Often, the only thing a common person says about the animation effects in a movie is ‘the 3d animation was good or ‘the visual graphics were awesome.’ But there are certain words and different types of effects. The first one is VFX (Visual Effects) and the second one is CGI (Computer-generated imagery). Most people confuse the two as they use them interchangeably or are unaware of CGI. They know only VFX. But here, let’s understand what they are and how both are different.
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VFX Meaning
The meaning of VFX is visual FX or effects. It is only those special effects created using the software to show unreal things realistically. For example, the actor looks short and fat. VFX can show the actor as muscular. The VFX enters the film or a series only when capturing the live moment becomes impractical, uneconomical, dangerous, or impossible. The visual FX enhances the overall experience of the users watching the show.
VFX animation movies draw more attention from the public rather than regular movies. Harry Potter, a successful movie series, has a lot of 3d animation in the film that also involves VFX animation. The special effects in movies are shown as lively and realistic. People can’t fly on brooms in the real world. But with Visual Effects, the impractical affair becomes possible. That is the power of the VFX.
CGI or the Computer-generated Imagery
The CGI is part and parcel of Visual FX. VFX is like a massive ocean in which CGI occupies a more significant space. This technology can be used anywhere from print media to advanced virtual reality or augmented reality. The name says it all – Images generated using a computer. Video games, simulators, short films, movies, television series, etc.
Although mostly when people talk about these digitally created images, they confine themselves to films and incorrect television series. The scope of the computer-generated imagery is too broad and incorporated into 3d animation or 3d CGI animation. This CGI technology has wholly revolutionized the world television and film industry.
The Major difference between VFX and CGI
VFX and CGI are two types of animations and often go hand in hand in many aspects. The primary and essential difference between CGI and VFX is that VFX is primarily used to create images digitally. On the other hand, CGI uses pre-programmed animation that the designers can apply to live-action footage. This advanced CGI technology has helped us discover new aspects of filmmaking.
For VFX, a specific software has to be used, and CGI does not require any specific advanced software and can be built on any digital platform. CGI is created using computers and adding graphics, lighting, and other effects to a film. On the contrary, VFX tries to make it look more authentic.
With VFX, new elements are brushed upon the existing images; therefore, physically, it is impossible to create. But with CGI, the designers can show movement, and each movement has variations. This CGI creates an illusion of movement.
VFX designers majorly concentrate on effects work on films and other media projects, while CGI artists usually work on video games, tv, and advertising applications. Some significant examples known worldwide of VFX are Jurassic Park, The Matrix, and, Game of Thrones. Examples of CGI can be Avatar (2009) and Toy Story (1995).
Today, technological advances enable us to create realistic three-dimensional models that can be imported onto our computers and edited as we wish. This revolution in computer graphics allows us to create stunning visual features such as facial expressions, realistic body language, and dazzling special effects. CGI is a valuable tool in the filmmaking process and works well with the VFX department.
Evergrowing Technology – Entertaining audience
In par with other industries, the entertainment industry has drastically adapted itself with time by using the latest technologies. This adoption of modern technology has made films more fascinating and watchable for the audience.
This momentous evolution of the film industry has drawn many people’s attention, and slowly it’s becoming one of the fastest-growing industries. Grab the chance to learn more about VFX and CGI technology to enhance your skills in the world of animation.
Future of VFX and CGI
The future of visual effects and CGI is bright, and this trend of animations will only continue to grow over the coming decades. VFX and CGI go hand in hand. Both co-exist and make the film’s audience ‘awe & wow.’ With new technology, better tools, and a constantly evolving creative process, professional VFX artists are more important than ever.
