Legend3D creates 2D to 3D conversion solution for broadcast
As part of our MIPTV 3D coverage, sponsored by 3D specialists Presteigne Charter, we speak to Dr Barry Sandrew, CCO/CTO, Founder and President of 2D to 3D conversion company Legend3D where he reveals thecompany's intention to speed up interest in 3D television with a conversion toolset, specifically intended for broadcast, allowing for a high quality half hour conversion on a weekly basis.
In similar news to what Steve Schklair told us yesterday (CEO of 3ality Technica and friend of Dr Sandrew),Legend3D will also use part of their new round of investment to subsidise the cost of conversion for studios.
3D Focus: I have seen a lot of shows recently that have been filmed with stereo rigs and been disappointed with some of the results. At what point do you think (if any) conversion will 100 percent replace stereo filming?
Dr Barry Sandrew: Conversion will never replace stereo filming and stereo filming will never replace conversion—the two will co-exist in a complementary manner. ...
3D Focus: I think it is fair to say that conversion is time intensive and costly – where is Legend3D at in terms of television conversion solutions where budgets and time are more restrictive compared to the movies?
Dr Barry Sandrew: Recognising the growing demand for 3D content, we’ve developed a broadcast solution that can convert TV programming at a price point that fits many TV studio budgets. Legend3D is the first studio to develop this type of specialized process.
Previously, the only TV 3D conversion processes available have been automatic, real-time or semi-real time 2D-to-3D conversion. That simply cannot work and will not work. There is too much subjectivity and creativity required in a properly executed conversion process.
We have created a separate pipeline to cater to the unique needs of TV 3D conversion. We’ve already demonstrated our broadcast product to several studios and there has been a remarkably positive response to both the quality and price. With careful planning, we can deliver a high-quality, converted half hour show every week. ...
3D Focus: What TV shows do you think would warrant conversion? (My personal belief is that Spartacus would be an ideal candidate!)
Dr Barry Sandrew: 3D has way of engaging audiences that transcends any specific genre. As such, I believe any and all shows would be great in 3D. 3D is applicable to everything from comedies and sitcoms such as The Office and Modern Family, and Sci-Fi fantasies such as Battlestar Galactica, Legend of the Seeker, and Game of Thrones. ...
3D Focus: Although stereo filming should mimic true human 3D perception, often it does not. Why is that? Does conversion mimic true human 3D perception?
Dr Barry Sandrew: As a neuroscientist, I can assure you that there is nothing “native” about native 3D. Neither stereo filming nor conversion can mimic true human perception nor should it.
When filming in 3D, slight variations in luminance and color alignment create artifacts that have to be corrected in post or in more serious situations, need to be recreated via 3D conversion. This is particularly true in over and under camera rigs that can create significant artifact, particularly in highlights. In those rigs, one camera records through a polarized mirror and the other camera records the same scene albeit with disparity via the reflection off that same mirror. That is not “native”. That is not how we see in real life; it’s quite the contrary.
Both shooting in stereo and conversion are creative processes and can be used in any number of ways by the filmmaker to create a desired “storytelling” effect. For more on how the brain perceives 3D, be sure to check out my new blog, “Reflections on the Growth of 3D.” ...
3D Focus: If a TV executive is reading this and wanted to trial conversion, what are the processes behind this? What conversation would they need to have with Legend3D?
Dr Barry Sandrew: Simple! Send us DPX files and we’ll return a stunning 3D TV demo that will fit your budget. ...
Read the full interview here: