What does Special Effects (SFX) mean?
Special Effects (SFX) refer to visual or audio effects created for films, TV shows, and theater productions to simulate events that cannot be achieved through conventional filming techniques. SFX can include practical effects, such as explosions or mechanical creatures, as well as digital effects like CGI (computer-generated imagery). Special effects are essential for creating immersive environments, action sequences, and fantastical elements that enhance the storytelling experience. SFX are often used in conjunction with visual effects (VFX), which are created in post-production.
Example:A special effects team creates an elaborate explosion on set using pyrotechnics to simulate a car crash for an action movie.
Example: In a fantasy film, special effects artists design a practical puppet dragon, which is later enhanced with CGI during post-production.
Did You Know?
The terms “special effects” and “visual effects” are often used interchangeably, but special effects usually refer to practical, on-set techniques, while VFX are digital effects added in post-production!
You can also find “Special Effects (SFX)” and related terms in this category: Technology and Equipment.
