scale virtual production possible from our studio in the City of Glasgow. Currently under renovation we’ll be moving into the space in the coming months ahead of setting up Scotland’s first accessible virtual production studio.

Our MVPS is scheduled for launch early 2024 and will provide access to a new tool to create immersive, customisable environments for a range of digital content. This is a Scotland-first and aims to make virtual production technology accessible at a fraction of the cost of current solutions. 

Funded by the Innovate UK Creative Catalyst Programme, FoSho STUDIOS is set to mark a significant milestone in Scotland’s creative landscape:

“Glasgow is one of the most creative and connected cities in the world, and when artists, marketers and filmmakers want to create using cutting edge technology like virtual environments – they should be able to do it without breaking the bank. FoSho has always been committed to making content creation easier and more accessible and this is a huge step in us being able to make high-end content more affordable and sustainable.”

– Fynn Elkington, Managing Director, FoSho STUDIOS

What is a Virtual Production Studio?

A ‘virtual production studio’, also known as an LED ‘Volume’ or ‘Wall,’ refers to a type of production environment that leverages advanced technologies such as real-time graphics rendering, motion capture, and LED screens to create immersive, customisable environments that can seamlessly merge the real world with the virtual – replacing many use cases for green screen. One of the most notable early uses of a VPS is in the production of the Disney+ series “The Mandalorian.”

The current virtual production landscape is dominated by expensive LED Volumes, which are inaccessible to all but big budget film, TV and high-end commercial productions. FoSho STUDIOS’ solution will deliver a scaled down version of a full Virtual Production Studio, leveraging the advancement in technology to create a more affordable option that is just as immersive.

Why use a Mini Virtual Production Studio?

The reason why virtual production technology is important is because when compared to on-location filming it’s cost-effective, creatively valuable, and environmentally friendly. The alternatives (on-location filming, creating detailed sets, etc) require expensive equipment, extensive training, and a large carbon footprint. By reducing costs, energy usage and the overall footprint, FoSho’s solution opens up virtual production to smaller creative projects and in-house marketing agencies, helping democratise this powerful technology.

“The amazing thing about a Virtual Production Studio is that it essentially lets you film in any location, from one location. Imagine the creative possibilities for consumer products, marketing agencies and big brands. Want to film your drinks brand on a Tahitian beach? No problem. Want to create a crowd scene but don’t have the money to pay for hundreds of extras? Easy. Want to create a never-before-seen planet for you to walk about on? We can do that. Coupled with our adaptation to AI content manipulation, there are possibilities for brands and creators of all shapes and sizes – and it will all be possible right here in the heart of Glasgow.“

– Martin MacLeod, Creative Director, FoSho STUDIOS

We’ll offer full-service virtual productions using our in-house Mini VPS from early 2024. The studio is a short walk from Glasgow Central and Queen Street train stations, Buchanan Street Bus Station and the Underground, making it easily accessible within Glasgow, Edinburgh, and the Central Belt. Our ambition is to provide a production space in the heart of Glasgow so we can create in any location – from one location.