Japanese video director Mani Kato takes us behind the scenes, exploring how he experimented with the SmokeNINJA PRO fog machine to elevate his storytelling through visuals. He takes us on set on two Japanese music videos, majiko's Q and Village Man Store's PINK music video. The incorporation of dynamic smoke effects enriches the imagery and offers filmmakers enhanced creative flexibility during shoots. By delving into Kato’s experiences and methods with the SmokeNINJA PRO, we can better understand the practical uses and advantages of fog machines in diverse filming contexts.
Based in Shibuya, Tokyo, Kato creates music videos and other visual content for a range of artists, both indie and mainstream, including Kyuso Nekokami, Da-iCE, Superfly, NMB48, Cody Lee, Neguse, Hachijuhachi Kacho Junrei, Bikkeburankā, and many more. Since 2015, he has been producing over 50 music videos each year and has won the Space Shower TV Music Video Award for Best Video two years in a row.
Practical Testing the Fog Machine on Set: majiko's Q Music Video
In a slightly smaller space, Mani Kato noted that the fog machine's output could easily become very dense. However, he appreciated how it added a hazy feeling while still allowing the subject to be seen clearly. Previously, he had used equipment that required passing the emitted smoke through a circulator or similar device to diffuse it while maintaining a certain particle quality. He found that adjusting the airflow could be surprisingly difficult. Additionally, when shooting outdoors, it was necessary to provide separate power sources for both the fog machine and the fan.
Kato discovered the SmokeNINJA PRO, which runs on a built-in battery, eliminating the need for a power supply. He found this incredibly convenient. It can also be powered via USB-C, allowing him to connect it to a mobile battery, making it suitable for small-scale outdoor shoots. The fan positioned at the tip means that wind direction can be largely ignored when used close to the camera, a feature he found particularly useful.
Village Man Store's PINK 20th Anniversary Music Video
Japanese director Mani Kato recently utilized the SmokeNINJA PRO for the music video of Village Man Store's song PINK. In the scenes filmed at the live music venue and rehearsal studio, the presence of smoke notably enhanced the image quality by adding depth. Kato filmed some scenes before and after the loan period, providing a clear comparison between shots with and without the SmokeNINJA PRO.
In the scenes that featured the SmokeNINJA PRO, the right amount of smoke positioned close to the camera added significant movement to the visuals. Kato managed the device with his right hand while using his left to operate the tripod and zoom, all while shooting solo. Although it felt hectic, he believes this setup allows for better control over the timing of smoke production. Kato also noted that it was convenient to attach the fog machine next to the gimbal with the help of the remote.
"Its outstanding mobility and speed, requiring no power source or cables, allows you to add an extra layer of visual direction to your footage. It is highly specialised for creating ‘fantastical smoke effects’. The smoke volume is never so excessive that it obscures the subject, nor is the density too thin; it provides a solid smoke presence, enabling precisely the smoke effects you desire."
Mani Kato's experiences with the SmokeNINJA PRO fog machine highlight the transformative potential of fog machines in enhancing visual narratives. The ability to create rich, atmospheric scenes without the hassle of external power sources offers a significant advantage for filmmakers, especially in dynamic and unpredictable settings. By skillfully integrating the fog machine into his shooting process, Kato demonstrated the value of maintaining control over smoke effects, which can add an immersive layer to any project. As technology continues to evolve, tools like the fog machine will undoubtedly play an integral role in shaping the future of visual storytelling, enabling directors to push the boundaries of creativity in music videos and other cinematic endeavors.
