Storm Lab

Challenges and approach

Shooting with Robert and Anna Lewandowski came with one clear constraint: time.
We had just 5 to 10 minutes per setup with them — including all lighting adjustments, lens swaps, camera moves, and set changes — within a tight two-hour window that also included a full photo shoot.

“This was the kind of challenge I’ve always wanted — when the goal isn’t just to make it slick, but to make it slickin exactly five minutes. And we pulled it off!”

We didn’t sacrifice a single storyboarded shot with the Lewandowskis. Everything was captured exactly as planned. In addition to the main 15-second video, we delivered five more pieces ranging from 6 to 8 seconds each.

Naturally, the key to success here was preparation. The whole team — the director, set designer, crew, and myself — needed to be completely in sync. So I created a detailed video previz in Unreal Engine 5 for almost every shot. We locked in where each person stands, where the bikes are placed, and exactly how Robert and Anna move through the space.
Some shots, especially the close-ups, ended up matching the previz frame for frame. I truly love working in a time when a cinematographer can build 3D scenes and explore visual ideas with the director before stepping on set.

I'm really satisfied with both the process and the result — especially those dynamic, rotating product shots. Camera rolls feel like they’re right at the core of my cinematography style!

Cameras: ARRI Alexa Mini LF, Sony FX6
Lenses: Arri Signature Primes, Laowa Pro2be, Laowa PeriProbe, Laowa 12mm
Additional tools: Unreal Engine 5 for previsualisation