Miniatures and Models for Motion Pictures
Use of scale models in the creation of visual effects by the entertainment industry dates back to the earliest days of cinema. Models and miniatures are copies of people, animals, buildings, settings and objects. They can be smaller than real life, life-size or larger than the objects they represent, depending on the way they will be used. Miniatures or models are used to represent things that do not really exist, or that are too expensive or difficult to film in reality, such as explosions, floods or fires.[1]
History
French director Georges Méliès incorporated special effects in his 1902 film "Le Voyage dans la Lune" (A Trip to the Moon) — including double-exposure, split screens, miniatures and stop-action.[2]
The Golden Years
In the days before widespread use of computer generated imagery was practical, miniaures were a common tool in the visual effects artist's arsenal.
The resurgence of science fiction in the late 1970's saw miniature fabrication rise to new heights in such films as Star Wars, Blade Runner, and Star Trek: The Motion Picture.
Modern Use
While the use of computer generated imagery has largely overtaken physical models and miniatures in recent years, they are still often employed, especially for projects requiring physical interaction with fire, explosions or water.
Techniques
- Kit-Bashing
- Carpentry
- Vacuum Forming
- Molding and Casting
- Fiberglass
- Welding
- Rapid Prototyping
- Motion Control Photography
Miniature Effects Companies
- Cinema Production Services
- Digital Domain
- Fantasy II Film Effects
- Grant McCune Design
- Industrial Light and Magic
- New Deal Studios
- Vision Crew Unlimited
- Weta Workshop
- Wonder Works