My Experience as an On Set VFX Shoot Supervisor for Chaava
On Set VFX Shoot Supervisor job was challenging from day 01. When I first stepped onto the set of Chaava, I knew this project would be one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my career.
As the On-Set VFX Supervisor, my responsibility wasn’t just about overseeing the effects but ensuring that every shot was captured with post-production in mind. Every decision I made on set would impact the final VFX output, and with a historical film of this scale, there was no room for error.
Pre-Production: Setting the Foundation
Before shooting even began, I worked closely with the director, cinematographer, and production team to break down the script and identify the VFX-heavy sequences. Since Chaava involved large-scale set extensions, CG environments, and battle sequences, it was crucial to plan everything meticulously.
One of the biggest challenges was ensuring historical accuracy while creating believable VFX. We couldn’t afford to take creative liberties that might compromise authenticity. That’s where HDRI and photogrammetry became key tools in my workflow. I planned every capture session, knowing that having precise lighting and texture data would make CG integration seamless.
On Set VFX Shoot Supervisor : Real Time Data
On set, things move fast. Being the On Set VFX Shoot Supervisor, I had to be fast and accurate. There are hundreds of people—actors, extras, set workers, and the technical team—all in constant motion. My job was to capture the necessary VFX data without slowing down the production.
For every major VFX shot, I ensured that:
- HDRI was captured accurately for realistic CG lighting. Using a Canon 5D Mark IV with a 14mm lens and a Nodal Ninja, I took multiple exposures to create high-quality HDRI maps.
- Photogrammetry was done immediately after cuts. I had to be quick, capturing 3D models of props, environments, and even entire sets before they changed or were removed.
- Lens and camera metadata were properly recorded. Every detail—lens focal length, camera movement, lighting conditions—was noted so that the post-production team had everything they needed.
One of the most challenging sequences in Chaava was the war scene in Burhanpur. The shield used by the lead
actor was all duplicates, and I knew that in post, they would need to be replaced with historically accurate CG shields. To ensure the replacement looked realistic, I scanned the correct shield design using photogrammetry and provided the VFX team with accurate models. Another major challenge
Post-Production: Ensuring a Seamless Workflow
Once shooting wrapped, my job wasn’t done. All the HDRI images needed to be stitched, and the photogrammetry models had to be processed before being handed off to the post-production team. I used PTGui for stitching HDRI and Meshroom for processing the 3D models. Every piece of data I provided had to be precise because any inaccuracies could cause problems in the final compositing.
Throughout post-production, I stayed involved, reviewing shots and ensuring the VFX blended seamlessly with the live-action footage. Being the On Set VFX Shoot Supervisor I had be the bridge between the requirements of the client. The goal was always to make the effects invisible—to make it feel as if everything captured on set was real.
What On Set VFX Shoot Supervisor Taught Me ?
Working on Chaava, as On Set VFX Shoot Supervisor, reinforced what I’ve always believed: VFX is not just about creating effects—it’s about problem-solving. Being on set means making quick decisions, adjusting to unpredictable changes, and working in sync with multiple departments. My background in compositing, lighting, and photography gave me an edge, allowing me to visualize shots even before they were captured.
Every project teaches you something new, and Chaava was no different. It challenged my skills, pushed my limits, and reminded me why I love working in VFX. Seeing the final film come together, knowing that all the invisible work done on set led to those stunning visuals—it made every challenge worth it.