Atomos: Case Studies

TheMarch edition of the Atomos Storyboard is here and brings you three case studies related to Atomos products.

Synchronising a virtual production set

WPP, a global leader in communications and advertising, offers a unique Creative Tech Apprenticeship program that provides hands-on training in creative technology. This program allows participants to gain creative technology skills and develop their artistic voice by working on real projects with leading marketing agencies. One of the most exciting projects last year was a collaboration with ARRI Stage London, one of the largest virtual production studios in Europe. This project showed how advanced technology such as Atomos systems can help bring ideas to life.

One of the key technical elements when shooting in such a large-scale virtual studio is time synchronisation - timecode. Ben Colson, Digital Imaging Technician (DIT) who was in charge of this project, explained the importance of timecode synchronisation using Atomos' UltraSync system. The UltraSync system ensures accurate wireless timecode synchronisation between all cameras, audio recorders and especially the LED wall, which is crucial for this type of production."

The UltraSync system enables wireless synchronization of all devices, minimizing cabling and making it easier to work with technology such as Steadicam, which was completely wireless during this project. The technology, which uses Bluetooth for short distances and radio frequencies for longer range, offers flexibility for a variety of production environments. For this project, Atomos Shogun Ultra monitor-recorders were used and connected to Canon C500 MkII and C70 cameras for interviews and behind-the-scenes footage. This technological approach allowed for seamless synchronization of up to seven cameras, which was essential for the smooth running of the shoot.

Director and DOP Brett Danton, a recognized expert in virtual production, said, "Using UltraSync to wirelessly sync Steadicam to the screen is a complete revolution for me. This new technology has really made our job easier and simplified production."

Synchronizing the symphony

Film producer Nazim Djoudi recently completed an extraordinary project in which he captured a live concert in the historic Wieskirche church. Using 8 Ninja monitor-recorders with AirGlu™ synchronization technology, he was able to facilitate production and post-production, creating an exceptional video featuring the Bavarian State Orchestra.

The Wieskirche, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its beautiful Baroque architecture, and Djoudi had the unique opportunity to be the first filmmaker to professionally record a live concert at this venue. "Recording the first professional live concert at the Wieskirche was a huge honour and a profound experience for me," says Djoudi. "It was a unique opportunity where there was no room for mistakes." Djoudi carefully prepared the project, studying the music and the dimensions of the church to optimize the placement of cameras, lights and microphones. "For projects like this, pre-production and time management are key," explains Djoudi.

The concert was captured using eight cameras, twelve lights, several microphones and high-end audio converters. Djoudi used four Nikon Z8 and four Z6 cameras, each equipped with Ninja monitor-recorders and Atomos Connect modules, recording in 4K ProRes 10-bit NLOG. "Within seconds, I can check the recording format and fine-tune the exposure settings to ensure the cameras achieve the best possible dynamic range," he explains.

Djoudi relied on the Ninja for its high resolution and intuitive monitoring tools such as waveform. "Ninja's tools allowed me to get results much faster, which is crucial in live production where time is of the essence," he says. The AirGlu™ technology integrated into the Atomos Connect modules synchronized Djoudi's many audio and video sources, simplifying production on set. "When I first discovered Atomos Connect, I wasn't sure if it would be a good investment. After trying out two modules, I realized how useful they were and invested in six more," recalls Djoudi. "All my cameras now have timecode built in, which speeds up editing considerably, no matter how many channels I'm working with."

To provide redundancy, UltraSync Blue modules were connected to the Zoom F8n Pro external audio recorders to transmit timecode via Bluetooth using AirGlu. This setup ensured that all external devices displayed the same timecode. "AirGlu makes syncing audio in post-production with ten channels a breeze," he notes. Once the shoot was complete, the timecode built into the video and audio files made the editing process much easier. "AirGlu saved me hours in post-production. Editing is much more enjoyable and allows me to deliver the finished product to the client much faster," says Djoudi.

Discover creativity with Ninja Phone

As well as his medical career,John Mamutil, an orthodontist based in Sydney, has a long-standing passion for cinematography and photography. "I've been interested in photography for as long as I can remember," says John. In addition to orthodontics, John is also a software designer and leads a small team of developers. "Over the years, I've realized that almost anything is possible in software. Gradually I got into cinematography and started building a collection of amazing film and hybrid cameras," he adds.

Soon after investing in Atomos Ninja monitor-recorders, John quickly realized their importance in his cinematography journey. "The Ninjas were essential for me to understand the benefits of ProRes and RAW video," he explains. The monitor's built-in features, such as Waveforms, False Color and Focus Peaking, greatly improved his workflow. "I like their portability. The display size is ideal and the quality screen provides clear and sharp images," he adds.

When Atomos announced the Ninja Phone last April, John was excited and immediately decided to try the new product. He attached the clamp to an iPhone 15 Pro Max and connected it to the camera with a single HDMI cable. "I use the Ninja Phone for everything video related. It's fantastic for cameras that don't have tilting or moving LCD screens," he shares his experience.

The Ninja Phone has the ability to turn the iPhone 15 and 16 Pro, as well as the iPad Pro, into professional video monitors. "I was impressed with the quality of the device. I couldn't believe how light it was," says John.

With the Atomos Ninja Phone app, John has access to the same built-in features that the Ninja monitors have. "I love using the tool to de-squeeze anamorphic lenses - it's a must-have for cinematographers," he notes. The Ninja Phone can also capture 10-bit video in Apple 4K ProRes with the latest firmware. "It's amazing to use my iPhone as a premium monitor and recording device. I'm excited to see what the next evolution of Ninja Phone brings," says John.

For John, Atomos products are a key part of his cinematography gear. "Atomos is my number one choice because I find the concept of monitors connected by cable to cameras incredibly attractive," he says. "For cameras with smaller screens like the Canon C80 or Sigma FP, an external monitor like the Ninja Phone is a must."