What Is Motion Capture?

Motion capture is the process of recording the actions of human actors and digitizing those movements for film, television, and video game development. It includes even the most subtle of movements, such as facial expressions and dexterous finger movements (also known as performance capture).

The data collected from the recordings are mapped to a 3D model so that the virtual character can perform the same movements as the human actor. Actors must be mindful of the body proportions of the characters they are representing. For example, if a character has oversized hands, the actor must take that into consideration as they move their hands around and be sure to account for the extra physical space that the hands would occupy.

While motion-captured animation might seem like a good replacement for traditional hand-animated sequences, it can’t replace it entirely. When it comes to movements that are physically impossible for a human actor to demonstrate, that’s where animators can come in and create a blend of motion-captured animations with hand-animated sequences

Released in 2002, The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers was the first film to use real-time, full-on performance capture with the character Gollum. Learn more about creating Gollum below:

“Creating Gollum” by nature video

Motion Capture in the Video Game Industry

Motion capture is commonly used in video game production. Sega Model 2’s Virtua Fighter 2 game was created in 1994 and was known for introducing motion capture animation to the video game industry.

At the 2016 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, Epic Games demonstrated their suite of integrated tools for game developers called Unreal Engine, which showcased the game engine’s ability to capture expressions made by an actor and render them in real time.

Watch the scene below:

“A Video Game Has Incorporated Motion Capture To In Real Time” by Futurism

If you are looking for a motion capture actor or a company experienced in motion capture animation for your next production, check out our online Nevada Production Directory to find help with casting, talent, and animation services in Nevada or drop by our office and pick up a free printed directory!

If you are experienced in the field of motion capture and are not yet listed in our Nevada Production Directory, you can learn more about how to sign up for the NPD here.

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