Technical Guide: Creating Content for Fortuna Hologram BoothUpdated 9 hours ago

Introduction: Workflow Overview for Fortuna Content Production

Creating high-quality content for the Fortuna hologram booth involves a structured workflow divided into four main stages:

1. Creative Stage – Character Design and Scriptwriting

• Design the character, gestures, and expressions.
• Write detailed scripts according to each stage of the workflow.
• Each script segment corresponds to a separate video clip.

2. Filming Stage

• Record the character performing each clip.
• Conduct test recordings and review them directly on the Fortuna device to ensure correct framing, lighting, and overall appearance.

3. Editing and Export Stage

• Trim and assemble clips, replace backgrounds, add props and effects, animate movements, and edit audio.
• Export final clips in the required format (MP4, 1080 × 1920), ready for integration.

4. Workflow Integration Stage

• Import and organise the clips in the software.
• Implement the workflow so each video plays at the appropriate moment in the hologram booth.

This structured approach ensures that every step, from initial design to final deployment, is carefully planned and executed for the best results.

1. Pre-Production

• Before filming, ensure the character concept and detailed script are fully developed according to the workflow stages. Pre-production planning includes:
• Defining the character, gestures, and facial expressions.
• Preparing a detailed shot list and storyboard.
• Planning timing for entry and exit effects (e.g., smoke, fog).
• Selecting props or surfaces (e.g., rugs) that the character will interact with.

2. Filming Guidelines

Background Setup

• Film the performer against a white background, as white is interpreted as transparent inside the hologram booth.
• Use a large, seamless backdrop that extends onto the floor or platform. Ensure it is smooth and free of wrinkles.
• Optional: Film on a green screen. In this case, keying will be required during post-production to isolate the character before adding a white background and shadow.

Optional Props and Surfaces

• During filming, you can place the performer on a rug, chair, or any surface to match the intended scene. This allows natural positioning and interaction with the prop.
• Alternatively, the surface can be added during post-production. Film the performer with a seamless background, then isolate the character and add the desired surface in editing. Mask and position the character appropriately, and add shadows for realism.

Camera Placement and Framing

• Position the camera directly in front of the performer, slightly below eye level.
• Format: Vertical 9:16 (1080 × 1920).
• Frame the performer fully within the shot, leaving space for natural hand movements.
• Use a teleprompter mounted over the camera to maintain direct eye contact.
• Test the camera height and distance on location before shooting.

Lighting Design

• Use a large LED key light positioned 45° to one side of the camera and slightly behind the performer.
• Adjust height and angle to cast natural shadows behind the performer, enhancing depth and realism.
• Avoid flat, frontal lighting.

Sound Recording

• Place a microphone above the performer, angled toward them, outside the frame.
• Ensure clothing or accessories do not produce unwanted noise.

Test Footage Review

Run test recordings and review them directly on the Fortuna device to ensure framing, lighting, and overall appearance translate correctly to the hologram.

3. Post-Production and Editing Workflow

Sequence Setup

• Create a new project/sequence with vertical 1080 × 1920 resolution.
• Import the recorded clips and trim unnecessary portions.

Background Replacement

• Add a white background layer beneath the main clip.
• If using green screen footage, first key out the green background to isolate the character.
• Apply shadows to the character to enhance depth.
• If the character sits on a rug or surface: 

1. Isolate the rug image without a background.
2. Mask the character’s lower layer so they appear naturally seated.
3. - Place the rug layer beneath and align it correctly.
4. - Add shadows as needed.
5.  - Merge the rug and character layers for easier animation.

Animation and Positioning

• Animate character movements using keyframes (position, rotation, floating effects).
• Adjust gestures and poses to remain within the 9:16 frame.

Audio Editing

• Edit dialogue and add effects (e.g., reverb, echo).
• AI tools can be used to replace or modify the audio completely.

Entry and Exit Effects

• Use smoke or fog effects for dramatic entrances and exits.
  

1. Import footage with a transparent background or a black background.
2. Animate the character to appear as smoke fills the frame.
3. Reverse the process for exits.

• Green screen smoke: Key out the green background before overlaying.
• Black background smoke in Premiere: Remove black using the Screen or Multiply blend mode.

Important: Keep the white background layer beneath all other layers to maintain holographic transparency.

4. Export

• Export as MP4, 1080 × 1920.
• Aim for high quality with a manageable file size.
• Further compression can be done using FFMPEG while preserving quality.

5. Tips and Best Practices

• Plan extra time during filming for entry/exit effects.
• Test all elements on the actual Fortuna device for accurate visualisation.
• Maintain consistent lighting and shadows for realism.
• Always check that gestures and movement stay within the vertical frame.