Reality Check Systems Co-founder Steven Heimbold boasts a wide-ranging knowledge of real-time graphics technology for broadcast, from the overarching concepts of design and production to the specifics of data integration and control. He got his start in the media industry working on animated titles for film trailers with his cousin Andrew Heimbold. The Heimbolds expanded their offerings to include photoreal 3D VFX, and went to work for Fox in 1997 on an NFL-related project that earned a Sports Emmy for graphic design. More recently, the company’s clients include NBC, CBS Sports, NFL Network, NHL Network, MLB Network, Sky Deutschland, Univision, and more. realitychecksystems.com
What will be the biggest challenge of 2017 for the media industry? 2017 will be a year of transition for the media industry as it increasingly embraces IP, 4K/UHD, AR/VR and HDR.
What do you like to do when you’re not working? I restore vintage cars and spend entirely too much time following the San Francisco Giants!
What movie, TV show, book, music, or other media would you most recommend to your colleagues? My colleagues have heard me say more than once that The Shawshank Redemption is as close to a perfect movie as I’ve ever seen.
What’s your best advice for others in this business? Listen to your customers and innovate. We’ve survived and ultimately thrived at RCS by not only working incredibly hard but by continually innovating and taking care of our customers — year after year.
