One of the roles in which Light Illusion specialises is the design and development of Digital Intermediate and Digital Film businesses and workflows.

The above diagram is a workflow development done for a new start-up DI operation looking to perform work on new projects - for feature films and tv - as well as working on restoration for classic films.

The whole project was researched in-depth, and each system chosen for it's best application.

Input is via a DSX film transfer engine, although a pin registered scanner (possibly a Cintel diTTo) is in phase two of the build. The 'telecine' approach was chosen initially as real-time SD and HD 10bit LOG transfers are required.

Initially NAS or SAN central storage was to be the choice, however, the introduction of Quantel's Shared Storage System (Gene Pool) altered the design parameters, and this Central Storage system was then specified (see SAN Workflows for more info on SAN limitations - and workarounds).

The original workflow diagram can be seen here.

The main DI workflow is via a Quantel iQ Pablo on-line and grading room using digital projection, and an initial specification of a DVS Clipster to providing more basic editing and grading for lower budget projects has been replaced with a Quantel I/O and QC workstation connected to the Gene Pool Shared Storage.

DI assist workstations and 3D systems will also be connected via the Gene Pool, with 3D, renderfarm, etc, as necessary.

An automated restoration system provided for film fix work, using local JBOD storage for real-time playback of work in progress, again with local renderfarm.

Final deliverables are via the iQ Pablo and the I/O QC system, for video, and Arri Laser for film-out recording.

A data tape facility provides for longer-term archive.

This is obviously a very 'Quantel' centric solution, but that was part of the initial customer requirement. Similar workflows are equally possible based on alternative DI systems - just take your pick on your preference .

For additional information on workflow development please contact Steve Shaw directly.