As Apple expands its library of immersive video content for Apple Vision Pro users, new insights into the creation process are emerging. During a recent episode of the Voices of VR podcast, host Kent Bye spoke with Ant Williams, a freediving athlete who appears in the “Ice Dive” episode of the immersive video series, “The Adventure Series.”
In the discussion, Williams recounted the experience of filming the episode, which was a joint effort between Apple Studios and Atlantic Productions:
I was approached by Atlantic Productions, aiming to create something truly exceptional for the Vision Pro as part of their adventure series. However, the details were initially kept under wraps.
They essentially told me, ‘We can’t disclose for whom or what this is, but we want to shoot something beneath the ice. Are you interested?’ My first thought was, ‘Not really. I’ve got my record and I’m retired.’ I suggested they speak to freedivers in Nordic countries who specialize in ice diving. I assumed I wouldn’t be chosen, but for some reason, they found my story appealing.
Williams also recounted his reaction upon learning the footage would be captured in Apple’s immersive format:
I clearly remember the moment Charlotte Mikkelberg, the series director, informed me, ‘This is for Apple, and it’s in an immersive format.’ I was like, ‘Wait, what? That sounds amazing!’
She explained that viewers wouldn’t just be watching a film but would be completely immersed, engaging multiple senses. They would feel as if they’re sitting alongside Johnny, guiding them during a training swim, or standing next to me as I prepare my last breath for the dive. It would be so immersive that it would evoke significant emotional responses from the audience.
I thought she might be exaggerating, but now that I’ve seen it myself, it truly is the most impactful experience I’ve ever had in VR.
You can catch the full podcast episode on the Voices of VR website.
