World capture in Virtual Production

World capture is a Production Design/Art Direction 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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Basic Definition:

What is World capture in virtual production?

World capture, also referred to as reality capture or scene digitization, is a process that enables the translation of real-world spaces into digital assets. It has become an invaluable tool in virtual production, giving filmmakers the ability to create photorealistic 3D environments without the need for costly on-location shoots. By utilizing LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), photography, video and other references, world capturing can be used to build detailed models which can then be used in any number of applications - from visual effects to full feature films. 

The importance of world capture lies in its ability to provide filmmakers with accurate data about their environment, allowing them to plan shots precisely and accurately. It can also save time and money by eliminating the need for costly set builds or expensive on-location shooting. Furthermore, world capture allows directors to explore new angles and camera movements that would otherwise not have been possible. The data gathered through world capture also makes it easier for visual effects artists to create photorealistic visuals and animations. 

When doing world capture, it’s important to consider what type of data is needed for each particular project. Depending on the scope and complexity of the production, different types of data may be required such as point clouds, texture maps or even videos. Care should also be taken to ensure accuracy when collecting the data, as inaccuracies in the captured environment could lead to issues further down the line. 

A great example of world capture in action is the film Gravity, directed by Alfonso Cuarón. For this movie, scientists at Framestore CFC developed a technology known as "Gravity Cam" which enabled them to scan their sets using laser scanners. This allowed them to accurately recreate microgravity scenes while still giving the director complete freedom over his movement decisions during filming. Another example of world capture can be seen in HBO's TV series Westworld where artificial intelligence algorithms were utilized to generate highly realistic landscapes based on real-world locations. 

While there are many best practices associated with the world capture process, ultimately it comes down to understanding what kind of data will beeferences to translate real-world spaces into digital assets. Also referred to as reality capture or scene digitization.