Training Course in Motion Capture for Visual Effects (VFX) Using Vicon Shogun

Course Level: Foundation

Introduction

This comprehensive 5-day course is designed for aspiring VFX artists, animators, and filmmakers who want to master the end-to-end motion capture (Mocap) process.

Participants will gain a deep understanding of the professional workflow, from initial creative planning to the final integration of digital characters in a scene.

Duration

5 days

Who Should Take this Course?

• Aspiring VFX Artists and Animators
• Film and Game Design Students
• Digital Content Creators
• Filmmakers interested in using motion capture in their projects
• Anyone with a foundational knowledge of 3D software (e.g., Blender, Maya) and an interest in VFX

Course objectives

By the end of this course, participants will be able to:

• Understand the complete motion capture pipeline, from initial concept to final render.
• Understand the full Vicon Shogun workflow, from initial camera setup to final data export.
• Learn to plan a professional motion capture shoot, including creating a move list and managing talent.
• Master the technical aspects of a Mocap shoot, such as camera calibration and on-set troubleshooting.
• Develop skills in data cleanup and processing, including fixing errors, filling gaps, and smoothing motion.
• Acquire the knowledge to retarget motion data onto different character models.
• Gain experience integrating animated characters into a 3D environment.

Course Requirements

• Access to Vicon Shogun Live and Vicon Shogun Post.
• Basic knowledge of animation principles.
• A strong interest in visual effects and digital character creation.
• Access to a computer capable of running 3D software.
• A stable internet connection
• Proficiency in English

What Can You Do with Motion Capture and VFX Skills?

• Create digital effects, integrating computer-generated imagery (CGI) with live-action footage for films, TV shows, and commercials
• Set up and calibrate the motion capture system, preparing actors with markers, and ensuring the data is captured cleanly and accurately on set
• Fix, track errors, fill in gaps, and ensure the final animation is smooth and realistic for use in games or films
• Create lifelike character movements, from a character's walk cycle to a complex combat sequence
• Analyze human movement in sports science and medicine

Course Outline

Module I: The Foundation Pre-Production Planning

• Introduction to Motion Capture & System Types
• Script and Storyboard Breakdown
• Creating a Mocap Move List
• Directing Mocap Talent
• Wireframing and Pre-Visualization (Previs)

Module II: The Production - The Mocap Shoot

• Understanding the Mocap Volume & Studio Setup
• Suiting Up the Actor and Marker Placement
• T-Pose and Actor Calibration
• Directing on the Day & Troubleshooting
• Capturing Performance Data

Module III: Vicon Shogun - Practical Application

• Vicon Shogun Live vs. Shogun Post
• Hardware and Software Setup
• System and Camera Calibration
• Subject Preparation: A-Pose and Range of Motion (ROM)
• Real-Time Capture and Visualization

Module IV: Post-Production - Data Cleanup

• Introduction to Data Processing Software
• The Data Cleaning Workflow
• Handling Occlusion and Gaps
• Smoothing and Refining
• Practical Data Cleanup

Module V: Post-Production - Retargeting and Integration

• Rigging Fundamentals for MoCap
• The Art of Retargeting
• Integrating the Animated Character into a Scene
• Adding Final Touches via Animation

Module VI: Final Project and Wrap-Up

• Final Project: End-to-End Mocap Workflow
• Review and Feedback Session
• Professional Pipeline Discussion
• Course Completion and Certification