3D Scanning the Manhattan Bridge for Virtual Production
In an insightful collaboration with Toronto based WeFX, MYND Workshop embarked on a project to digitize a segment of Brooklyn's DUMBO neighborhood which is nestled under the Manhattan Bridge, transforming it into a dynamic backdrop for use on one of their virtual productions. Employing cutting-edge LiDAR and photogrammetry technologies, the team meticulously captured the essence of urban textures and iconic elements, including the iconic Manhattan Bridge tunnel and historic industrial buildings. This digital landscape was not only used for realistic backgrounds in live-action shots but also played a crucial role in scene lighting, enhancing the authenticity of the virtual production environment.
Raw LiDAR Point Cloud of Anchorage Place in Brooklyn, NY
Raw LiDAR Point Cloud of Anchorage Place in Brooklyn, NY
Raw meshed point cloud from 3D scan (before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of DUMBO neighborhood from 3D Environment Scan (before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of DUMBO neighborhood from 3D Environment Scan (before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of DUMBO neighborhood from 3D Environment Scan (before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of Manhattan Bridge Tunnel from 3D Scan (before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of Manhattan Bridge Tunnel from 3D Scan (before cleaning)
The crux of this endeavor was the creation of a highly detailed, ultra-high-polygon mesh that accurately reflected the unique character of DUMBO and Anchorage Place (also known as Pearl Street Triangle). By integrating these environment scans into the Unreal Engine, WeFX was able to achieve an immersive virtual setting that resonated with the real-world charm of the neighborhood. This process underscored the potential of 3D scanning and virtual production technologies in capturing and replicating the intricacies of real-world locations for cinematic purposes.
Raw Polygonal Mesh of Manhattan Bridge Tunnel base from 3D Scan (textured, before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of Manhattan Bridge Tunnel from 3D Scan (mesh only, before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of Manhattan Bridge Tunnel from 3D Scan (textured mesh, before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of Manhattan Bridge Tunnel from 3D Scan (mesh only, before cleaning)
Raw Polygonal Mesh of Manhattan Bridge Tunnel from 3D Scan (textured mesh, before cleaning)
This project with WeFX highlights MYND Workshop's prowess in bridging the gap between traditional filming techniques and the innovative realm of virtual production. By transforming a portion of Brooklyn into a versatile digital twin, MYND Workshop has set a new standard for realism and efficiency in the entertainment industry, demonstrating the transformative impact of 3D scanning in the historic preservation and virtual environment creation.