DigitalProduktionen

DigitalProduktionen refers to media productions in which digital technologies are central across all phases, from concept and preproduction to production, post-production and distribution. In German-speaking media industries, the term is used to describe both the approach to production and the studios or service providers that specialize in digital workflows, CGI, and virtual production.

Scope and disciplines include digital cinematography, computer-generated imagery (CGI), digital compositing, editing, color grading, sound design, motion graphics, and asset management. Projects span film, television, advertising, online video, video games, and live events that rely on digital assets and online collaboration.

History: The shift toward digital workflows began with the adoption of digital cameras, nonlinear editors, and CGI in the late 20th century and accelerated in the 2000s. The development of virtual production, real-time rendering, cloud-based collaboration, and scalable render farms expanded what's possible in terms of speed, flexibility, and scale.

Technologies and processes: key components include digital cameras, nonlinear editing systems (NLEs), CGI suites, motion capture, 3D modeling and rendering, color management, audio post, and virtual production environments using game engines and LED volumes. Data management, rights management, and standardization of formats are important considerations.

Impact and trends: DigitalProduktionen enable faster iteration, remote collaboration, standardized workflows, and easier archival and distribution for digital platforms. Challenges include data security, upfront software and hardware costs, and the need for skilled technical personnel.

See also: digital cinema, post-production, VFX, CGI, virtual production.