360˚ Video Creator Voices is a blog series in which we will chat to talented individuals in the Blend Creator Network, about various topics and events in the 360° VR video space. We have interviewed Paulette Caletti about the state of the industry, what she’s up to and her dream Kubrick-esque immersive project.
How did you become involved in 360° video production?
It was during the Power to the Pixel conference in 2015. I was interested in transmedia storytelling to support my feature film, The Cake Maker, and was looking for ways to expand the story-world. The IMAX had a 360° VR video exhibition, and I visited both days. I was in awe of how the experiences made me feel, and felt an instant connection to this immersive medium. Initially I resisted getting involved, but opportunities began to open up for me so I took the plunge.
Are you working on anything exciting at the moment?
Previously I completed a proof of concept for Guy’s Hospital called Dental 360, which is a project that will help patients overcome their fear of visiting the dentist. We’re now developing a compassionate care video to support training. We’re at the script stage and are looking for funding. This will be a narrative piece shot in the 360° video format from two perspectives.
“I admired the range of shots, use of drones, underwater shooting and boldness of the shoot”
Is there a piece of content you’ve seen that you really like? If so, why did it have an impact?
Against Blue Currents by Hiverlab, about people with disabilities scuba diving and their desire to try something new despite the challenges. The filming allowed you to appreciate the freedom and weightlessness they gained. I admired the range of shots, use of drones, underwater shooting and boldness of the shoot.
What are you most excited about for the future of 360° VR video (software, cameras, emerging talent)?
To be able to move and navigate like you would in a game. For the software to make it more interactive.
If you had an endless budget for an immersive project, what would you do?
I’d like to recreate the good and bad of a clubbing experience where you could wander around a venue and have interactive encounters in different rooms, with the mission to be reunited with your friends. A branching narrative where you control the outcome, but there would be a ticking clock and you would gain time and have a deeper experience depending on your choices. Kind of like Eyes Wide Shut, with a blurring of the real and surreal.
How do you think 360° videos differ from other types of media?
I think you can build a stronger relationship with the audience, because you can bring together techniques from other media to suit your purposes. You can experiment and try new ways of storytelling. Yes, there are rules to avoid sickness but it’s an open field.
What can be done by both creators and companies such as Blend Media to diversify the industry?
Networking is crucial, and for building the community. Learn from each other and collaborate. I’m happy to admit when I don’t understand how something’s done, but then I look at my skillset and think what can I contribute to a process. You have to reach out to other industries and support those who want to learn more. Diversity needs to be present at the creative beginning of projects to prevent the industry suffering the limitations and exclusions of other media.
“Networking is crucial, and for building the community. Learn from each other and collaborate”
Do you have any advice for other videographers and cinematographers looking to create 360˚ videos?
Just start and you’ll discover the stories you want to tell. It may feel like a big leap, but it’s a great opportunity to be at the forefront of a new creative frontier.
What can be done by both creators and companies such as Blend Media to diversify the industry?
Networking is crucial, and for building the community. Learn from each other and collaborate. I’m happy to admit when I don’t understand how something’s done, but then I look at my skillset and think what can I contribute to a process. You have to reach out to other industries and support those who want to learn more. Diversity needs to be present at the creative beginning of projects to prevent the industry suffering the limitations and exclusions of other media.
Do you have any advice for other videographers and cinematographers looking to create 360˚ videos?
Just start and you’ll discover the stories you want to tell. It may feel like a big leap, but it’s a great opportunity to be at the forefront of a new creative frontier.
