Virtual cinematography is a Cinematography 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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Virtual cinematography is a process of creating stunning imagery through the use of various elements from real-world cinematography. It combines previs, live-action shooting, and post-production techniques to build entire virtual worlds from the ground up and manipulate them with tangible input. A skilled cinematographer needs to have an eye for detail and know how to control camera angles and shots in order to bring out the best visual effects. Standard software used in this form of cinematography is Adobe After Effects, Autodesk Maya, Unreal Engine, and Unity 3D, among others.
A few movies that showcase top-notch virtual cinematography include James Cameron's Avatar, Tron: Legacy, and Warcraft. These films all contain impressive visuals crafted using state-of-the-art technology and creative camera work. There is also now an award dedicated solely to virtual cinematography: The Visual Effects Society (VES) Award for Outstanding Virtual Cinematography. This accolade celebrates the artistry and skill involved in crafting mesmerizing digital realms.