VFX is indispensable in today’s Hollywood sci-fi blockbusters. VFX techniques help create things that cannot be done in the real world, overwhelming viewers and increasing the appeal of the film.
VFX Artist is an extremely potential profession in Vietnam today. If you want to pursue this job, you need to know the 5 important things below.
What are VFX techniques in movies?
Cinematography is the process of using special technologies and methods to create visual effects to create scenes that are not realistically possible or to improve the presentation of scenes. there. Filmmaking techniques can include using computers to create images and special effects, editing figures, creating sound effects, creating on-screen magic, and many other technologies to create visual effects. Bringing great experiences to audiences.
What types of VFX cinematography are included?
CGI techniques simulate images by computer
CGI (Computer-Generated Imagery) is a method of using computers to create images and special effects in the film, television and other related industries. CGI is often used to create scenes that cannot be performed in reality.
The applications of CGI effects are diverse, from creating fictional creatures and monsters, exotic landscapes, virtual planets, post effects, to creating dangerous action scenes without dangerous for actors. CGI has become a powerful tool in creating stunning and unique visual experiences in the film industry.
Green screen technique
Using a green screen, also known as compositing or chroma keying, is a technique in cinematography to stitch together multiple images or videos. This process usually begins by capturing the footage in front of a green screen (or other screen with solid color) during filming.When filming with a green screen, the actors or main subjects will be placed in front of the green screen. In post-production, the blue color will be replaced by another image or video during post-production.After filming is completed, the compositing process begins. VFX techniques are used to “remove” the blue from the shot, creating a “hole” in the image that allows new content to be inserted. Then, images and footage will be inserted into that empty hole.Using a green screen allows to create scenes and effects that are not possible in real space. It is widely used in action films, science fiction, and television productions to create shots with virtual landscapes, special effects, or to change the environment around actors.
With just a plain blue background, VFX Artists can create millions of different impressive scenes.
Motion capture techniques
Motion capture, also known as mocap, is a method of capturing the movements of people or other objects and converting them into digital data. The process usually begins with attaching sensors or markers on the body or object whose movement is to be captured.
These sensors are often attached directly to important points on the body, such as the skeleton, arms, legs or face. These sensors record parameters such as the position, direction and speed of movement of markers in 3D space.
When the actor or model actor makes movements, the sensors record data about that movement. These data are then processed and converted into a 3D model or a similar 3D character.
Mocap allows accurate reproduction of the movements of people or other objects in a digital environment. This technology is widely used in the film industry, video games, television, advertising and many other fields.
Capmo technique allows creating fictional characters with facial movements like real people.
VFX – potential industry in Vietnam market
In Mordor Intelligence statistics published in 2021, the Asia-Pacific region leads the VFX market in terms of growth rate. The current cinematographic effects market is growing strongly and with potential. With the popularity of movies, television, video games and digital media platforms, the demand for cinematography is increasing.
If you follow Hollywood blockbusters, you can see many names of Vietnamese people or studios in Vietnam appear in the movie credits. Despite progress and potential, the cinematography industry market in Vietnam still faces the challenge of lack of human resources. Many young people are choosing to study this field to gain a foothold with high salaries in a labor-hungry market.
VFX industry jobs and salaries
VFX Artist’s work
The job of a VFX artist in the film industry includes the following tasks:
- Requirements analysis: VFX artists participate in the process of analyzing the VFX requirements of the project. They work with the director and production team to understand and meet the specific visual effects requirements of the film.
- Creating 3D models and texturing: VFX artists create 3D models of objects, characters, or environments in a film. They also perform texturing, which is creating surfaces and materials for 3D models to give them a realistic shape and appearance.
- Lighting and rendering: VFX artists are responsible for lighting scenes in the film and rendering completed images from 3D models and VFX data. They use 3D graphics tools and software to adjust lighting, color, and other elements to create the desired visual effect.
To become a VFX Artist, the artist needs to be properly trained and know many skills.
- Compositing: VFX artists use compositing techniques to combine image parts from different sources into a complete image. They layer images, adjust color, lighting, and effects to create the final image.
- Special Effects: VFX artists create special effects, such as rockets, explosions, fires, transformations, or disappearances. They use graphics tools and software to create impressive and realistic effects to add appeal and value to cinematic productions.
The work of a visual effects artist requires a solid knowledge of effects technology and software, creativity, and artistic skills. They often work in a team, along with other professionals such as directors, producers, visual effects engineers, and other artists, to ensure that the cinematography in the film is of quality and effective . as expected.
Average VFX Artist Salary
The average VFX Artist salary depends on many factors, including their country, experience, skills, project size, and the company they work for. Here is an overview of the average VFX Artist salary in several countries:
- US: The average VFX Artist salary in the US can range from approximately $50,000 to $100,000 per year. However, VFX artists with experience and working on large projects can earn higher salaries.
- UK: In the UK, the average salary of a VFX Artist is usually from around 25,000 GBP to 50,000 GBP per year. As in the United States, artists who are experienced and work on important projects can expect higher incomes.
- Canada: The average VFX Artist salary in Canada can range from approximately 45,000 CAD to 80,000 CAD per year. In cities like Vancouver or Montreal, where there is a lot of activity in the film industry, wages can be higher.
- Vietnam: In the film effects industry in Vietnam, the average salary of a VFX Artist can range from about 10,000,000 VND to 30,000,000 VND per month. However, the specific salary depends on many factors such as experience, infrastructure, and project scale.
Note that these are average salaries and may vary depending on specific factors. Experienced and successful professionals in this field can expect higher incomes.
Where to start to pursue the VFX industry?
- Learning about cinematography: You need to master the knowledge of cinematography, technology and special effects software. Maybe you want to take a course specializing in cinematography or self-study through online materials, books, videos and online courses.
- Learn about effects software: There are many software used in the effects industry such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe After Effects, Nuke, and Houdini. Learn and familiarize yourself with these tools to master the necessary skills.
- Practice and build your portfolio: Create small visual effects projects to practice your skills and build your personal portfolio. This is your way to showcase your abilities to potential employers or clients.
- Watch and learn about special effects projects: Cinema and special effects works are important sources of inspiration and learning. Watch movies, music videos, commercials, and games with good cinematography to understand how the effects are created.
FPT Arena Multimedia students during the filmmaking semester.
- Participate in communities and industry events : Join the visual effects community, participate in online forums, discussion groups, and industry events to connect and learn from others in the industry.
- Find a job or internship : Start by looking for a job or internship opportunity in the film effects field. This will help you gain practical experience and build a network of industry contacts.
- Continuous learning and development: The cinematography industry is constantly changing and updating with new technology. Continue to study, update your knowledge and follow new trends to grow in the industry.
