We’ve been working with 3D supremo Ryan Wynott now for an intense year and a half, yet we’ve never met. So with a demanding schedule and tasks at hand requiring the closest collaboration, Ryan left his Canadian winter sanctuary for an arduous trip to the Sonoran desert, where we are presently moored. A first face to face meeting, which went well all things considered.

There are a variety of projects on which we are at work. So even when the Arizona Wildcats are at play in March Madness, we soldier on, albeit with a glance now and then to check the score. Sports fans note – Sweet Sixteen here we come.

One of the more technically interesting tasks is the lighting plan for the Wicked FPB 97, in particular because of the tools we are using. Files supplied by the bulb manufacturers define light characteristics and help our rendering software to create realistic light patterns. We can insert light fixtures, put them on different circuits, and vary them from dim to bright. The first rendering is with lights on set for working rather than ambiance.

Then we drop them to check out a softer scene.

And finally down to the mood level, where you might set things when taking a nap.

After a period of staring at computer screens we felt Ryan needed a dose of reality, so a hike was ordered. It is spring, and our Canadian compatriot decided to smell the flowers, Arizona style.

Then there is the obligatory pose with sahuaro cacti in the background. Note the joy on these faces at the request for an afternoon snapshot.

Finally, you will note that it is not possible for those of us toiling at things FPB to escape our fate.