Inside Boris FX: Moritz Fortmann, SynthEyes Product Manager

Moritz Fortmann is our first-ever SynthEyes product manager, working alongside creator Dr. Russ Andersson. His role includes listening to YOU, our user community (find him on our forum, Discord, or feel free to email him), helping identify new 3D camera-solving tools to add, and pumping up SynthEyes!   

He’s based in sunny Valencia, Spain, and has over twenty years of experience in the industry as a colorist and product manager/specialist for Boris FX partners Foundry and Blackmagic.

Where are you from? How did you get your start in the industry?

I grew up in a small town in southwest Germany. My first professional experience was an internship with Quantel in England, which led to a full-time job in Los Angeles, where I was introduced to the world of high-end post-production.

What does your role as SynthEyes Product Manager entail?

I think about the whole experience our customers have with SynthEyes, from discovering it to becoming skilled users. Talking with customers is one of the most important things as it gives me valuable insights into their needs and the areas we can improve. I also keep tabs on the latest trends and advancements in matchmoving to make sure we're up to speed. Alongside this, I work on our product strategy, team up with engineers to help prioritize features and collaborate with marketing and other departments to ensure our product really resonates with the market.

What are a few of your favorite effect categories/tools within the Boris FX Suite?

Of course, I love SynthEyes! Coming from a color correction background, I particularly enjoy working with live-action footage. SynthEyes is this magical bridge that integrates digital elements with live-action footage. I am always fascinated by our clients' work, especially when stunning cinematography extends seamlessly across plates and digital elements. Besides SynthEyes, I'm also a big fan of Continuum and its wide range of film and lens emulation tools.

What’s an under-the-radar SynthEyes tool that users should know about?

Not sure if it’s under the radar, but the export feature from SynthEyes to After Effects is fantastic. Matchmoving can seem daunting at first, but the ease with which you can integrate SynthEyes into your workflow, create a solve, and then use it in After Effects to achieve stunning results is something I'd like everyone to see for themselves.

What's a keyboard shortcut you can't live without? A must-have piece of tech?

My shortcut life is highly dysfunctional because I switch between operating systems a lot. I recently bought a notebook — made out of paper — to spend a little less time with tech. I found myself under the illusion that spending time in front of a screen meant that I was productive. It’s refreshing to take some time away from tech and get some room to think and reflect.

Where do you find creative inspiration?

TV and film, old and new, museums and art in general, books, photography... I love people expressing themselves creatively in various ways. Sometimes, I find the process more interesting than the final result as it sparks new ideas on how to approach my own work. 

How do you unwind outside of work (hobbies, etc.)?

Making music, being outdoors, riding my bike, and spending time with the family. 

What’s your go-to snack/treat when you need a quick boost during the day?

Trail mix, apple and peanut butter, coffee. 

What's your favorite film and/or TV series?

I love watching stuff from around the world —  Scandinavian noir, Brazilian shows, Mexican and Korean movies — anything that allows me to dive into a different world and sparks my imagination. 

If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Ai Weiwei seems like an interesting guy to hang out with. I like how he bridges art and activism. 

What career and/or life advice would you give your younger self?

There are no rules, no one path, carve out your own way. 

Learn more about SynthEyes and download the Boris FX Hub for a free trial.