Special Effects vs. Visual Effects

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Some say, they are two sides of a same coin, whereas, some actually find a variation.

With the advent of Computer Generated Imagery techniques (CGI), a clear differentiation can be noticed. Post-production activity majorly depends on Visual effects for editing and integrating variation for camera captured footages, whereas visual illusions for in-camera grabs are aided by Special effects.

Over time, we have seen the use of fog machines, wind fans, on-set pyrotechnics (explosions and fire) and prosthetic make-ups; these techniques are on-set elements that are classified as Mechanical effects (SFX). It can be filmed in-camera as the elements are real and can interact with on-set actors.

Things that “aren’t real” and require the aid of mechanical and optical intervention are classified as Special effects (SFX). Optical effects (SFX) make use of Optical photomanipulation techniques, which assist moving footages. A common technique features the use of rear projections, multiple exposures and mirrors for elements that are placed together, but are not shot together. For example, an actor engaged in a battle against a fire breathing dragon; this is done using multiple exposure passes in front of a rear projection featuring a fire breathing dragon.

Moreover, the Visual effects (VFX) deliver techniques for manipulating and creating imagery outside a live action set.

Earlier, Rotoscoping for element isolation in compositing, addition of hand-painted backgrounds behind characters (matte painting) and optical printer (compositing) were either known as VFX or SFX. At present, these techniques can be acquired digitally, and are known as VFX.

Hand animators and matte painters have laid down foundations for CGI digital FX techniques. Though hand painting might be underestimated, end result remains the same, i.e. adding characters and background that missed a mention in real to in-camera footage.

Pixar and Dreamworks films feature the term VFX to describe techniques used for non-animated characters, or hair simulation and garment. Creating smoke, water, explosion, falling debris and all other phenomena using digital models that are positioned by computer simulation are known as VFX.

Professional VFX artists prefer work in-camera footages featuring character animations. Elements that were never in-camera with the characters can now be composed and created using VFX.

To simplify things further, we can explain special effects as an existence of a special element in the same in-camera world as that of a principal element. In an opposite scenario, it can be accepted as a visual effect.


Thank for www.wired.com for an example video amazing Reference vide link is mention below





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