ABSTRACT

Say ‘visual effects’, and most people think of impressive spectacle, of lumbering monsters and crumbling cities, raging fires and similar catastrophes. But many everyday ‘effects’ are quite unobtrusive. They may be decorative or naturalistic, but we use them for entirely practical reasons; because they are convenient, safe, save money, and are reliable. In this chapter we shall look at various methods and mechanisms. Most are quite cheap and simple to apply. Some need extra facilities, but most just require experiment and patience. They will all extend your opportunities.