CGI Full Form

CGI  full form is Computer Generated Imagery. It is a computer graphic application which is used to create 3D images, animation, architectural design, movies, video games, etc.Thus it mainly helps in contributing in print media, television programmes, advertising, films, etc. Basically, CGI is created with the help of wireframe prototypes.

What is the Full Form of CGI?

As discussed above, CGI full form is Computer Generated Imagery and is considered as an application used for computer graphics helping in creating 3D images, animation effects, visual content, designs for architecture, etc. CGI is a type of visual effects through which the filmmakers generate images or animation which can’t exist in the real world. Mainly CGI is used to develop 3D graphics for video games and also in production houses working on movies and TV shows.

How CGI was originated?

It was incepted in the year 1950 when mechanical computers were used to develop patterns on animation which were later included in the form of feature picture. The film named as Vertigo which was directed by Alfred Hitchcock is considered the first movie to use CGI during the year 1958. In the year 1972 Edwin and Fred directed a short-animated film which included 3D animation and can be called one of the best examples of CGI.

What is the Process of CGI?

The following are the steps which are included in the process of CGI

1. Conceptualization: It is considered the first process where a person analysis the object or the scene which is required to create. Before creating, it’s important to understand the design of the object. It may require drawing a rough sketch for better understanding.

2. Modeling: In this stage, the person creates a 3D model of the scene or object which is done by using 3D software like Maya, etc.

3. Texturing: After creating the model the next comes to texture or fill colour in the object to make it more realistic.

4. Lighting: In this stage the brightness of the scene is adjusted to give a more real look

5. Rendering: During this step, the scene or object is rendered. As this includes converting 3D objects into 2D animation or models. Rendering calculates the shadows and light to develop a final animation or image

6. Post-production: This is the final step which is done after completing CGI, there may be a need to edit or add some recorded action shots to create a final animation or video

Different Types of CGI

Mostly Computer Generated Imagery (CGI full form) is used by filmmakers to create a real-life effect. The following are types CGI

• Pre-visualisation: Different 3D models are used to develop live-action scenes, the cameraman records a glimpse of how the shot should appear, and then with the help of CGI visuals are added to make it a real-looking or actual situation.
• 3D modelling: It allows the user to create 3D representation of any required object, live creature such as monsters, or humans. Then the user uses CGI to add pictures to the shot.
• 3D animation: It helps in creating a virtual reality scene with the help of computer graphics.
• Creation and changes: CGI also helps in changing the intensity or colour of the elements used in the shot. Even an individual can create virtual rain or anything as per the requirement.
• 2D animation: It helps in converting images in animation form to show the movement
• Motion graphics: It includes the use of typography and animated graphics which is used to title sequence and develop visual communication.
• Digital Painting: It is used to create and insert self-made/ painted images into an action shot to make a virtual set or background. Mostly used in movies

Departments of CGI

CGI is considered a time-consuming process and requires huge technological knowledge. Below are some departments of CGI

1. Department of Art

It is used to turn the director’s vision and script into the form of graphics which includes creative and technical aspects.

2. Pre- Visualization

The designers are responsible for designing 3D models which help in creating real-life scenes in the film.

3. Department of Assets

The person is responsible for using virtual assets to match real-world things. They create things which are not possible or require heavy investment in reality.

4. Growth and Research

They are responsible for developing new tools and software to finish the task by investing less time. This type of position requires a person to have good knowledge of computer graphics software.

5. Animation

An Animator makes a real situation in the form of animation. This is mostly used in making animated movies or short films 

Different Aspects of CGI

Below mentioned are some aspects of CGI, full form of which, is Computer Generated Imagery

• Rendering: It is used to create a digital image or a 3D model. This can be done using techniques such as tracing, scanning, morphing, etc
• Animation: This helps in creating a sequence of digital images to show the movement. This is done using methods like keyframe animation, simulation, motion capture, etc.
• Special Effects: This includes adding digital elements to live-action shots/scenes in order to create real effects.

Features of CGI

The following are some important features of CGI

• It helps to make well-structured and impressive imagery of any scene
• It is considered the quickest way to create visual effects
• It works with all browsers
• CGI  helps in creating realistic visual effects for video games, film, etc
• CGI Creates 3D animation and models which are used in designing product and architecture models.
• Special effects and visualization which are helpful in presenting scientific and medical models can be created with CGI
• Creating  a virtual environment for the purpose of training and simulation is possible with this technology
• It can be used to make animated characters for storytelling 
• CGI helps in creating 2D and 3D graphics which are used in advertising, short films, etc
• CGI curates terrain and map data in graphical representation which is used in GPS
• Visual effects which are used in creating real-life image of any object or place such as theme park is another contribution of CGI

Advantages of CGI

The following are the major advantages of CGI

• It can easily create imaginary scenes which is helpful in creating and developing video games, ads, etc.
• CGI helps to create realistic or virtual images of any object, or person which may be expensive or impossible to do in the real world.
• It is used to develop special effects or animation which is dangerous or expensive to shoot in the real world.
• It can also create images using Computer Generated Imagery (CGI full form)
• It enables  in creating effective and engaging advertisements
• It provides more flexibility as you can make changes according to the need

Disadvantages of Computer Generated Imagery (CGI full form)

Below mentioned are the disadvantages of CGI

•  It might be expensive at times
• CGI's use requires a good computer with a powerful graphic card
• Costly software is required for using CGI
• It’s a time-consuming process