The Visual Effects Society (VES) announced the release of the much-anticipated 3rd edition of The VES Handbook of Visual Effects. It covers essential techniques and solutions for all VFX artists, producers, and supervisors, from pre-production through production and postproduction. The book has been cited by leading practitioners as the definitive visual effects textbook and the essential reference for the craft and art of VFX.
Edited by renowned visual effects supervisor Jeffrey A. Okun, VES and VFX producer Susan Zwerman, VES, the update to the award-winning guide includes the latest industry-standard techniques, technologies, and workflows in the fast-paced world of visual effects. The VES tasked the original authors to update their areas of expertise, including AR/VR moviemaking, color management, cameras, VFX editorial, stereoscopic and the digital intermediate, and to provide detailed chapters on interactive games and full animation.
Additionally, 56 new contributors–representing the best and the brightest in the industry–share their proven methods, tricks and shortcuts earned through decades of real-world, hands-on experience.
In announcing the release of the book, VES chair Mike Chambers said, “The VES sees the continual update of our handbook as an essential mandate and a vital contribution to the ever-advancing field of VFX. We embrace the responsibility and opportunity to provide ongoing education for VFX practitioners and filmmakers, and are proud to offer this invaluable resource on our art and craft.”
Okun related, “Far beyond basic information on techniques for visual effects artists in general, it shares the combined practical hands-on experience and tips from leaders in all VFX verticals. It is THE guide to navigate the practical day-to-day issues that will be experienced by every working professional at various points in their careers.“
Zwerman added, “This is a must-read for all visual effects filmmakers. The writers have combined wisdom and practicality to produce an extraordinary book that covers every aspect of visual effects techniques in a concise manner without losing sight of its art and innovation.”
This 3rd edition has been expanded to feature lessons on 2.5D/3D Compositing; 3D Scanning; Digital Cinematography; Editorial Workflow in Animated and Visual Effects Features; Gaming updates; General Geometry Instancing; Lens Mapping for VFX; Native Stereo; Real-Time VFX & Camera Tracking; Shot/Element Pulls and Delivery to VFX; Techvis; VFX Elements and Stereo; Virtual Production; and VR/AR.
The VES Handbook of Visual Effects: Industry Standard VFX Practices and Procedures, 3rd Edition is available for purchase at Amazon.com and other leading online booksellers.
American Society of Cinematographers presents 2024 Student Heritage Award winners
The American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) announced winners in the 2024 Student Heritage Awards competition. Three student filmmakers were selected for demonstrating outstanding cinematography skills in their submitted work. The Awards ceremony, presided over by ASC president Shelly Johnson and held at the historic ASC Clubhouse in Hollywood, also celebrated the lasting memory of three legendary ASC members whose work inspired generations.
Ellen Kuras, ASC presented the John Bailey Heritage Award (Graduate Category) to Joewi Verhoeven of the American Film Institute for “Taha.”
The George Spiro Dibie Heritage Award (Undergraduate Category) was presented by Michael Goi, ASC, ISC to Isabelle Leonard of the University of Southern California for “Amos' Bride.”
Patrick Cady, ASC presented The Haskell Wexler Documentary Award to Meg Weck of the University of Southern California for “Danceable.”
The Student Awards, sponsored by Sony, are one of several educational programs designed by the organization to support a new generation of talent in the early stages of their cinematography careers. To qualify, a student’s undergraduate, graduate or documentary project is submitted and judged by an ASC blue-ribbon panel for demonstrating exceptional cinematographic skill.
Many of the ASC Student Heritage Award winners have gone on to have successful careers in filmmaking, including the Student Awards Committee co-chairs Craig Kief and Armando Salas, alongside other ASC members Nelson Cragg, Masanobu Takayanagi, and Lisa Wiegand.
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