The Art and Science of Digital Compositing

by Ron Brinkmann

Computer-generated visual effects are now used extensively in feature films, commercials, music videos, and multimedia. The backbone of this process, the final and most important step, is known as digital compositing. The Art and Science of Digital Compositing is a comprehensive reference that provides a complete overview of the technical and the artistic nature of this process. This book covers a wide range of topics from basic image creation, representation, and manipulation, to a look at the visual cues that are necessary to create a believable composite. Designed as both an introduction to the field as well as a valuable technical reference, this book should be of interest to both novices and professionals alike.

Written by a working professional in the visual effects industry, the book provides over 250 different images and illustrations (including a 40-page color insert) as well as a complete glossary of compositing and visual-effects terminology. Also included are in-depth case studies from well-known films such as Speed, Independence Day, and Titanic.


Balances fundamental "hard science" topics with the more qualitative/artistic challenges which face anyone involved in a digital composition project
Provides examples and illustrations from motion picture work
CD-ROM contains additional composition examples, illustrations, and development software
Includes 32 pages of colour

Genres: Film, Nonfiction, Art, Design, Science, Reference

364 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 2, 1999

Reviews

[Richard McAdam]

Detailed yet accessible overview of the VFX industry and techniques

Brinkman has created a readable yet technically rich introduction to VFX. It's long but worth the effort, with concepts, case studies and insight throughout. Although a little dated in 2020 it still provides excellent grounding in the subject for anyone interested in understanding how movies are made, whether hobbyist or professional.

[Sherif Nagib]

Read this in 2003. Was a part of my first amazon.com order ever. A great book and a true bible of digital compositing & visual effects with a detailed explanation of basics & fundamentals that are still till relevant today.

[Mark]

Definitive.

[Lisa]

This thing comes highly recommended, and I can see why. I will use the hell out of this book.

[Joshbgosh]

Talk about a bible for visual effects!

[Babyjj]

good

[Mike Amelang]

This will help to know what's going on under the hood.