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“Every Minute Counts”: EFD Studios at the heart of this major production

EFD Studios reaffirms its commitment to large-scale productions through its expertise and cutting-edge technology. In the dramatic series Every Minute Counts (Aka “Cada minuto cuenta), produced by Amazon Studios and Traziende Films, the technical team and know-how of EFD Studios were fundamental in bringing to the screen a gripping story of survival and tension, delivered with impactful realism. Jorge Michel Grau, director of Every Minute Counts. Courtesy of JORGE Michel Grau, property of AMAZON Studios. Directed by Jorge Michel Grau, the series stars a remarkable cast, including Osvaldo Benavides (La Suerte de Loli, Monarca, Lo que la vida me robó), Maya Zapata (Horario Estelar, At Midnight, El Secreto de Selena), Jesús Zavala (Club de Cuervos, Búnker, Dime cuando tú), and Antonio de la Vega (Club de Cuervos, ¿Quién mató a Sara?, Un extraño enemigo). With cinematography by Santiago Sánchez, AMC (Somos lo que hay, La gran seducción), the 10-episode series transports viewers to the days following Mexico City's devastating 1985 earthquake, portraying the lives of those who fought to survive and protect their loved ones. Courtesy of: JORGE Michel Grau, property of AMAZON Studios State-of-the-Art Technology for Unparalleled Realism The production of Every Minute Counts combined real locations with Mexico City's Churubusco studio facilities, featuring a wide array of high-quality equipment provided by EFD Studios. From grip equipment like the Fisher 11 dolly to an advanced lighting setup featuring industry-leading HMI units, including ARRI Max 18K, M40, and M90, as well as SkyPanel (S60, S120, S360), Aputure (60X, 600C, and MCs), Asteras (Titan and Helios), Litegear (LiteTile 8), and Kino Flo. This selection ensured that each shot captured the intensity and visual realism demanded by the series, particularly in its most dramatic scenes. Courtesy of: JORGE Michel Grau, property of AMAZON Studios EFD Studios had the chance to speak with director Jorge Michel Grau, who shared how lighting was crucial in conveying a claustrophobic atmosphere: “To give a sense of entrapment, we decided that each space would have its own type of lighting...during the earthquake scenes, we moved not only the objects but also the shadows. We moved lights that cast shadows on walls or characters, which allows light to function as a narrative tool. It wasn’t just about illuminating what’s in front of the camera; it was about making the audience feel what’s in front of the camera.” Courtesy of: JORGE Michel Grau, property of AMAZON Studios Large-Scale Virtual Production: A Milestone for Latin America Every Minute Counts is a milestone for Latin American production, marking the region’s first large-scale virtual production. This ability to manipulate environments in real-time granted creators unique creative flexibility, allowing for more authentic scenes that made the storytelling immersive and genuine. Grau elaborates on this innovation: “The context helps embrace your characters. With green screen, the cinematographer lacks full reference and usually resorts to medium shots. In contrast, virtual production is like shooting on location, giving us a lot of control over backgrounds, and the cinematographer can frame, balance, and compose a shot that enhances the actor, the story, and especially the character’s emotional moment.” Courtesy of: JORGE Michel Grau, property of AMAZON Studios EFD Studios and the Future of Virtual Sets The use of virtual sets in productions like Every Minute Counts represents a significant shift in the film industry, where studios increasingly explore this technology to overcome the physical limitations of traditional sets. EFD Studios, committed to advancing this technology, plans to open Europe’s largest virtual production studio space in Spain. With state-of-the-art LED screens and advanced rendering and lighting control technology, filmmakers will be able to create diverse, real-time environments that maximize realism and creative control. Virtual production is emerging as a solution that promotes safer, more sustainable, and more efficient filming, expanding narrative and aesthetic possibilities for the audiovisual industry. Every Minute Counts premieres on Prime Video on November 8. Teaser | Amazon Prime:  

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EFD Studios Announces the Largest Virtual Production Set in Europe and Unveils Training Initiatives in Mexico with Inna Payán and in Spain

This new set will be the largest on the European continent and will bring about a transformation in European audiovisual production. This set will not only boost technology, but also promote greener practices within the audiovisual industry. Circa 24, EFD Studios' training initiative in collaboration with Animal de Luz Films (Inna Payán), will promote film education in Mexico and develop talent in the industry. EFD Studios Academy has a new approach to Technical Training in Spain, offering training to young talent as well as providing updating training for working professionals. Madrid, October 3rd, 2024 – During Iberseries & Platino Industria, Georgina Terán, EFD Studios CEO, announced today the construction of the largest virtual production set in Europe, marking a milestone in the audiovisual industry. This innovative facility will have more than 2,000 m² of set space equipped with LED technology and state-of-the-art computer and processing chain. The set will be located in Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, offering creators an advanced working environment to explore new dimensions of creativity and production efficiency.  The panel entitled “Virtual Production: A Game-Changer”, Georgina Terán (CEO of EFD Studios), Mauricio van Hasselt (VP On-Set Producer, Pixomondo), David Monguet (VP Producer, MO&MO Studio), Migue Amoedo (Director of Photography AEC), and Amaya Muruzábal (Showrunner and CEO of M Content), moderated by Ismael Issa (Director of Photography AEC), discussed the tremendous advantages and possibilities offered by this technology, as well as its impact on current productions.  This set construction reinforces EFD Studios' dedication to the modernization of the audiovisual industry in Europe. This cutting-edge space will not only attract major international productions but will also help to optimize resources and reduce environmental impact, consolidating Spain as a benchmark in European film production.  Commitment to the Training and Development of Local Talent in Mexico and Spain  EFD Studios also reaffirmed its commitment to the training and development of local talent through two important initiatives announced during a cocktail party that took place after the panel:  CIRCA 24: In collaboration with Animal de Luz Films and its director Inna Payán, Circa 24 seeks to foster film training in Mexico, providing new opportunities for emerging talent and strengthening the country's audiovisual industry. Circa 24 is a school specializing in professional training in film, television and performing arts, distinguished by its multidisciplinary approach. Its methodology combines theory and practice, allowing students to integrate into both the creative and technical areas of the audiovisual industry. The programs cover areas such as directing, scriptwriting, production, acting, as well as a wide range of technical specialties, providing a complete and updated training that promotes a creative community focused on all areas of the audiovisual industry. Learn more about it here: https://circa24.mx/ EFD STUDIOS ACADEMY: EFD Studios Academy in Spain will focus its efforts on technical training, offering programs designed for both young talents and working professionals. In this vocational school, highly qualified professionals will be trained with a comprehensive approach in the technical and specialized areas most in demand at present. The audiovisual sector has traditionally relied on the transmission of knowledge, which is currently insufficient given the accelerated growth of the industry at a national and international level.  With the increasing demand for highly qualified professionals, driven by streaming platforms and tax incentives, EFD Studios is standing as a recognized and trusted expert in the industry. Its approach combines practical training, rigor and specialization, responding to the opportunities offered by an ever-expanding industry. Learning will be focused on technical areas that have been historically underserved in the academic offerings, aiming to be a genuine steppingstone to the professional arena and add value to the audiovisual industry. EFD Studios Academy's mission is to unite training and industry in a single process, ensuring that trained professionals have the required skills to excel and meet the demands of the market.  Innovation and Sustainability Impact  These initiatives not only drive technological innovation in the audiovisual production, but also reflect EFD Studios' commitment to sustainability and social responsibility, contributing to the growth of a stronger and more diverse film ecosystem.  About Animal de Luz  Animal de Luz is the production company headed by Inna Payán, Mexican producer with more than 20 years of experience in the audiovisual industry, with over 30 films produced and 6 TV series. Since 2011, the company has positioned itself as one of the leading Mexican film production companies.  Inna actively participates in the Mexican Association of Independent Producers, is the Vice President of the Mexican Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and is member of The Academy.  Her filmography includes La Jaula de Oro (Dir. Diego Quemada-Diez), winner of 81 international awards, including Un Certain Regard at the 2013 Cannes Film Festival; La Libertad del Diablo (Dir. Everardo González), winner of the Amnesty International Film Prize at the 2017 Berlin International Film Festival; Todos están muertos (Dir. Beatriz Sanchis), starring Elena Anaya; and Los Lobos (Dir. Samuel Kishi), winner of the Generation KPlus Grand Prix at the 2020 Berlin International Film Festival.  EFD Studios at Iberseries & Platino Industria 2024 – A Visual Journey.

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EFD Studios at Iberseries & Platino Industria 2024 – A Visual Journey

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Pedro Páramo: A Cinematic Adaptation Directed by Rodrigo Prieto with EFD Studios’ Equipment

The celebrated novel by Mexican author Juan Rulfo, first published in 1955, is being brought to the big screen under the direction of Rodrigo Prieto, ASC, AMC. Known for his work on Barbie, The Wolf of Wall Street, and Argo, Prieto. The screenplay is adapted by Mateo Gil (Vanilla Sky, Agora, Realive). The film stars Manuel García-Rulfo (The Magnificent Seven, Murder on the Orient Express) as Pedro Páramo and Tenoch Huerta (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, The Forever Purge) as Juan Preciado. Rodrigo Prieto, who’s not only directing but also overseeing the cinematography, relied on cutting-edge equipment from EFD Studios to achieve his vision. For this production EFD Studios provided mobile lighting and grip equipment, ARRI’s M-series lights, SkyPanels, power generators, and a Fisher Dolly 11. These advanced tools were essential in capturing the high cinematic quality visible in the film's early images. The plot follows Juan Preciado (played by Huerta), who embarks on a journey to find the father he never knew, Pedro Páramo. However, upon arriving in the town of Comala, he encounters only ghostly memories of a place long dominated by the shadow of his father.  Pedro Páramo is produced by Redrum and will premiere on November 6, 2024, exclusively on Netflix.

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EFD’s co-production “Casi el Paraíso” opens in Mexican theaters on September 12

In 1956, Luis Spota wrote the first great Mexican bestseller, Casi el Paraíso, as an attempt to portray a Mexico marked by corruption, power and ambition. 68 years later, the long-awaited film adaptation finally arrives in theaters in a co-production by Film Tank, Interlinea Films, Cinépolis Distribución, Telemundo Studios and EFD in association with The Lift.  September features one of the most eagerly awaited premieres of the year for Mexican cinema. Directed by Edgar San Juan and with a stellar cast headed by Karol Sevilla (Soy Luna, Siempre fui yo), Andrea Arcangeli (Romulus, La primera profecía), Miguel Rodarte (Destilando México, Tiempo Compartido) and Esmeralda Pimentel (El Color de la Pasión, Cachito de Cielo), the film promises a new take on this classic work. Cinematography for Casi el Paraíso was handled by AMC's Alejandro Cantú (Carmín Tropical, El Juego de las Llaves) who worked with his production team using an Alexa 35 camera stabilized with a Scorpio 38, Cooke lenses and a lighting design with Asteras. The film combines classic elements of the original novel with a contemporary vision, addressing topics such as power, corruption and social media's impact on today's society.

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EFD Digital Supports Post-Production of Pimpinero: Blood and Oil

EFD Digital is proud to have contributed to the post-production of Pimpinero: Blood and Oil, a Dynamo production for Prime Video. The film had its world premiere on September 9 at the 49th Toronto International Film Festival. The film showcases a renowned cast including Alberto Guerra (El Señor de los Cielos, Ingobernable, Ladrón de Corazones), Alejandro Speitzer (La Cabeza de Joaquín Murrieta, Dark Desire, Someone Has to Die), and Laura Osma (El Chapo, Fugitivos, El Suspiro del Silencio). Furthermore, the film marks the on-screen acting debut of Colombian singer Juanes.  Directed by Andrés Baiz (Griselda, Narcos, The Hidden Face), who also produced the film and co-wrote the screenplay together with María Camila Arias (Soleil de Nuit, Candelaria, Clara Sola), the film features Mateo Londoño (AMC) as its director of photography. Pimpinero: Blood and Oil follows the Estrada brothers, oil smugglers known as "Pimpineros", who risk their lives transporting illegal fuel across the dangerous Colombian-Venezuelan border. The film will be released in theaters on October 10, with a subsequent release on Prime Video.

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Netflix-approved cameras in 2024: Complete list of those authorized for their productions

In the film industry, maintaining high-quality standards is crucial. Netflix, one of the world’s leading distributors of audiovisual content, has a rigorous selection process for the cameras used in its productions. In this article, we present a comprehensive list of the cameras approved by Netflix for 2024. This resource is essential for filmmakers who need to meet the technical requirements of this top platform. List of Netflix-Approved Cameras for 2024 Below is a detailed list of cameras approved by Netflix for use in their 2024 productions. This list features cameras from various renowned brands in the film industry, recognized for their quality and capabilities. 1. ARRI ARRI cameras are known for their exceptional quality and reliability in the film industry, making them ideal for high-budget productions and feature films. At EFD, we offer all these ARRI camera models for rental. ARRI Alexa LF: With a large-format sensor, the ARRI Alexa LF is perfect for capturing images with impressive dynamic range and depth of field. ARRI Alexa ini LFM: The Alexa Mini LF combines the power of large-format imaging in a compact design, ideal for tight spaces or complex shots. ARRI Alexa 65: Featuring a 65mm sensor, the ARRI Alexa 65 is ideal for productions seeking exceptional resolution and a wide field of view. ARRI Alexa 35: Known for its versatility, this camera captures detailed and faithful images in various lighting conditions.   2. Canon Canon is a brand recognized for its innovation and quality in digital cameras, widely used in many cinematic and television productions. Canon C300 Mk II: The Canon C300 Mk II is known for its reliability and 4K recording capability, making it a versatile choice for documentaries and independent films. Canon C300 Mk III: With significant improvements in dynamic range and image quality, the C300 Mk III is perfect for high-quality productions requiring flexibility. Canon C500 Mk II: This camera delivers an impressive 5.9K performance and is highly adaptable, making it ideal for feature films and TV series. Canon C700 FF: The Canon C700 FF features a full-frame sensor, delivering detailed images and exceptional performance in low-light conditions. Canon EOS C70: Compact yet powerful, the EOS C70 is perfect for productions that demand mobility without compromising image quality. Canon EOS R5 C: The EOS R5 C combines high-quality photography and video technology, making it an excellent choice for hybrid productions. Canon C700: The C700 is a sturdy and reliable camera, ideal for film and television productions that require durability and performance.   3. Panasonic Panasonic is renowned for producing versatile and reliable high-quality cameras, used in a wide range of film productions. Panasonic VariCam 35: Known for its excellent image quality and 4K recording capability, the VariCam 35 is perfect for feature films and TV series. Panasonic VariCam LT: With a lighter and more compact design, the VariCam LT is ideal for productions requiring mobility and flexibility. Panasonic S1H: The S1H offers 6K recording capabilities, making it an excellent choice for productions seeking high resolution and detail. Panasonic BGH1: This camera is perfect for multi-camera setups and drones, thanks to its compact design and advanced recording capabilities. Panasonic BS1H: Similar to the BGH1 but with 6K recording capabilities, the BS1H is perfect for productions that need high resolution in a compact form. Panasonic AK-UC4000: The AK-UC4000 is a high-end 4K studio camera, ideal for live productions and studio recordings that demand the highest image quality.   4. RED RED is synonymous with high resolution and cinematic quality, offering an impressive range of options for various productions. RED DSMC2 / WEAPON MONSTRO 8K VV: With its large-format sensor, the WEAPON MONSTRO 8K VV is ideal for productions seeking maximum resolution and image quality. RED RAVEN 4.5K: The RAVEN is a more affordable option than RED, perfect for independent productions and projects requiring high image quality on a budget. RED RANGER MONSTRO 8K VV: The RANGER MONSTRO is an all-in-one camera with 8K capabilities, perfect for large-scale film productions. RED RANGER HELIUM 8K S35: With its HELIUM sensor, this camera offers high resolution and flexibility in a rugged design. RED RANGER GEMINI 5K S35: The RANGER GEMINI is perfect for productions requiring flexibility in varying lighting conditions, thanks to its GEMINI sensor. RED DSMC2 DRAGON-X 6K S35: This camera offers the versatility and high quality of the DRAGON sensor in a compact form, making it ideal for a wide range of productions. RED KOMODO 6K: The KOMODO is a compact and versatile camera, perfect for productions that need mobility and high image quality. RED V-RAPTOR 8K VV: The V-RAPTOR provides maximum 8K resolution in a compact form, ideal for productions seeking the highest image quality. RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K VV: With a more robust design, the V-RAPTOR XL is perfect for film productions that require high resolution and durability. RED V-RAPTOR 8K S35: Offering the same 8K resolution with a Super 35 sensor, this camera is ideal for a variety of cinematic productions. RED V-RAPTOR XL 8K S35: Featuring a rugged design and a Super 35 sensor, the V-RAPTOR XL is ideal for productions that need high resolution and durability. RED KOMODO-X: An advanced version of the KOMODO, this camera is perfect for productions that seek higher performance in a compact form.   5. Panavision Panavision is a legendary brand in the film industry, known for its high-quality cameras used in major Hollywood productions. Panavision DXL2: The DXL2 is a large-format camera offering exceptional image quality, ideal for feature films and high-budget productions.   6. Sony Sony is known for its innovation and quality in digital cameras, widely used in a broad range of film and television productions. Sony VENICE: The Sony VENICE is a high-end digital cinema camera, known for its full-frame sensor and excellent low-light performance. Sony FX9: A digital cinema camera offering a full-frame sensor and high image quality, ideal for various productions. Sony F55: The F55 is renowned for its 4K recording capabilities and flexibility in various lighting conditions, making it perfect for film and television productions. Sony F65: With an 8K sensor, the F65 is ideal for high-end cinema productions that demand the highest resolution and image quality. Sony FS7 / FS7 II: These cameras are known for their versatility and 4K recording capabilities, making them perfect for documentaries and television productions. Sony F5: The F5 is a versatile, high-quality camera, ideal for a wide range of cinematic and television productions. Sony FX6: Compact yet powerful, the FX6 is perfect for productions that require mobility without compromising image quality. Sony FR7: The FR7 is ideal for live productions and studio recordings, thanks to its robust design and advanced capabilities. Sony PXW-Z450: The PXW-Z450 is a 4K studio camera, ideal for live productions and studio recordings that require the highest image quality. Sony PXW-Z750: With its 4K sensor, the PXW-Z750 is perfect for productions that seek high resolution and detail in a compact design. Sony FX3: Compact and lightweight, the FX3 is ideal for productions that require high image quality and mobility. Sony HDC-F5500: The HDC-F5500 is a high-end 4K studio camera, perfect for live productions and studio recordings.   7. Blackmagic Design Blackmagic Design is known for its affordable, high-quality cameras, used in a wide range of film and television productions. Blackmagic Design URSA Mini 4.6K: The URSA Mini 4.6K offers excellent image quality at an affordable price, ideal for independent films and documentaries. Blackmagic Design URSA Mini PRO 12K OLPF: With its impressive 12K resolution, this camera is perfect for productions seeking maximum image quality and detail. Blackmagic Design URSA Mini PRO 4.6K G2: The G2 offers enhanced performance and high image quality, making it ideal for film and television productions. Blackmagic Design URSA Mini PRO 12K OLPF: With its impressive 12K resolution, this camera is perfect for productions that demand the highest image quality and detail.   Conclusion The list of cameras approved by Netflix for 2024 includes a wide range of brands and models that meet the platform's strict quality standards. These cameras, from robust options like ARRI, RED, and SONY to versatile choices like Canon and Panasonic, provide filmmakers with various tools to suit any type of production. By selecting a camera from this list, filmmakers can ensure they meet Netflix’s technical requirements for their projects.

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Guide to Camera Lenses and Their Uses in Filmmaking

In the world of cinema, precision and creativity come together to tell stories through images. One of the essential tools in this process is the camera lens. This guide is designed for film enthusiasts who want to understand the different types of lenses available and their specific applications in filmmaking. Below, we’ll explore the various types of lenses, their characteristics, and how they influence image quality and visual storytelling. Types of Lenses in Filmmaking The right lens choice can transform a scene in filmmaking. Lenses vary not only in construction and technical specifications but also in how they affect the narrative and visual aesthetics of a film. 1. Lenses by Focal Length Focal length determines a lens’s field of view and, depending on the aperture, how it renders depth. In filmmaking, this is crucial for creating the desired atmosphere and focus. Wide-Angle LensesWide-angle lenses have a short focal length, generally less than 35mm. These lenses provide a broad field of view, ideal for capturing expansive landscapes or tight interiors. In cinema, they’re used to create a sense of space and dynamic perspective, though they can cause edge distortion. Standard LensesWith a focal length between 35mm and 70mm, standard lenses offer a view similar to human vision. This makes them a versatile choice for various shots, providing a balance between field of view and depth. They are ideal for medium and general shots. Short Telephoto LensesShort telephoto lenses, with focal lengths between 70mm and 135mm, are perfect for portraits and tighter shots. These lenses isolate subjects from the background, highlighting details and minimizing distractions. Medium and Long Telephoto LensesWith focal lengths over 135mm, these lenses are used for distant shots and specific details without physically approaching the subject. In cinema, they’re useful for distant action scenes or nature shots, offering a narrow field of view and reduced depth of field.   2. Lenses by Aperture A lens’s aperture controls the amount of light entering the camera and affects depth of field. Fast Aperture LensesWith maximum apertures ranging from f/1.2 to f/2.8, these lenses excel in low-light conditions and create a very shallow depth of field, making them ideal for portraits and selective focus shots. In filmmaking, they help emphasize the subject against a blurred background, creating an intimate atmosphere. Standard Aperture LensesThese lenses have apertures between f/2.8 and f/5.6, offering a balance between light intake and depth of field. They are versatile and suitable for most filming conditions, providing good image quality without requiring excessive lighting.   3. Lenses by Format The camera sensor format influences lens choice, affecting field of view and image quality. For Full-Frame SensorsLenses designed for full-frame sensors provide a wide field of view and higher image quality. They are ideal for cinematic productions that demand greater detail, capturing fine details with shallower depth of field. EFD Studios offers a wide variety of full-frame lenses for rental to meet different production needs. For APS-C SensorsLenses for APS-C sensors are more compact and lightweight. Although they have a narrower field of view due to the crop factor, they are a good choice for those seeking quality without the high cost of full-frame systems. 4. Prime vs. Zoom Lenses The choice between prime and zoom lenses depends on the filming style and the specific needs of each production. Prime LensesPrime lenses have a fixed focal length. They offer superior image quality, with fewer aberrations and distortions. They are ideal for scenes requiring high image quality and precise depth of field control. Additionally, they usually have wider apertures, making them more effective in low-light conditions. Zoom LensesZoom lenses have a variable focal length, allowing you to change framing without swapping lenses. They are extremely versatile and save time on set. Although they may have more chromatic aberrations and a smaller maximum aperture than prime lenses, their flexibility makes them indispensable in many cinematic productions.   5. Special Lenses Beyond conventional lenses, there are lenses designed for specific purposes, adding unique effects to cinematic productions. Macro LensesMacro lenses allow you to capture images at very close distances, revealing minute details that aren’t visible to the naked eye. They are essential for shooting insects, flowers, or small objects, providing an extremely short minimum focusing distance. Fisheye LensesWith an extreme field of view, sometimes up to 180 degrees, fisheye lenses create characteristic visual distortion, making straight lines appear curved. They are used in cinema to create dramatic or surreal visual effects, offering a unique perspective. Tilt-Shift LensesThese lenses allow you to control the focal plane’s orientation, creating miniaturization effects and controlling depth of field. In cinema, they are used for creative effects and architectural shots, achieving selective and precise focus.   Choosing the right lens is crucial for any cinematic production, as it impacts both visual storytelling and image quality. From wide-angle lenses to tilt-shift lenses, each type offers unique features that can transform a scene. Understanding the types of lenses and their applications enables filmmakers to select the right tools to tell their stories more effectively and creatively. At EFD Studios, we are committed to providing a wide range of options to meet the needs of any cinematic production.

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