Visual Effects (or VFX) is defined as the different forms of imagery creation or modification after completing the live-action shoot. We are able to say that the work of visual effects is a part of post production stage i.e. after the actual end of shooting and /or recording. Visual effects are usually created or employed in place of something that is not possible to put together in a motion picture or any other moving media.
Visual effects or VFX software package permits its users either to form or manipulate pictures to include effects sequences using computer. Rotoscoping, painting, camera tracking, 3D animation and composing are some of the processes involve within the creation of a visual effect. VFX will be broadly classified as Models, Matte Painting, and skills, Live-action effects and Digital animation.
Software used for VFX
Following are the software’s that are being widely used for making visual effects for films, games, advertising and graphic designing.
- Autodesk Maya – mainly used for 3D modeling, Animation, Dynamic and Simulation.
- Adobe After Effects – mainly used for Motion graphics and compositing.
- The Foundry Nuke – used for composting.
- Synth Eyes – mainly used for camera/object tracking and match moving.
- Adobe Photoshop – wide used for image editing or manipulation.
Currently in VFX industry, Autodesk Inc. is the market leader giving many visual effects software package for digital entertainment creation. Some of the VFX software utilized by professionals is:
- Autodesk Smoke
- Autodesk Flare
- Autodesk Softimage
- Autodesk 3ds max
- Autodesk Mudbox
- Autodesk Motion Builder
- Autodesk FBX
Recent Technology Development in VFX industry
Traditional Techniques
- Practical Effects
- Optical Printing
- Prosthetic Makeup Effects
- Optical Effects
Modern Techniques
- Motion Control Photography
- Morphing
- In-camera Effects
- Chroma Keying
- Miniature Effects
- Stop Motion
- Rotoscoping
- Matte Painting
Chroma Keying
It’s a VFX technique used for compositing two or more frames or pictures together in which color image is removed by another image behind it.
Miniature Effects
The miniature effect technology of VFX is employed to create special effects for motion pictures and TV programs using scale models. In order to form gravitative and other effects looks presumptive to the consumers and/or audience, scale models are usually integrated with high speed photography or matte shots.
Rotoscoping
Rotoscoping is a visual effects technique through that professionals trace over live action film movements, frame by frame, to be used in animated films.
Morphing
This VFX technique permits the users to form computer graphics in motion pictures and animations that morphs or change one image into another through a seamless transition.
Stop Motion
Also remarked as stop action is an animation technique used to build physically manipulated object seem to move on its own.
Matte Painting
This VFX technology permits the filmmakers and technical artist to form a painted illustration of a landscape, set or distant location that doesn’t exist actually or would otherwise be too pricey to undertake or build. Such matte-painted images are combined with live-action motion pictures to create a real life atmosphere.
Benefits of using VFX Technology
Earlier it had been troublesome for the producers and filmmakers to initiate action sequences that are too expensive or dangerous to undertake. However with the introduction and speedy advancement of recent technologies within the VFX industry, makes it attainable for filmmakers, writers and technical administrators to visualize, express and portray their stories in a very efficient and cost effective manner.
VFX technologies extend varied benefits to its users like the creation of virtual shots, creation and modification of backgrounds, adding characters or actors and/or creating changes in them, adding facial effects, speedy transitional modification or fixing minute issues on the sets. Visual effects personnel in coordination with cinematographer and production artists will produce the sets that are not possible to create actually.
It facilitates sleek removal of rigs and wire, color correction and permits the utilization green and blue screen and 3D components to interact with live actions. With the assistance of VFX technologies ones dreams will be converted into reality.
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