Decimation is a Real-Time Engine term in filmmaking. In virtual production, the nuances of this term take on special meaning. Here, we break down the definition to give you a starting point.
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Decimation is the reduction of geometry and texture in order to optimize an asset's real-time performance, making it a critical part of creating successful assets for virtual production. For example, if you are creating a 3D model for use in a game or film project, decimation can be used to reduce unnecessary polygons and textures that will not contribute to the overall look and feel of the scene.
This process is one of the key differences between assets created for real-time versus post-production animation. An asset with decimation will have fewer polygons and textures but still appear just as detailed onscreen. In addition, by optimizing an asset’s real-time performance, decimation also helps speed up rendering time which is crucial when using software like Unity or Unreal Engine.
Using decimation correctly is essential in order to get the most out of your assets. A good rule of thumb is to start by reducing the detail level down until there is no noticeable difference in quality. This way, you can ensure that only the necessary detail remains while keeping everything else at an optimal level. Additionally, you should take into account how far away from the camera an object will be before deciding on its decimated form since details further away may not need to be included.
Overall, understanding and properly utilizing decimation is a valuable skill that anyone involved in virtual production should master. By reducing unnecessary geometry and texture, you can create highly optimized assets that look great without sacrificing performance or taking too long to render. As such, getting familiar with decimation can be a great way to improve both the look and efficiency of your projects.