In terms of research and development for virtual production, this is a large area covering many different sub-disciplines.
Key considerations
- Research and development for virtual production in its broadest sense is a large area covering many different sub-disciplines. The aim is to refine and improve
individual areas of the pipeline, which may include on-set virtual production tools, colour workflows, motion capture, real-time engine software development and
pipeline management.
- The software development side of using real-time engines and associated workflows for virtual production is very specialist and requires expertise gained
through higher level education and study. This is not typically a core area of VFX degrees, however virtual production courses are beginning to introduce real-time
engine training which includes elements of software development such as using visual coding.
- Software used is typically Unreal Engine & Unity, with coding in C++, Python or Blueprints. Some studios have entirely bespoke, proprietary engines.
- Being able to develop new methods of integrating the virtual production pipeline will continue to be important for increasing usability, quality and efficiency of
filmmaking using this method.
Explore the competencies:
Visual effects (VFX) competencies for virtual production - production
Visual effects (VFX) competencies for virtual production - creation