Professional Training & Workshops

Participants will learn about the following:

Noah Kadner is the Virtual Production Editor at American Cinematographer magazine and author of the Virtual Production Field Guide series for Epic Games. He also hosts the Virtual Production Podcast. Noah is a seasoned industry thought leader. His partners include Epic Games, Apple, and American Cinematographer magazine. Noah also has extensive production and post-production experience in film, broadcast, streaming, and virtual production.

Mónica Reina, born and raised in Mexico City, studied cinematography and production at CUEC. A survivor of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, she took part in search and rescue efforts, an experience that shaped her commitment to purposeful storytelling. She later co-founded Simplemente, guiding its growth from a modest digital services firm into the first Apple Certified Training Center in Latin America.

As director of Simplemente, Reina has been a driving force in designing and operating the largest LED volume in Mexico. She is dedicated to making advanced production tools accessible and has collaborated with leading companies, including Apple, Amazon, Televisa, and Netflix to help creators realize authentic, ambitious stories.

This one-day intensive at the Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center is designed for a diverse range of participants across the film and media industries, including:

• Industry Veterans looking to update their toolkit with cutting-edge virtual production workflows for vehicle scenes

• Emerging Filmmakers & Students who want hands-on experience with new techniques used in high-end commercial and cinematic productions

• Cinematographers, Directors, and Gaffers curious about integrating LED volume car shoots, interactive lighting, and practical effects into their creative approach.

• Advertisers & Branded Content Creators aiming to elevate car commercials with stylized, photorealistic, or experimental environments without the cost and complexity of real-world road shoots.

• VP Technicians, 3D/real-time Artists, and VFX Supervisors interested in how ICVFX, driving plates, Unreal Engine backgrounds, AI-generated video, Pixera playback, camera tracking, and LED sync systems work together to create believable in-camera effects.

Whether you’re focused on narrative storytelling, branded commercial work, music videos, or performance-driven vehicle scenes, this workshop offers an accessible, high-impact entry point into one of the most powerful uses of virtual production today.

• A practical understanding of car process cinematography for LED volumes, including how plate playback, camera tracking, content mapping, reflections, and wall light affect the final image.

• Hands-on experience shooting a real car against live-action 360° driving plates, real-time CG environments, and AI-generated video backdrops.

• An overview of how Pixera can be used to drive content on a curved LED wall and align virtual movement with the physical car and camera.

• Experience evaluating technical image issues, including moiré, shutter sync, lens choice, color, and realism across different backdrop types.

• A clearer understanding of how interactive lighting, DMX, and pixel mapping can help integrate a real car into virtual environments.

• Insight into how live-action plates, CG, and AI-generated video can each support different stages of production, from previs and testing to final in-camera shots.

Participants will learn about the following:

● Environment Scanning Workflow Overview

An introduction to Gaussian Splatting, photogrammetry, drone capture, and lidar workflows, including comparisons of image quality, capture speed, hardware requirements, and runtime performance.

● Project Case Studies

Examples from recent productions using scanning workflows for virtual production, VFX, games, XR, and immersive media, with discussion of how different capture techniques were selected for different production goals.

● Photogrammetry, Drone, and Lidar Demonstrations

Walkthrough demonstrations of photogrammetry using phones and DSLR cameras with RealityCapture or PhotoCatch, along with examples of drone-based environment capture and lidar workflows.

● Hands-On Gaussian Splat Capture

Participants will work with the XGRIDS Lixel L2 / K1 scanner to capture an environment while learning best practices for lighting, movement, reflections, shadows, and scan coverage.

● Hands-On Processing Pipeline

Processing scans through Postshot, RealityCapture, and XGRIDS Lixel Studio while comparing quality, speed, optimization, and workflow differences between each platform.

● Cleanup and Optimization

Cleaning floating artifacts, repairing holes, simplifying geometry, and preparing assets for efficient real-time playback in Unreal Engine and virtual production environments.

● Unreal Engine Integration and Camera Tests

Importing the finished scanned environment into Unreal Engine and testing the asset on the Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center LED volume using a tracked camera workflow.

Noah Kadner is the Virtual Production Editor at American Cinematographer magazine and author of the Virtual Production Field Guide series for Epic Games. He also hosts the Virtual Production Podcast. Noah is a seasoned industry thought leader. His partners include Epic Games, Apple, and American Cinematographer magazine. Noah also has extensive production and post-production experience in film, broadcast, streaming, and virtual production.

Mónica Reina, born and raised in Mexico City, studied cinematography and production at CUEC. A survivor of the 1985 Mexico City earthquake, she took part in search and rescue efforts, an experience that shaped her commitment to purposeful storytelling. She later co-founded Simplemente, guiding its growth from a modest digital services firm into the first Apple Certified Training Center in Latin America.

As director of Simplemente, Reina has been a driving force in designing and operating the largest LED volume in Mexico. She is dedicated to making advanced production tools accessible and has collaborated with leading companies, including Apple, Amazon, Televisa, and Netflix to help creators realize authentic, ambitious stories.

This one-day intensive at the Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center is designed for a diverse range of participants across the film and media industries, including:

• Virtual Production Artists & Technicians interested in integrating scanned environments into LED volume workflows, Unreal Engine pipelines, and in-camera visual effects.

• Cinematographers, Directors, and Production Designers looking to better understand how real-world locations can be digitized for virtual production and hybrid filmmaking workflows.

• 3D Artists, Environment Artists, and VFX Professionals interested in Gaussian Splatting, photogrammetry, lidar, and real-time optimization techniques for Unreal Engine and XR workflows.

• XR Creators and Immersive Storytellers building interactive experiences, virtual worlds, digital twins, and location-based storytelling projects.

• Emerging Filmmakers & Students looking for hands-on experience with cutting-edge scanning technologies increasingly used across film, games, advertising, architecture, and immersive media.

• Documentary and Commercial Creators exploring faster and more flexible methods for capturing real-world locations for storytelling, previs, and virtual production.

Whether you are creating narrative films, immersive experiences, digital archives, branded content, or interactive worlds, this workshop provides an accessible introduction to the future of environment capture and virtual production.

• A practical understanding of Gaussian Splatting, photogrammetry, lidar, and drone capture workflows for virtual production and immersive media.

• Hands-on experience scanning and processing environments using the XGRIDS Lixel L2 / K1 workflow.

• Experience comparing multiple processing tools, including Postshot, RealityCapture, and XGRIDS Lixel Studio.

• An understanding of how to clean, optimize, and prepare scanned environments for real-time playback in Unreal Engine.

• Insight into how environment scanning workflows are used across virtual production, VFX, XR, games, and immersive storytelling.

• Experience integrating scanned assets into an Unreal Engine virtual production pipeline and testing them on an LED volume with tracked camera workflows.

• A clearer understanding of the strengths, limitations, and production considerations of different scanning techniques

The NYU Tisch Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center, in collaboration with AV Stumpfl, presents an intensive, hands-on PIXERA Operator Training Workshop designed for emerging and experienced media server operators.

This in-person training offers a deep dive into PIXERA’s powerful real-time media server ecosystem, covering everything from foundational workflows to advanced show control and multi-output environments.

This instructor-led training provides a comprehensive introduction to PIXERA media server software and hardware, widely used across live events, virtual production, immersive installations, and broadcast environments.

Participants will gain hands-on experience working directly with PIXERA in real-world scenarios, learning how to design, program, and execute complex media server workflows from concept to final playout.

Through a combination of guided instruction and practical exercises, the workshop explores the full lifecycle of a show, from system setup and content integration to playback and control.

By the end of the training, participants will have a strong operational understanding of PIXERA and the confidence to apply it in professional production environments.

Key Topics

• PIXERA software fundamentals

• Projector and LED display setups

• Timeline programming

• 3D workflows 

• Multi-client setup

• Advanced PIXERA features
• Show control 

WORKSHOP STRUCTURE

Day 1 – Foundations of PIXERA

• Introduction to PIXERA interface and workflows

• Media management and playback fundamentals

• Setting up projects and outputs

Day  2 – System Design & Programming

• Timeline programming and cue-based playback

• Projector and LED wall configurations

• Multi-screen and spatial layouts

Day 3 – Advanced Workflows & Show Control

• 3D workflows and compositing

• Multi-user and multi-client setups

• Show control integration and advanced features

• Troubleshooting and live operation scenarios 

MEET YOUR INSTRUCTOR

MILES KIPPER

PIXERA Instructor, AV Stumpfl

Miles Kipper is the Business Development Manager for PIXERA in the US, focused on live events, concert touring, and integration markets. Based in Minneapolis, he came up through the production world with hands-on experience in concerts, touring, and corporate events which shapes how he thinks about media server workflows and what actually matters to operators and technical directors in the field.

In his role at AV Stumpfl, Miles works closely with rental and staging companies, integrators, and touring professionals to help them get the most out of PIXERA — from initial evaluation through deployment and day-to-day use. He's been involved in training programs with companies across the US as PIXERA continues to grow its footprint in the live event and touring segment.

WHO IS THIS WORKSHOP FOR?

This 3-day workshop is designed for:

• Media server operators and technicians

• Virtual production professionals

• AV engineers and live event specialists

• Designers working with projection, LED, or immersive environments

• Filmmakers and creatives expanding into real-time workflows

PARTICIPANTS SHOULD HAVE

• A basic understanding of video workflows and production pipelines

• Familiarity with digital media formats and playback systems

• Prior experience in AV, production, or related fields (recommended)

WHAT TO BRING

All technology necessary for the training will be provided. However, if you have a Windows laptop with an NVIDIA GPU, you are welcome to bring it, but it is not required.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly transforming the way stories are imagined and produced. From concept development to post-production, artists are increasingly integrating AI into their creative workflows to move faster, visualize and iterate ideas earlier, and unlock entirely new forms of visual storytelling.

The NYU Tisch Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center offered this practical workshop in which students could harness state-of-the-art AI workflows to craft scripts, storyboards, visual assets, and post‑production deliverables that streamline and polish their projects. Students practice the core principles of human‑driven AI-assisted storytelling, visual composition, and color theory as they apply to film, TV, gaming, and immersive experiences. This hands-on course teaches you how to integrate AI in pre‑production, production, and post-production workflows.

TOPICS

 1 – Course Kick‑off & AI Fundamentals

2 – LLMs in Pre‑Production

3 – Diffusion Models & Visual Ideation

4 – Storyboarding with AI

5 – World‑Building & Character Design

 6 – Script & Storyboard Synergy

 7 – AI‑Powered Post‑Production Basics

8 – AI Audio & Sound Design

 9 – Ethics, Bias & Licensing

10 – Production Planning with AI

11 – Final Project Development

12 – Final Presentations & Deliverables

INSTRUCTOR

David Poyner is an assistant professor and creative technologist working out of Brooklyn, New York. He has a BFA in illustration from Ringling College of Art & Design and is a self-taught computer programmer. David started his career as a kids' game illustrator; he soon realized he could unlock more of his inner creativity by utilizing technology. He started his programming career developing college-level course applications for a prestigious online university. From there, he went on to work in multiple industries, including entertainment, pharmaceuticals, advertising, technology, museums, and education — helping bridge the gap between design and technology. His latest work has been with Ford Motor Company, developing new user experiences for upcoming vehicle platforms.

David's work has won multiple awards for its innovative user experience design, animation work, and creative use of technology. He spent time developing exhibitions for museums such as The Sazarec House, the Illinois Holocaust Museum, the Mississippi Arts & Entertainment Experience Museum, and the International Spy Museum. He has developed immersive experiences and interactive applications for Google, Coca Cola, Apple, Meta and more.

David taught the inaugural Introduction to Virtual Production class for NYU Tisch.

WHO IS THIS TRAINING FOR

This 6-week workshop is designed for filmmakers, media artists, designers, creative technologists, and storytellers who want to explore how generative AI can enhance their creative and production workflows.

Participants should have a basic understanding of film or media production and a curiosity about how emerging technologies can expand creative possibilities. No prior AI experience is required.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, students will walk away with

• Produce a 2‑page script outline with LLM prompts

• Assemble a 5‑frame AI storyboard with camera‑angle annotations

• Design character & environment sheets via diffusion‑model prompts

• Color‑grade a 30‑second clip using RunwayML

• Build a 2‑page production plan (budget, schedule) for a 1‑minute film

• Draft a short policy statement on ethical AI use

• Deliver a full post‑production package (storyboard PDF, final script, edited clip, soundscape)

Prerequisites

• Basic film terminology

• Laptop with reliable internet

• Familiarity with Google Workspace (Docs, Slides, Sheets)

• Github Educational Account

More about "AI for Visual Storytelling" by Professor David Poyner: a non-credit online 6-week summer session professional training and workshop.

WORKSHOP INFO

Date: January 12, 2026 - January 14, 2026
Time: 10:00AM - 4:00PM with a one hour lunch break
Format: In-Person
Non-Credit Tuition: $1500
Description:
In collaboration with AbelCine & NYU Tisch Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center.

The ALEXA 35 for Virtual Production is an intensive, hands-on workshop designed to provide in-depth, practical knowledge of the ALEXA 35 camera system. Gain proficiency with the ALEXA 35 in a variety of production scenarios with a focus on virtual production environments. 

Over three days, explore everything from basic camera operations to advanced workflows, including color grading, working with LogC4, shooting with anamorphic lenses, and utilizing various ARRI accessories like the Hi-5 Hand Unit and Master Grips. Work with the TechnoDolly Techno10 crane system and how it integrates with virtual production studios. The workshop culminates with a hands-on virtual production exercise in NYU’s state-of-the-art LED volume. You will walk away with the knowledge and confidence to handle the ALEXA 35 in any real-world production scenario, from traditional shoots to virtual environments.

Workshop Structure

DAY 1 - ALEXA 35 Intro & Core Camera Operations

• ARRI ALEXA 35 in-depth Overview & Key Features

• Camera configurations

• Mastering LogC4

• Hands-on camera assembly and test footage shoot

DAY 2  - TechnoDolly Techno10 Operation, Advanced Features, Workflow & Post-Production Techniques

• Overview of TechnoDolly Techno10 features

• Hands-on Techno10 shooting exercises and demonstrations.

• Integrating the ALEXA 35 with LED walls, camera tracking, and real-time rendering.

• Look management with LUTs, LogC4, and on-set color pipelines.

DAY 3  -  Virtual Production with LED Volume & Real-World Camera Application

• Overview of virtual production workflows, LED volume tour, intro to key features, and camera tracking with real-time environments.

• Hands-on setup of the ALEXA 35 for virtual production.

• Shooting a scene in the LED volume with dynamic lighting and virtual environments.

• Best practices for exposure, lensing, lighting, and color in VP.

   

  Who is this workshop for?

• This three-day intensive at the Martin Scorsese Virtual Production Center is designed for a diverse range of participants across the film and media industries, including:

• Cinematographers and camera operators looking to expand their skills with the ARRI ALEXA 35 and virtual production workflows.
  
  

• Camera assistants, DITs, and digital imaging specialists seeking hands-on experience with LogC4, ARRIRAW, and advanced on-set color workflows.
  
  

• Virtual production technicians, LED volume operators, and Unreal Engine artists interested in integrating high-end cinema cameras into VP pipelines.
  
  

• Motion control and VFX artists who want practical training with the TechnoDolly Techno10.
  
  

• Film and media students eager to gain industry-relevant experience with cutting-edge camera and VP technologies.
  
  

• Directors and producers seeking a deeper understanding of how cinematography, motion control, and LED volume workflows come together.
  
  

• Independent filmmakers and industry professionals seeking hands-on, practical training with professional cinema tools used in today’s hybrid real/virtual productions.

Virtual Production Car Process Cinematography Workshop

Date: August 21, 2025
Time: 10:00AM - 4:00PM with a one hour lunch break
Format: In-Person
Non-Credit Tuition: $500
Description
Explore the ins and outs of a car process shoot by learning how to create a 360° camera rig to capture driving plates and set up a virtual production stage for car process cinematography. 

Sponsored in part by LED panel technology pioneers, ROE Visual, our cutting edge virtual production stage features ROE BlackPearl LED panels and is located in Industry City, Brooklyn. This exciting, hands-on workshop will be led by real-time/ICVFX industry expert, Noah Kadner.

Workshop Structure:

● Building a Multi-Camera Driving Plates Rig 

● Stitching individual angles into 360° video plates with Mistika VR and other tools. 

● Projection of 360° plates with Pixera within the Scorsese Center LED volume. 

● Achieving realistic cinematography for process driving shots. 

● Image Based Lighting(IBL) for synchronized lighting effects.