Culmination of the Fox Sports Season-Long Technological Innovation Journey for the NFC Championship Game
Production Marvel: A Technological Showcase
As the NFL regular season concludes, Fox Sports’ operations team is preparing for their final act of the season: the NFC Championship Game. The magnitude of this event is reflected in the massive production setup, featuring an extensive arsenal of cutting-edge technology and a dedicated team of over 200 crew members.
Camera Array: A Symphony of Visual Excellence
The production will utilize a comprehensive camera complement, totaling over 50 units, to capture every angle of the game. This includes four native-4K cameras, enabling precise framing and extraction of HD scenes. Two Sony HDC-5500 goal-line robos will provide pristine footage of critical scoring plays, while two HDC-4800’s will be strategically positioned for expansive views. These cameras are equipped with high-end lenses, offering exceptional clarity and flexibility.
End Zone Coverage: Unveiling Every Detail
The end zone, a crucial area in football, receives special attention with the deployment of 8K goalpost cameras in both end zones. These cameras deliver a comprehensive view of the entire end zone, allowing for precise extraction of key moments during replays. Additionally, PylonCams, featuring a combination of high-resolution cameras, are positioned at the goal line and back line of each end zone. These systems provide immersive footage, capturing every nuance of the action.
High-Frame-Rate Cameras: Capturing the Unseen
To capture the game’s rapid sequences and intricate details, Fox Sports will employ 14 high-frame-rate cameras. These cameras operate at higher frame rates, enabling slow-motion replays that reveal previously unseen moments.
Aerial Perspectives: Unveiling the Big Picture
Adding to the visual spectacle, Fox Sports will utilize a Skycam wired aerial system, providing dynamic aerial shots of the game. Additionally, a fixed-wing aerial camera will capture sweeping views of the stadium and its surroundings.
Drone Footage: A First for Levi’s Stadium
In a historic move, Fox Sports received clearance to operate a live drone during its coverage, becoming the first NFL broadcaster to do so at Levi’s Stadium. This drone will capture unique angles and perspectives, showcasing the stadium and its surroundings in a captivating manner.
Mobile Studio: A Dynamic Broadcast Center
On the field, Fox Sports has partnered with Filmwerks to create a mobile studio set, providing a dedicated space for pre/postgame and halftime shows. This set can be swiftly collapsed and moved during game time, ensuring minimal disruption to the action.
Compound Setup: A Hub of Connectivity
The truck compound at Levi’s Stadium is a bustling hub of activity, featuring a fleet of mobile units. Game Creek Video Encore A, B, and C units serve as the primary production vehicles, while Moonshine A and B and Edit 4 cater to the onsite studio show. Support trailers house various offices and an executive lounge, facilitating seamless operations.
Behind the Scenes: A Collaborative Effort
The success of this production relies heavily on the tireless efforts of the Fox Sports operations team and technical managers, who work diligently week after week to deliver exceptional broadcasts. This season has been a testament to their dedication and expertise, culminating in the grand spectacle of the NFC Championship Game.
A Call to Action
As Fox Sports embarks on this technological journey, we invite you to join us on this historic broadcast. Witness the pinnacle of innovation in sports production and be a part of this unforgettable event. Tune in to the NFC Championship Game and experience the excitement like never before!