Science fiction movies fascinate us. The special effects and the visual effects that ads, movies and shows showcase, equally mesmerizes us. Right from the first Star Wars movie to the latest Avengers one, these effects have grown exponentially in modern times. Earlier this tech was not easily affordable or available. Although it is still an expensive outing, filmmakers now use it with more ease because of the huge number of VFX artists and companies that have made this tech more accessible.

As laymen, we may fail to technically understand creating or using the effects. It may be difficult to differentiate between special and visual effects. However, there is a considerable difference between the two.

Visual Effects Explained !

The visual effect is the process of creating moving images or imagery, enhanced or manipulated with the help of Computer Graphic Imagery (CGI). These effects are added to a scene later during post-production after primary imagery is complete. These effects are an integral part of science fiction movies.

Techniques such as matte painting; rear- and front-screen projection; miniature or forced perspective sets; computer graphic objects, characters, and environments; and compositing disparate images are some CGI techniques. The best example of this is the movie, Avatar. All of Pandora was CGI, including the planes and helicopters shown in the movie.

Special Effects Explained !

Special effects are generally described as effects that can be done while the scene is being filmed and are commonly called Practical effects. Even though it is often difficult to determine as both of them (Visual Effects, Special Effects) go hand in hand going by current methods. This collaboration has been enhanced by digital technology.

For instance, digital rig removal from live-action footage has allowed more freedom for special effects artists to create more elaborate rigs on. Other than that examples of more typical special effects are bullet hits, practical explosions, rain, fire, car gags of all sorts, flying rigs, motion rigs that shake sets or props or vehicles, gimbals to mimic the motion of boats or planes, and artificial ocean waves and spray.

Hope now the difference between Visual Effects, Special Effects is clear !