Pre-Visualization
Creating rough animated versions of scenes before filming to plan camera work, timing, and visual effects.
Definition
Pre-visualization (previs) uses basic 3D animation to explore how scenes will look before committing to expensive production. It helps directors communicate vision and identify problems early.
Modern previs can be remarkably detailed, showing camera movements, timing, and basic lighting. Complex sequences—action, visual effects, stunts—especially benefit from previs planning.
Why It Matters
Previs reduces on-set uncertainty and waste. When crews understand exactly what's needed, production efficiency improves significantly.
For visual effects-heavy productions, previs enables accurate bidding and resource planning.
Examples in Practice
"Mad Max: Fury Road" extensively pre-visualized its action sequences, enabling complex stunts to be planned precisely. Marvel films previs entire action sequences before shooting begins.
Previs teams work during development and prep, often producing hours of rough animation for major productions.