Gaussian Splats technology is poised to replace 2.5D plates in virtual production as Volinga launches new tools and a professional capture network. The next-generation reality capture method offers advantages over traditional photogrammetry by using Gaussian primitives specifically designed for capturing real-world environments with superior handling of night scenes, reflections, and translucency.

Camera Registration Refined: Volinga's update streamlines the crucial alignment phase

The latest Volinga update (v0.5) addresses several key technical hurdles that previously limited professional adoption:

• New ACES color management pipeline allows for HDR workflows from capture through Unreal Engine rendering

• Support for camera alignments from industry-standard software including RealityCapture and Metashape

• Ability to combine multiple Gaussian Splat models in a single Unreal Engine scene with no limits on model count

• Import compatibility with externally-created Gaussian Splats in PLY format, opening the door to custom workflows

Production Partnerships: New capture network addresses the expertise bottleneck

Recognizing that capture expertise remains a significant barrier to adoption, Volinga has launched a global network of 3D capture professionals:

• The Volinga Capture Network connects productions with specialized teams across regions including UK, France, and Korea

• These partners bring diverse capture methodologies including LiDAR integration, drone photography, and multi-camera rigs

• The network aims to provide production-ready assets directly to VP studios, similar to established photogrammetry services

• Each provider has developed specialized workflows for different capture scenarios, acknowledging that no single solution fits all use cases

The Bigger Picture: Gaussian Splats finding the sweet spot between manual 3D and 2.5D solutions

Volinga believes Gaussian Splats occupy a strategic middle ground in the virtual production toolkit:

• Current applications include preserving TV/film sets for marketing, behind-the-scenes content, or later production needs

• Broadcast uses range from sports presentation enhancements to news visualization of natural disasters or accidents

• The technology offers significant cost reduction by allowing physical sets to be replaced with digital captures

• While polygons won't disappear, the efficiency gains of Gaussian Splats may lead them to replace 2.5D methods entirely within a few years

• Industry adoption is accelerating as technical barriers fall and the quality reaches production standards