Beeble AI Revolutionizes VFX for Indie Filmmakers with AI-Powered Virtual Production

Beeble AI Revolutionizes VFX for Indie Filmmakers with AI-Powered Virtual Production
Image credit: Beeble

Visual effects (VFX) have become essential in filmmaking, enhancing storytelling and creativity. However, the high cost of VFX tools often hinders independent filmmakers and content creators with limited budgets from competing with larger productions. Beeble AI, a South Korea-based startup, aims to solve this issue using artificial intelligence.

Founded in 2022 by five former AI and machine learning team members of South Korean game publisher Krafton, Beeble AI has developed virtual lighting solutions to make Hollywood-level VFX affordable. Their flagship product, SwitchLight Studio, is a desktop app offering relighting and composition within virtual environments. The app will be rebranded as Virtual Studio later this year.

The startup recently secured $4.75 million in seed funding led by Basis Set Ventures and Fika Ventures, valuing the company at $25 million. Beeble AI CEO and co-founder Hoon Kim shared that the new funds will support the development of their AI model, product enhancements, and staff expansion.

Beeble AI’s primary goal is to democratize high-end VFX, enabling small teams to produce content comparable to major Hollywood studios. Their approach contrasts traditional virtual production methods that rely on expensive LED walls, making advanced VFX accessible even with a phone camera. Users can create intricate virtual environments, lighting, and camera options.

Kim explained that while virtual production has rapidly grown in popularity, it remains costly. Disney+’s "The Mandalorian" exemplifies the technology’s potential. Beeble AI aims to virtualize real actors into virtual worlds, allowing filmmakers to shoot complex scenes without the need for costly equipment.

The startup emphasizes predictability and control in VFX creation, addressing the limitations of generative AI models that often produce random content. Beeble AI’s foundational model enables precise adjustments to lighting, environments, and camera movements during post-production, significantly cutting costs.

Their foundational AI model can digitize 2D footage into accurate 3D representations, providing creators with complete control over their projects. This capability allows users to create cinematic shots with just an iPhone, breaking down budgetary barriers.

Beeble AI began generating revenue last October, with around 3 million downloads of its SwitchLight mobile app. The startup plans to expand its virtual production studio platform and integrate advanced relighting features into apps like Caption AI.

With this innovative approach, Beeble AI is set to empower indie filmmakers and content creators, leveling the playing field in the film industry.