Redefining Virtual Production Studios

Forge isn’t just a space, it’s a service where we shape ideas into artistry. Rooted in Chicago’s creative community, we pair bold technology with a human touch so every production feels seamless, significant, and built for impact.

A camera dolly sits in Studio A at Forge

A Different Kind of Virtual Production Studio

Where creativity meets clarity, and every detail is built around you.

Most virtual studios focus on the gear. At Forge, we focus on people. We built this space to make bold technology feel accessible, seamless, and empowering for every team that walks through our doors just outside of Chicago. From first-time users to seasoned filmmakers, you’ll find a collaborative partner who removes barriers, anticipates challenges, and makes sure your vision shines on screen.

Meet the team.

Our experienced team of award-winning creative and technical professionals are here to ensure you're able to create more—and worry less—during your next shoot at Forge Virtual Studios.

Whether you're a Virtual Production veteran or stepping into a studio for the first time, our team is ready to empower and elevate your experience at every stage. From concept development and previsualization to environment design and on-set support, we’ve got you covered.

It's our team, on your team.

Lillie English

Matt Gandler

Michael Lister

Angie Gaffney

Jason Knade

Connor Rowan

Drew English

Creative Vision Meets Seamless Execution

We exist to empower your story. Forge Virtual Studios is a collaborative space where innovative tech, and dedicated partnership come together to bring ambitious ideas to life.

Born from the storytelling expertise of Charter & Co, Forge extends that same commitment to creativity into the world of virtual production studios. Here, bold dreams come to life, backed by a team that adapts to the way you like to work, whether alongside Charter or with your own partners. The result is an empowering, collaborative experience designed to remove barriers and help you deliver with confidence.

Our Studio’s Testimonials

What They Say About Forge & Virtual Production:

From producers to production companies to agencies and in-house teams, creators trust Forge to deliver a seamless virtual production experience. Here’s how our partners describe working with us:

"Virtual production gives us control and consistency—creatively and financially. Streamlined logistics, fewer surprises, and stunning visuals. We're not just capturing scenes—we're designing them."

Steven Abraham – Head of Strategy, OX Creative

"Virtual production lets us bring creative visions to life that we couldn’t capture otherwise. Scenes that were once impossible to shoot are now achievable, all without leaving the studio."

Jason Knade – Creative Director, Charter & Co

"Virtual production helped us film 30 interviews in one day with distinct, dynamic backdrops—delivering a polished, on-time, and on-budget shoot."

Caitlin Mitchell – Senior Director of Marketing, Riverwood Capital

Virtual Studios Near Chicago, Without the City Limits.

We’re located in Hanover Park, giving creators access to one of the most versatile virtual production studios in the Midwest. Our location balances the reach of Chicago with the flexibility of the suburbs, making us the ideal choice for teams searching for a production studio near Chicago that combines world-class tech with a collaborative, down-to-earth approach. Whether you’re flying in for a large-scale shoot or booking studio space in Chicago for branded content, our studio location makes it seamless to bring bold ideas to life.

Ready to Dream Bolder?

Forge Virtual Studios was built to remove the barriers that hold creators back. Unlike big-city studios that feel impersonal or intimidating, Forge combines world-class technology with a Midwestern spirit of hospitality and collaboration. Here, you’ll find a partner who anticipates your needs, adapts to your workflow, and makes virtual production accessible from start to finish. The result is a creative playground where ideas scale, stories resonate, and every detail is handled with care, so you can focus on what matters: bringing your dreams to life.

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