As a virtual photographer, especially a growing newbie, it’s always important to stay updated with important terms that help you understand what other experienced VP artists are talking about. It is not just about taking good photos and editing them perfectly to convey the right message, updating your lexicon will always help you stand out amongst other photographers.
There are a lot of terms in the virtual photography industry. A number of these terms intersect with traditional photography, so this helps in learning terms for photography at large. Let’s dive in.
Virtual Photography
Virtual photography, abbreviated VP, is the art of capturing images within virtual worlds such as video games. This means, photographers can explore and document virtual worlds, creating stunning visuals and narratives through the lens of a virtual camera. You can utilize tools and features provided by games, such as photo mode, to freeze time, manipulate lighting, and compose shots to capture the essence and beauty of the virtual world.
The creative possibilities of virtual photography are vast, enabling you to experiment with angles, perspectives, and effects that would be challenging or impossible in traditional photography. Virtual photography offers a unique blend of gaming and photography, allowing photographers to become storytellers within virtual worlds.
Photomode
This is a feature in video games that allows players to freeze time and take control of a virtual camera to capture screenshots or create artistic compositions within the game. Photomode serves as a powerful tool for virtual photographers, providing them with a range of options to manipulate camera settings, adjust lighting, and depth of field, and apply various effects.
With the photomode feature, you can explore the virtual world from different angles, experiment with compositions, and create visually stunning images. It offers a level of control and creativity beyond simply taking screenshots, allowing you and other virtual photographers alike to express their creative vision and capture unique moments in the game.
Capture Art
Capture art is another term that refers to the artistic practice of capturing images within video games using tools like photomode or other techniques. It involves the use of photography principles to create compelling images within video games. Capture art goes beyond simply documenting the game's visuals; it aims to evoke emotions, tell stories, and showcase the beauty and creativity of virtual worlds.
Virtual photographers often approach capture art by carefully composing shots, manipulating lighting and settings, and applying post-processing techniques to enhance the visual impact of their images. It is a form of art that blurs the boundaries between gaming and photography, offering a new medium of expression for you, as well as other artists and enthusiasts alike.
Framing
Framing in virtual photography simply refers to the deliberate arrangement and placement of elements within the photograph to create a visually pleasing composition. It involves considering factors such as balance, perspective, and the rule of thirds to guide the viewer's eye and draw attention to the intended subject or focal point.
By carefully selecting what is included within the frame and how it is positioned, you can create compelling and visually balanced images. Framing also allows photographers to create depth and layers within the composition, creating a more immersive visual experience. It is a fundamental aspect of virtual photography as it helps you tell better stories with your images.
Resolution
Resolution refers to the level of detail and clarity in an image. It is determined by the number of pixels captured by the virtual camera or displayed on the screen. Higher-resolution images have more pixels, resulting in sharper and more detailed photographs. In virtual photography, working with higher resolutions allows you to capture the minute intricacies in your video games, showcasing the textures, lighting, and other small details that contribute to the overall immersive experience.
Higher resolutions also offer more flexibility during post-processing, enabling photographers to crop, zoom, or print larger images without sacrificing and compromising on quality. Understanding resolution and leveraging higher resolutions in virtual photography can significantly enhance the visual impact and overall quality of the captured images.
Depth of Field
Depth of field is known as the range of distance within a photograph that appears acceptably sharp. It is a creative tool used to control the focus and emphasize certain elements within a scene. When you adjust your depth of field, you are able to create a sense of depth and separation between the subject and the background or foreground. A shallow depth of field, achieved by using a wide aperture, can blur the background, drawing attention to the main subject and creating a sense of intimacy.
On the other hand, a deep depth of field, achieved by using a narrow aperture, keeps the entire scene in focus, capturing the tiniest details of the game. Understanding and utilizing depth of field in virtual photography allows you to guide your viewer's attention and create stunning photos.
Post-processing
Post-processing means the editing and enhancement of photos using editing software or in-game features. It is an essential step in the virtual photography workflow, allowing you to refine your images and achieve their desired aesthetic. Post-processing techniques can include adjusting colors, contrast, brightness, and sharpness, as well as applying filters, effects, and other creative adjustments.
Additionally, you can also use post-processing to correct lens distortions, remove unwanted objects, or enhance the overall visual impact of the image. With post-processing, you can add your signature artistic touch, bring out the intended mood, and create beautiful photos that showcase your games in a unique and captivating way.
Vignette
This to a gradual darkening or lightening of the corners or edges of a photo. It is a post-processing technique used to draw focus to the center of the image and create a spotlight effect on the subject. A vignette can help create a sense of depth, mood, or drama within your image. By darkening the edges, photographers can direct the viewer's gaze towards the center, enhancing the visual impact of the subject.
On the other hand, a lightened vignette can create a soft, dreamy, or ethereal atmosphere. Vignettes are often applied during post-processing using photo editing software like Lightroom, Photoshop, etc., or in-game filters to add a finishing touch to the virtual image.
Virtual Landscapes
This is probably our favorite part of in-game photography. Capturing digital environments within video games means stunning photographs. Virtual landscapes often feature breathtaking scenery, ranging from vast mountains to serene forests, futuristic cityscapes, and fantastical realms. You have the opportunity to explore and document these virtual landscapes, capturing their beauty, unique lighting, and intricate details. By utilizing various virtual photography techniques, you can compose shots, manipulate lighting, and apply creative effects to create compelling and immersive images that showcase the utmost beauty of these amazing scenic views.
Virtual Exhibitions
Virtual exhibitions means online showcases or galleries where virtual photographers can display and share their work with a wider audience. Quick one! Picashot serves you in this manner, allowing you to display your art in a portfolio format for the world to see.
These exhibitions provide a platform for recognition, appreciation, and collaboration within the virtual photography community. Virtual photographers can submit their photographs to virtual exhibitions, where they are curated and displayed for others to view and appreciate.
These exhibitions often feature different themes, styles, or genres, allowing photographers like you to explore and showcase the unique perspectives you have. Virtual exhibitions provide virtual photographers with an opportunity to connect with other enthusiasts, gain exposure, and contribute to the growing appreciation of virtual photography as an art form.
Are there other terms you are curious about? Share with us and we will dive into them in our next tips and tricks post.
Cover Photo from @JontyVP
Post Photos from @m_nt_13, @gamechin, @astrayn, @mnaxer and @TheMoltenCat