A content platform as a joint project by ARTE in France and ZDF in Germany.
Let's make it quick but not dirty! Interactive and motion content with a journalistic claim
ARTE future is a content platform on scientific, geopolitical or socio-political topics that was launched as a joint project by ARTE in France and ZDF in Germany. ZDF Digital's task was to create content for this platform in the form of infographics, animations or videos. The first step was the research and preparation of topics, but then just as much a sensible placement of it on the website. On the one hand, these could be articles that were supplemented by short animations and information visualizations, on the other hand also stand-alone videos that allow to delve deeper into a topic were needed.
Improving conception and production
In order to be up to date according to journalistic challenges, a method had to be found to produce motion content quickly. The obvious choice was a combination of pre-produced graphic assets that could be used for other purposes, and various shots of protagonists to be combined in a wide variety. The modularity in conception and production with the appropriate organization of the shooting had the individual use of the shot material in a wide range as a result. This was not only relevant for a large amount of content, but also for the bilingual use in German and French.
One setup for a variety of possible creations
With top-class protagonists like Claus Kleber, a setup had to be created for the shoot, which allowed the majority of the filmed results to be carried out compactly and then one to produce the greatest possible range of video content. That means detailed planning and timing for the shooting. There was definitely no space for experiments!
With an optimized workflow the motion graphics were the less time-consuming factor and nevertheless even text elements could be adjusted quickly.
A smooth transfer from shoot to post production
As Creative Director and director of the video content it was not just my job to direct the shoot itself, but also to ensure a smooth transfer to the post production. We decided to use pre-produced 3D wireframe models of geographic elements and a range of HUI elements that we could quickly adapt and place in order to use them as a kit in real time and to align them to the movements. Thus, the motion graphics were the less time-consuming factor and nevertheless even text elements could be adjusted quickly.
Well-coordinated teams of cutters, motion designers and technical artists for an optimal workflow.
