To VFX or Not to VFX

To recap: Visual effects serves storytelling. A visual effect without a story is a "test."

If you're considering visual effects for your project, ask yourself:

1. What story (or story point) do we need to convey?

2. Can we convey the story without images? If not…

3. Can we create the images required without using visual effects? If not…

4. Can we create the images by using a combination of “practical” and “visual effects” methods?

5. What human, financial and technical resources do we need to create the images?

6. How have other practitioners addressed this challenge before us?

7. What is the least expensive way (time = money) to create the images at the quality level required? [Remember, it called "show-business" for a reason.]