Find out how motion capture technology works, featured in several popular games and movies
movie like avatars AND The Planet of the Apes and games like The Last of Us use motion capture technology to create digital characters based on the performance of the actors.
With motion capture, or mocap (short for “motion capture”), actors create more realistic actions and expressions for CGI (computer graphics) animated characters.
How motion capture works
To record with this technology, actors wear motion capture clothing that records their actions and serves as the basis for building digital models on the computer.
The motion capture suit has multiple sensors or markers placed along the suit. The performance is then recorded by a tracking camera, which follows the movement of the sensors and transforms them into data.
In the mocap recording, the actors’ gazes are not captured by the cameras, but only their movements and expressions. Also, the recording environment usually has a blank or neutral background so as not to interfere with the capture.
motion capture technology
There are several technologies for capturing motion. The most common method uses infrared cameras to track retroreflective markers on the suit. Another method uses LED dots on motion capture clothing.
There is also technology that uses inertial sensors, known as IMUs, which transmit motion data directly to your computer. In this case, the camera is only used as a tracking tool.
With the data obtained from the recording, the motion capture software builds a virtual skeleton of the performance on the computer. From that skeleton, the post-production team designs and animates the character.
In addition to motion capture clothing, markers are also used on actors’ faces to record their expressions and features in detail. In this way, all the nuances of the actor’s performance are transferred to his digital character.
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Source: Terra
Rose James is a Gossipify movie and series reviewer known for her in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the latest releases. With a background in film studies, she provides engaging and informative reviews, and keeps readers up to date with industry trends and emerging talents.
