This course explores the foundations of cinematography relating to the visual effects industry. Introductory concepts are explored, including shot definition, framing, technique and technology. Students shoot short subjects with an emphasis on the technical aspects of the art. Prerequisite(s): CMPA 110.

This course covers intermediate concepts in programming, with an emphasis on understanding the foundations of 3-D modeling, lighting and shading, and the use of C/C++ and Pixar’s RenderMan scene description languages. Students also learn Pixar’s shading language for rendering special effects. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 210 or ANIM 250.

Procedural modeling and animation techniques allow animators to create environments of limitless complexity. Scenes are defined by relationships rather than singularities. Students are expected to utilize programming and text editing skills to develop dynamic digital effects. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 210 or ANIM 250.

In this course, students are expected to develop methods for cultivating ideas and an understanding of narrative storytelling as it relates to film language, screen design and concept development. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 160, VSFX 210.

This course explores programming concepts used to create 3-D lighting scenarios and environments with a focus on developing a personal aesthetic. Students apply these concepts to create code-based shaders, scripts and other procedures to develop aesthetically strong visuals for long formats. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 319.

This course explores concepts in 3-D digital materials, lighting and rendering and developing techniques to create the illusion of a “real” world utilizing 3-D computer graphics. Students gain understanding of and skills with lighting tools, including 3-D and 2-D applications, as well as a variety of rendering techniques. Prerequisite(s): ANIM 250 or ITGM 240 or MOME 401 or VSFX 210.

High Dynamic Range Imaging emphasizes the integration of computer-generated objects or characters into real world video or film footage. High Dynamic Range Imaging seeks to develop and integrate photography, lighting and rendering into various 3-D and 2-D software applications by utilizing digital images containing light information more accurately than traditional digital imaging means. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 210.

In this course students learn traditional hands on techniques for the building of models, miniature environments and set extensions. Methodologies to combine these creations into believable visual effects scenes both with and without live action elements are explored. Through direct and hands-on exposure to miniature construction, finishing and photography, students develop the skills required to produce a visual effects shot utilizing models rather than or in addition to computer graphics or optical effects techniques. The context of these types of practical effects is set through the use of film clips and examples as well as discussion of the methodologies used throughout film history. Prerequisite(s): PROD 221 or VSFX 210.

This course aims to prepare students for employment in the field of visual effects. Students investigate career opportunities and the requirements of the position of interest. Development of a portfolio and demo reel is enhanced by the continued study of motion graphics, compositing and sound. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 408.

Students taking this course are introduced to the RenderMan Scene Description Language (RIB) and the RenderMan Shading Language (RSL). Pixar's RenderMan is a widely used rendering technology used for feature animated and special effects film production. The basics of Python and MEL scripting are also covered. 

This course covers many of the essential aspects of 3-D modeling, texturing, lighting and animation for use in the visual effects industry. Professional workflows, techniques and presentation skills are emphasized and encouraged throughout the course.

This course introduces high-end digital multilayering. Techniques and aesthetic issues are explored to produce time-based imagery. Students acquire and integrate aesthetically driven live-action imagery into broadcast or visual effects projects utilizing a wide range of media formats. Prerequisite(s): ANIM 709 or VSFX 708.

Students define a personal vision creating visual effects for film. Concentrating on the design of visual effects sequences, specific attention is directed toward the development of scripts, storyboards, shot breakdowns, animatics, technical direction documents, estimates and schedules in the planning process. As preparation for thesis work, this course is flexible with a strong emphasis on critique. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 709.

Students focus on the integration of imagery, websites, video and various elements into a visual effects portfolio. Students are expected to learn and apply effective tools for self-promotion, including a reel, CD compilation, website, cover letter and résumé. Proper and effective marketing techniques, interviewing techniques, job search strategies and business practices are covered to provide an understanding of operations in the effects industry. M.A. students enroll in this course during their final quarter of the visual effects program. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 709 and completion of the review for candidacy.

Exploring concepts in motion capture technology, students establish the skills required to create precise data based on a live action actor. They refine their data editing skills for applying this skeletal motion data to previously rigged characters, which results in a 3-D representation of realistic motion in a visual effects context. Prerequisite(s): ANIM 709 or VSFX 708 or VSFX 709.

Exploring the challenges of integrating photo-real creatures into live action films, students establish the look and style of 3-D creatures through the definition of surface attributes. Students refine their previsualization skills and abilities to create a final rendered look for a digital creature. Prerequisite(s): ANIM 709 or VSFX 708 or VSFX 709.

This course addresses the role of digital matte painting in augmenting the visual environment; students apply this technique to the re-creation of both realistic and fantasy scenes. Issues such as color, space, depth and perspective as painting techniques are explored. The elements created in the course may be used with 3-D elements and composited for other projects. Prerequisite(s): ANIM 709 or VSFX 708.

This course focuses on the global fundamentals of workstation scripting and programming specifically for visual effects. This includes workstation editing tools, UNIX shell scripting, PERL, MEL and Hscript scripting, and creating geometry via PERL programming. The course covers developing a technical director utility bin, including renaming files and object parsing. Students are introduced to large-scale file management and Render-farm management. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 705.

Students analyze the possibilities and constraints of visual effects design as they refine an entire visual effects vision for visual effects sequences. The course is flexible with a strong emphasis on thought processes, aesthetics and research. Prerequisite(s): VSFX 735.

Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.