What are the steps to make special effects in movies?

R&D

The first step of any visual effects assembly line is usually research and development. During this period, the staff will focus on software preferences and technologies, and decide what technical methods to use to make special effects.

preview

Visual preview is essentially a special effect shot that transforms storyboards and scripts into low-quality three-dimensional animation. Although this does not always accurately reflect the final result, the director can know what the lens looks like and better prepare the photography style.

make

Three-dimensional modeling

One of the most extensive and critical applications of CG is 3D modeling. Three-dimensional modeling takes place in three stages of the whole production process, and it becomes an iteration of different details for different purposes. For example, the preview only needs to show a low-detail version of the final product.

Mask painting

Although 3D models make up most of the environment, many backgrounds are still created with masks. Before the rise of digital special effects, masks were often used to create backgrounds. Today, masks are still as important as before.

Main photography and reference photography

In the actual shooting process, some members of the special effects team usually stay at the scene. Although they have little influence on the main photography, they will take many photos from the environment to individuals to seemingly unimportant props. These photos are used to create the texture of the 3D model and provide reference for the real properties of the scene, such as lighting, the size of the object, etc.

3. Post-production

Site preparation

Site preparation includes various processes, but it serves the same purpose: preparing materials for the elements to be inserted, including motion tracking, masking, keying and color correction.

restrain

It is binding that makes 3D models (such as people and vehicles) move. For example, a 3D model of an animal is static at first, but once it is manipulated, its limbs and body can be adjusted to make a given action.

animation

Animators add actions to the bound model and are responsible for the physics of most CG. Animators often test bindings and try? Crack? They are sent back to the bookbinding department for processing until they are perfect.

Effect/simulation

Explosion, water flow and smoke are all based on simulated effects. Polishing effects (from lens halo to false cigarette smoke) are added to the existing scene, and the final product is faintly visible at this time.

vein

Texturing is to add surface color and texture to 3D model to make it recognizable and close to completion. In this process, metal objects have luster and human beings have skin.

lamplight

One of the most important factors in realistic CGI is the realism of lighting. Excellent lighting will accurately imitate the settings, while poor lighting is often the chief culprit to produce false feelings.

multiple

The final stage is here! In visual effect analysis, you will often see synthesis, combining everything into a finished product.

What are the steps to make special effects in movies? Bian Xiao, the global ivy, will share it with you here. If you have a strong interest in the later stage of film and television, I hope this article can help you If you want to know more about camera skills, post-editing methods and materials, you can click on other articles on this site to learn.