VFX Compositing Toolbox: Essential Techniques For Visual Storytelling
The goal of using special effects is to make a video look more attractive while being realistic at the same time. In that matter, the VFX compositing is essential since that is the only way to implement various elements and keep them in balance with the base.
The effect of compositing is not a simple process. There are many processes and tools that you can use to add more details. However, it requires advanced knowledge, experience, and a proper selection of tools. In this article, we will introduce you to the essential techniques to use for visual storytelling.
Filming With a Plan
The process of editing should start even before you start shooting different scenes. This approach will make it easier for you to implement different elements. For example, choosing the right angle or adding artificial lights can make a huge difference.
For example, if you want to create a scene where you will add a CGI character, you must pay attention to shades and other details that will make it easier to make the digital element blend into the picture in the right way.
The same is true for special effects like smoke, fire, and explosions. Simply adding a digital fire into the scene will probably appear fake. However, if you manage to add other elements like shades, smoke, wind, and more, it will appear like you used a real fire during filming.
Green Screen
The use of a green screen is essential because it allows you to change backgrounds or add various elements. For example, an actor can appear in different locations while staying in the same place during the filming process. Also, actors could wear green suits so you can change their outfits or add some special features to them.
The use of a green screen is the key for creating realistic stunts where someone can replace the actor, or hold it during more demanding scenes. In combination with the right tools, the compositing process will provide greater flexibility.
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CGI
The best feature is that you can digitally create all kinds of effects and other elements. That is making the production process much easier. However, the proper composition of digital elements is complex. You will have to pay attention to various details to fit them properly.
As we already mentioned, having a clear plan before the filming is crucial. You will have to pay attention to shades, lights, and other details in scenes where you want to implement CGI. Even if it is something simple like rain, it still requires additional details like splash of water, sound, effects of rain on various objects, and more.
Lights and Shades
There are many techniques related to this category. For example, adding a moving digital element will require a certain level of blurring, but also a proper selection of saturation, shading, and some other effects.
The same is true for many other details. The goal is to create an environment where the added element blends into the scene, and where the viewer can’t say that it is added with digital tools. You will be able to achieve that only by using a combination of tools, setting the right focus, changing the composition of the lenses, and more.
The perspective can also play a huge role. For instance, there might be an angle where you can easily fit CGI or any other VFX, but there are also potential mistakes where it simply won’t appear natural. The editing can be a long and complicated process that can fit all these elements in the right way, but proper preparation can make it easier.
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User the Right Tools
There are many options available today. However, some of them are quite challenging for those without proper skills and experience. Also, there is a huge difference when it comes to capabilities. For example, some of them are only for the design and editing of pictures, while there are more complex options where you can create artificial environments and alter the scenes completely.
The VFX is going through a huge breakthrough in recent years with modern tools and AI technology, and the main advantage is that the capabilities are getting higher. Also, the process is becoming easier. When it comes to the most popular tools, we have to mention Fusion, Photoshop, After Effects, Blender, Houdini, and Nuke.
Fusion is a basic editing option where you can create effects by using nodes. That makes it a simple solution, but it cannot match some more advanced software like Nuke or Houdini. The interesting fact is that Houdini is used by some of the most popular productions in the world, like Pixar and Disney.
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It Requires a Team of Professionals
If you are making a professional movie, keep in mind that editing and adding special effects will represent a major part of the process. Therefore, make sure that you have experts in this area as part of your team.
On the other side, if you are working on a small project, you could start alone, but only if you have the proper skills. Also, you have always hired additional assistance that will help you with some details. On the other side, if you are a beginner, make sure to pay attention to all details, but also try to play around with various possibilities available by advanced tools.
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Final Thoughts
Creating visual storytelling by using special effects is a complicated process where you must focus on different factors. The editing will be easier if you have a clear idea about what you want to achieve. Also, the key is to create a balance between real objects and digital elements.
In the end, advanced software is providing many benefits to the movie industry, and that is not related only to the sci-fi genre. Creating all kinds of scenes is now easier for actors as well since they can stay in one place, and even skip the need for having stunt doubles. Therefore, the filming process can be faster and more affordable.