Let the time stand still
with the bullet time effect!

Most people know the bullet time effect from Matrix 1. The camera circles the object while time seems to stand still. This special effect is known in the cinematic art as bullet time, in which an action is made visible from different angles. For example, a shot hits one person and during that time you can play this process in slow motion, backwards, or even slowed down. In most cases, the bullet time effect is used in action movies and video games.

Slow Motion Effect

Portable bullet time effect – We invented it!

In the film production Matrix 1, 120 cameras were installed in a circular fixed way. For this installation you need many days and even longer for post-production. In 2008, we have made it our goal to keep this effect portable with 25-35 cameras. After long research for suitable cameras and partners, we have developed a rig that allows us to attach 26 cameras and still be transportable for a cameraman. The 26 GoPro cameras are controlled simultaneously with a remote control. The timing is set manually in compositions in post-production. Now, the simultaneous time-frame is put together from al tracks in order for the new virtual camera to create the bullet time effect. If you think this was all, then you’re way off!

Each camera needs its own profile. Since in production are created lens tolerances, which must be carefully read out by hand on a grid. The recorded markers must be perfectly passed on to the next camera accordingly. Sounds complicated? Yes, it’s tremendously complicated.

From the 26 cameras we can create a maximum sequence of 10-12 seconds. Otherwise, pixel artefacts are formed. All further information can be found in the book we wrote on Amazon.

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Frozen Frames - The pocketbook to our invention!

Comprehensive support from Ximpix

On request we can apply this special effect for your next film production. From conception to optimal implementation and digital post production: Our production team with an academic background has solid knowledge as well as the necessary experience in the field of film production in order to create a successful work!

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How elaborate is the bullet time effect?

Our creative agency from Hanover offers you a mobile version in this area. Using the 26 handy GoPro Hero 4 Black Edition cameras, we can smoothly perform such bullet time film shots anywhere. This technique, which we have developed, has already been used for countless films, such as the shooting of the popular series “Tatort” with Til Schweiger.

Commercial Phantasialand

Tatort

Ximpix in action

Take a look at our shots and convince and inspire yourself by the breathtaking effect! Whether it´s for your film production, image film, advertising or your product video – Ximpix implements your ideas with our expertise and inexhaustible creativity.

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filmproduktion-hannover-ximpix-favicon   When creating a bullet time effect – also called frozen reality – several cameras are needed. Since in such a special effect a large number of single image shots of the same scene are lined-up. This creates an optical camera drive, a virtual camera. These shots allow you to view an action from many different angles at the same time, creating a new virtual camera.

filmproduktion-hannover-ximpix-faviconAlthough this principle is very simple in itself, it requires a lot of effort and often also the use of so-called CGI techniques. The corrections of the film images thus improve the deviation of the individual positions, the settings, such as the focus, and also the brightness. Minimal deviations in such shots are usually inevitable, what makes the use of CGI techniques indispensable in order to create a successful scene.

filmproduktion-hannover-ximpix-faviconLikewise, with complete rotational shots of objects, the cameras positioned at the opposite side can be seen. Because of this, for example, a green screen was used as background in the movie to replace the environment with photo-realistic computer graphics.