Monday 7 March 2016

Next Gen My VFX Shots Pipeline

Modelling: The basic idea is creating objects in a 3d environment with the right programs, the only main objects that are needed were the Tetris blocks, not a lot of modelling had to be done for the sequence. Although the blocks were fairly bland.

Pre-vis: This is the basic process of using basic 3d models to show a simple form of the sequence that shows how the shot should go without put major effort into the visual assets. We made a few pre vis shots with . Considering the shots that were taken were relatively stale in terms of actual actions in the scene. We could have used pre-vis for having the shots interact more with the CG.

High Dynamic Range Environment Photos: This is the process of taking multiple photos of the same environment for the ideal tint and lighting effects. Since the shots were done in a relatively bright environment and the screen in the shot was very bright; darkening the shots could make the screen appear brighter so that it could seem that it is very late in the day.

Reference Photos: This is the process of taking multiple photos during the shots to have an idea for the models, environments and lighting reference for the animators later in the pipeline. Since we took as few second shots at a few different angles and had no extra props in the shot (besides the computer and mouse) it will be a relatively simple process.
LIDAR/Cyberscan: It is a way to get highly detailed models of buildings or environments using laser-based scanners. Since we did not have access to that kind of help. We had to make our own assets from scratch. If we had this I would use this to scan the inside of a pc to have a accurate representation of the wires and boards that go into it, to add to the surrounding environment.

Rigging:Having a rig posted over 3d models to make them feasible in digital animation (movement). Since the models I was originally going to put into the shot were not that complicated they do not badly need to be rigged plus the models are not required to twist and turn, only fall.

Tracking and Match-Moving: This means that a image on set is filmed, once the shot is finished the digital copy of the image can be placed over whatever was used in the shot. This process is because CG objects seem to have more 'Life' in the movie. Since the objects are Tetris blocks this process can be easily applied if the footage was slowed down and other interferences removed from the shot. However it would not add anything to the shot, since the environment (of a desk) has no soft surfaces or uses any heavy hitting objects affecting anything on the desk.

Plate Preparation: Since most movies use film, it can cause scratches and chemical reactions and it will need to be cleaned for the movie release. However since the cameras we used were digital, we did not have to deal with this kind of issue.

Film Scans: Once the shots are finished, the shots are then scanned to preserve the original negative; it is usually done at around 2k if the filmed used super 35mm. Once again, since the shots were done on a digital camera, their was no need to scan the film ourselves.

Rotoscoping: When VFX is used in a shot with things such as green screen to add backgrounds or add extra visual components. Since we don't have any access to this kind of VFX equipment we are not doing anything around rotoscoping.

Tests: Testing the look, style and/or piece of technology that might be worth putting in the final film. Test shots for this have been using different shots for the final result. Testing concepts such as tracking in Maya, and a light-saber effect in a active shot. If they make it in the final product is debatable.

Animation: This is the process of using models and rigging elements that move on the screen. The main animation in the shot is the Tetris blocks falling, moving, and turning in the shot and the effect of the blocks shattering once a line is made (like in the game). I also would want a gapping hole in the air to show were the blocks are coming from instead of just appearing.

Grading and Technical Grading: This is when the scene in the shot has alterations done in post-production. It is done so that there are no jumps in contrast, and brightness in the final cut. The main integration into my VFX shots that I could do, is alter the brightness of the shot to make the blocks more or less artificial for the shattering effect.

Element Shoots: When an extra effect of natural particles is put into a shot for more visual appeal. These effects are usually done before posting-production begins and stored so the VFX team can use it fast. Since the main application of this in our project would be the shattering effect, this can be used, even though it can be dangerous, plus shattering is an effect we can add in after effects.

Look Development: This is when the texturing and lighting is altered for the final shots. It is to make the CG objects appear more integrated with the rest of the shot. The only main use this can be used for is the blocks when in front of the shot of the desk, computer and person, to appear in the shot.

Research and Development: This is when all of the tools in the VFX process are set up before the shots are done, so that the animators have a easier time for finishing each VFX shot. The main tool we used is the program 'Autodesk Maya', so most of the tools in the program were set up. We also had some time to get used to the program and its tools.

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