Visual effects (VFX) have become crucial in the world of filmmaking, revolutionizing storytelling and creativity across the film industry. However, the high costs associated with VFX tools often put independent filmmakers and content creators at a disadvantage compared to larger productions. In response to this issue, a new company called Beeble AI has emerged, aiming to level the playing field using artificial intelligence (AI).
Based in South Korea, Beeble AI specializes in virtual lighting solutions for filmmakers and visual effects artists. By developing tools that reduce the high costs typically associated with creating top-quality visual effects, Beeble AI empowers indie filmmakers and content creators to compete with larger studios. Recently, the startup secured $4.75 million in seed funding led by Set Ventures, with Fika Ventures also participating, resulting in a valuation of $25 million.
Founded in 2022 by five co-founding members who previously worked at the AI research and machine learning team of South Korean game publisher Krafton, Beeble AI focuses on AI-driven content creation. The startup’s flagship product, SwitchLight Studio, is a desktop app that offers relighting and composition within virtual environments. In the future, the app will be rebranded as Virtual Studio to reflect its comprehensive capabilities.
CEO and co-founder Hoon Kim explained that while Beeble AI initially concentrated on virtual lighting, the company is now expanding towards developing full virtual production studios. Kim envisions a future where small teams of fewer than 10 artists can produce content that rivals major Hollywood studios, democratizing the filmmaking process.
Virtual production involves integrating virtual and physical settings during film creation. Instead of traditional green screens, high-end virtual production employs large LED screens to create immersive on-location shooting experiences. However, the cost and complexity of this technology have limited its accessibility to filmmakers with substantial budgets.
Unlike traditional virtual production companies, Beeble AI’s platform virtualizes real actors into the digital world, allowing users to access various locations, lighting options, and camera angles with just a phone camera. This innovation opens up new possibilities for content creators and filmmakers, enabling them to produce high-quality videos more efficiently.
Beeble AI’s focus on predictability and ease of manipulation distinguishes it from other generative AI models like OpenAI’s Sora and Runway. While these models may produce random content or alter original images, Beeble AI prioritizes control and precision to help creators tell compelling stories effectively.
The startup’s foundational AI model allows users to adjust lighting, environments, and camera movements during post-production, leading to significant cost reductions. By digitizing 2D footage into accurate 3D representations, Beeble AI empowers artists to modify various elements of their projects with ease. This capability not only reduces budget constraints but also enhances storytelling possibilities for creators.
With plans to expand its business to a virtual production studio platform, Beeble AI aims to further develop its foundational AI model, enhance its product offerings, and grow its team of seven employees. By leveraging this recent funding, the company seeks to revolutionize the filmmaking industry by making advanced AI technology more accessible to content creators worldwide.
