Technical direction in digital effects for feature film

Abstract

This project involves utilising technical direction methods and techniques such as the development of procedural networks, and optimization of these networks within Side Effects Software’s Houdini, to have artists work efficiently to produce high quality shots for an actual feature film. The project goes on to detail the processes and logic when developing custom tools as a technical director on a production to solve challenges that artists face when developing shots, as well as the integration of VFX workflows with Houdini into existing pipelines in order to work together with various software, thus highlighting the critical role of a technical director and the impact it has on production. Lastly, it also goes into development of shot work, such as the processes of breaking down effects elements in shots in order to plan a course of action to take, planning of artist’s controls for Houdini Digital Assets, anticipating what changes may occur throughout the course of developing an effects shot, and the thought process of building an effect towards the final rendered image.