The Visual Effects Society (VES) has announced the upcoming Fourth Edition of its award-winning visual effects handbook. Available for pre-orders, The VES Handbook of Visual Effects, Fourth Edition includes contributions from 95 visual effects experts and will be published on December 18 from Routledge.

“This is our most comprehensive handbook yet, and provides an opportunity to learn the tricks of the trade from many of the preeminent industry leaders in the field,” said Nancy Ward, Executive Director of the Visual Effects Society. “The range of what's covered – everything from bidding to camera work to the latest advances in CG workflows – makes this an essential companion for anyone working to advance their craft in the world of visual effects and content creation.”

Updated to reflect the evolving industry landscape, the new edition includes chapters by new writers that cover virtual production, AI, NeRFs, and Gaussian Splatting. Additionally, the edition reflects updates from the original authors on areas such as previs, AR/VR filmmaking, color management (including ACES), the digital intermediate process, cameras, and matte painting.

The Fourth Edition explores:

- Virtual production overview and detailed best practices

- Use of real-time game engines in virtual production, motion capture, previs, and animation

- Use of AI in visual effects

- Overview of techniques for NeRFs and 3D Gaussian splatting

- Script and shot breakdowns

- Compositing of live action elements and deep compositing

- Immersive experiences utilizing AR/VR technologies, hemispheres, and domes

- Editors for the Fourth Edition include Jeffrey A. Okun, Susan Zwerman, and Susan Thurmond O’Neal.

Source: Visual Effects Society