The aim of this module is to introduce a wide range of visual effects techniques and build an understanding of their integration in the production process. You will be introduced to a wide range of techniques including still photography for the creation of visual effects elements, matte painting and photogrammetry, Video camera techniques for greenscreen and match-moving, Unreal for pre-vis and virtual production fundamentals. A range of digital tools will be introduced alongside an introduction to film and visual effect grammar and structures. A range of production styles will be covered including fundamentals of green screen spaces and an introduction to virtual production and real time in camera VFX. The emphasis of the work will be around understanding the techniques and building the skills to identify the best solutions for practical problems.

1. Practical Portfolio 70% assessing learning outcomes 1, 2 and 4. The practical portfolio is a visual demonstration of a range of visual effects techniques it should be presented as a structured video showing BTS process captures, previs and final tests and renders. It should include a voiceover explaining the work.

2. Production Paperwork 30% assessing learning outcome 3. The production paperwork is a collection of required practical and legal documents used during the production process, it should be formatted as a production pack with structured contents and themes to organise the work. It should demonstrate professional use of subject specific language.

The learning strategies for this module mix traditional teaching and learning techniques alongside a process of authentic assessment where students will apply professional techniques to the creation of their work. Delivery will include mixed mode sessions that integrate lecture, workshop and craft sessions. There will be guided practical sessions and opportunities for peer and expert discussion and feedback.

1. On completion of this module, you will be able to demonstrate a clear process of development around a range of visual effects and virtual production techniques.
Learning

2. On completion of this module, you will be able to design and create a range of practical solutions to visual effects and virtual production scenarios.
Problem Solving

3. On completion of this module, you will be able to communicate ideas, concepts and processes relating to visual effects and virtual production with accurate and professional language.
Communication

4. On completion of this module, you will be able to select and employ a range of visual effects techniques and production methods
. Application

Blackboard VLE
Media stores filmmaking resource
Lynda.com
Greenscreen space
Virtual Production Studio
Visual Effects Software:
Maya Houdini
PFTrack
Reality Capture
Nuke
Adobe Suite
PTGui
Unreal

Dinur, E. (2017) The Filmmaker’s Guide to Visual Effects: The Art and Techniques of VFX for Directors, Producers, Editors, and Cinematographers. 1st edn. Milton: Routledge
Luhmann, T., Robson, S., Kyle, S. & Boehm, J., 2014. Close-Range Photogrammetry and 3d Imaging. 2nd ed. Berlin: De Gruyter.
Zwerman , S. & Finance, C., 2015. The Visual Effects Producer: Understanding the Art and Business of VFX. Taylor and Francis.. 1st ed. New York: Routledge.

Visual Effects is a wide ranging and dynamic set of techniques that takes in every step of the production process form pre-production through to final image. In this module you will work on pre- visualisation, digital imaging, photogrammetry and camera technology to create a high quality piece of visual effects work.