Course Overview

🎬 Module 1: Introduction to VFX & SFX
• Understanding the difference between VFX (Visual Effects) and SFX (Special Effects)
• History and evolution in cinema
• Applications in film, TV, gaming, and advertising

🖌️ Module 2: Fundamentals of Visual Effects (VFX)
• Motion tracking and compositing basics
• Green screen (chroma key) techniques
• Rotoscoping and keyframing essentials
• Working with layers and masks

💥 Module 3: Practical Special Effects (SFX)
• Practical effects vs digital effects
• Smoke, fire, squibs, and blood packs
• Using miniatures and physical props
• On-set safety protocols

🛠️ Module 4: Tools of the Trade
• Introduction to After Effects, Blender, and Houdini
• Adobe Premiere for post-production
• Fusion vs Nuke for node-based VFX
• Practical gear: fog machines, rigs, explosives (safe use demo)

🌐 Module 5: CGI and 3D Effects
• Basics of 3D modeling and rendering
• Particle systems and simulations
• Camera matching and environment design
• Integrating 3D into live-action footage

🎨 Module 6: Color Grading & Cinematic Look
• Understanding LUTs and color palettes
• Mood creation through color
• Color grading workflows in DaVinci Resolve

🧨 Module 7: Advanced Effects & Explosions
• Explosion VFX (digital and physical)
• Destruction simulations (buildings, debris, glass)
• Water, fire, smoke particle dynamics

🔊 Module 8: Sound Design for FX
• Difference between sound effects and Foley
• Syncing sound with visuals
• Using DAWs like Audacity and Adobe Audition

🧪 Module 9: Final Capstone Project
• Create a short scene combining VFX + SFX
• Apply learned techniques from pre-production to post
• Peer review and instructor feedback
• Showcase-ready final output

📦 Bonus: Industry Secrets & Career Path
• Getting into the VFX/SFX industry
• Portfolio tips and client-ready reels
• Working in studios vs freelancing