Starting with pre-production and previsualisation, the course then covers key topics such as computer graphics, game engines, inertial and optical motion capturing, and camera tracking. Students work in teams to develop their own basic virtual production environments, conduct prototype testing, and apply their development in a small test shoot. The semester concludes with project presentations and a group reflection.

The combination of theory and practice enables a comprehensive understanding of modern virtual production workflows.

• Describe the production steps of a traditional VFX production.
• Identify and describe the phases of a virtual production.
• Pre-produce a VFX project.
• Design and build a virtual production environment.
• Work with equipment and hardware.
• Transfer 3D geometry from a DCC tool to a real-time engine.
• Manage models, textures, materials and lights in a real-time engine.
• Work in a motion capture volume.
• Combine various data streams in real-time.
• Plan and execute a virtual production shoot.
• Collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams.
• Evaluate creative and technical outcomes.
• Present your project results.

The goal is to independently run through a sample virtual production. In groups, students develop their own projects, test prototypes, and apply tools such as real-time rendering and motion capture in practice. The course concludes with project presentations and a collaborative review session.

• Jeffrey A. Okun & Susan Zwerman (2014). The VES Handbook of Visual Effects: Industry Standard VFX Practices and Procedures. Focal Press.
• Renee Dunlop (2014). Production Pipeline Fundamentals for Film and Games. Focal Press.

• The Virtual Production Field Guide:
  https://cdn2.unrealengine.com/vp-field-guide-v1-3-01-f0bce45b6319.pdf