Virtual production is a filmmaking technique that combines physical and virtual elements to create movies and other media. It uses real-time 3D engines to create photorealistic sets, which are then displayed on large LED walls behind physical sets using the real-time rendering capabilities of the game engines. The cameras are synced with the game engines for enhanced realism and depth of perspective. Virtual production eliminates the need for cast and crew to travel to a physical location, and it enables people to work remotely as not everyone needs to be on set during shots.
Virtual production has become increasingly popular in recent years, and it offers several advantages over traditional filmmaking techniques. These include time and cost savings, enhanced visibility, and the ability to develop a creative vision earlier in the production process. Virtual production can be used for both live-action and animated projects, and it allows filmmakers the freedom to create sweeping vistas, vast landscapes, and convincing creatures from the realm of imagination.
To create a virtual production, a game engine like the Unreal Engine 5 is needed, along with assets for the digital world, which can be obtained from the Unreal Engine marketplace. Before filming starts, key components such as the camera, camera tracker, LED wall, and game engine must be in place. During filming, the cameras capture the physical actors and sets, while the game engine generates the virtual elements in real-time.
In summary, virtual production is a technique that combines physical and virtual elements to create movies and other media. It offers several advantages over traditional filmmaking techniques, including time and cost savings, enhanced visibility, and the ability to develop a creative vision earlier in the production process.
