Module Descriptors
INTRODUCTION TO VFX: VISUAL EFFECTS AND CONCEPT DESIGN
FVFX40094
Key Facts
Faculty of Arts and Creative Technologies
Level 4
30 credits
Contact
Leader: Huw Thomas
Hours of Study
Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities: 48
Independent Study Hours: 252
Total Learning Hours: 300
Assessment
  • CWK - A&D weighted at 100%
Module Details
Module Resources
Computer workshops, with appropriate software (e.g. Adobe's Photoshop, Autodesk's Maya)
Data projection facilities
Access to Blackboard VLE system
Appropriate staff resources to include hardware and software (Adobe Photoshop and Techsmith?s Camtasia)
Module Learning Strategies
Accumulate reference imagery / inspirational materials
Undertake a combination of studio and workshop based activities (drawing, sketch modeling, computer modeling) in the development and refinement of an appropriate solution / proposal (as defined within the brief).
Work independently in the computer workshops, the studios, and other areas of the University
Access and utilise instructor led tutorial movies distributed via VLE system (e.g. BlackBoard / Internet)
Access further sources of reading and development e.g. the Internet and the Thompson library

Module Indicative Content
This module will introduce you to the techniques and theory employed in the creation of a 'concept designs' allowing you to originate 'solutions' to a specific, written and / or verbal brief.
You will use a combination of traditional and contemporary techniques to present your ideas to both staff and peers.
You will engage in the origination of a large scale environment or set, utilizing the current Arts, Media and Design campus as an immediate, accessible reference point.
You will reflect upon the effectiveness of technology (e.g. Maya) has had in the enhancement and refinement of these ideas.
You will reflect on your learning and personal skills development over the course of the module.
You will be expected to integrate and practice key skills that have been introduced to you via other modules, in particular 3D computer modelling, redering and lighting skills.
Module Additional Assessment Details
One assignment to be presented in the form of a practical 'design' project, based upon a written brief and verbal briefing worth 100%
[ALL Learning Outcomes apply]

All presentations are to be accompanied by reports / documentation / briefs, presentation media (to include 2D and 3D), flatwork, sketchbooks etc. Formal and informal communication / presentations to staff, peers and companies will also be considered when formulating a final grade.

Students may be asked to formally 'assess' their peers contributions to team activities in order to determine the effectiveness of team working / 'working with others'.

ALL design work to be supported via sketchbooks, notebooks, with all digital content to be compiled on a CD-ROM/DVD.

Module Texts
Evening, Martin. Adobe Photoshop CS2 for Photographers. Focal Press. 2005 ISBN 0240519841
Cotta Vaz, Mark. Industrial Light and Magic: into the digital realm. Del Rey / Ballantine. 1996 ISBN 0345381521
Schwartz, Lopsie. Adobe Photoshop for VFX Artists. 2005. Thomson Course Technology. ISBN: 1592004873
Half-Life 2 : Raising the Bar, Prima Games 2004, ISBN 0-7615-4364-3
HellBoy The Art of the Movie. 2004. Titan Books. ISBN 1-84023-881-X
Japanese Games Graphics by Works Corporation, 2004. Harper Design International. ISBN 0-06-056772-4