The rise of artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming the visual effects (VFX) industry. From AI-assisted animation to machine learning-driven rendering, technology is advancing rapidly.
While some fear that AI will replace VFX artists, the reality is more nuanced. Instead of competing with AI, artists can learn to integrate these tools into their workflows, enhancing efficiency and creativity.
In this article, we’ll explore how AI is changing VFX, the opportunities it creates, and how artists can stay relevant in an AI-driven industry.
How Is AI Changing the VFX Industry?
AI is impacting nearly every aspect of VFX production. Here are some of the key areas where AI is making a difference:
1. Automated Rotoscoping and Compositing
Traditionally, rotoscoping has been a tedious, time-consuming process. AI-powered tools like Adobe’s Roto Brush and Runway ML now automate much of this work, allowing artists to focus on refining the details instead of spending hours manually tracing.
2. AI-Powered Animation and Motion Capture
Deep learning algorithms can now generate realistic animations from minimal input. Tools like DeepMotion and Plask allow for AI-driven motion capture without expensive suits or studio setups, making high-quality animation more accessible to independent creators.
3. Upscaling and Denoising
AI-driven upscaling tools like NVIDIA’s DLSS and Topaz Labs Gigapixel AI can enhance resolution while maintaining detail. AI denoising is also improving rendering times, allowing studios to produce high-quality images faster.
4. Procedural Content Generation
AI can assist in generating environments, textures, and even character designs. Houdini’s procedural workflows, when combined with AI-driven tools, speed up world-building and asset creation.
5. AI-Assisted Rendering
Machine learning-based render engines like NVIDIA’s OptiX and Unreal Engine’s AI denoising features allow for faster render times while maintaining high visual fidelity.
Should VFX Artists Be Worried About AI?
There’s a common fear that AI will replace jobs in the VFX industry. While automation is changing how some tasks are done, AI is not yet capable of replacing the creative problem-solving skills of a human artist. Here’s why:
- AI lacks artistic intuition – While AI can generate assets, it still requires human oversight to achieve the right artistic direction.
- Client and director feedback is unpredictable – VFX is an iterative process that involves collaboration, something AI cannot fully replicate.
- AI tools still need skilled operators – Artists who understand AI-driven workflows will be in higher demand.
Also read: How To Survive the VFX Industry Crisis.
How VFX Artists Can Use AI to Their Advantage
Instead of resisting AI, artists should learn how to use it to speed up workflows, improve efficiency, and enhance creativity. Here’s how:
1. Learn AI-Driven Tools
Understanding how to integrate AI into existing workflows can give artists a competitive edge. Some tools to explore include:
- Runway ML – AI-powered video editing and VFX generation.
- Kaiber AI – AI-driven animation and image generation.
- Stable Diffusion + ControlNet – AI-generated textures and backgrounds.
- DeepMotion – AI-assisted motion capture.
2. Combine AI with Traditional Techniques
AI is best used as an enhancement rather than a replacement for traditional VFX techniques. For example:
- Use AI to generate rough concepts and then refine them manually.
- Speed up tedious tasks like rotoscoping but apply human oversight for quality control.
- AI-generated textures can be adjusted in Substance Painter for a more refined look.
3. Specialize in AI-Assisted Workflows
Studios are looking for artists who can integrate AI into their pipelines. By specializing in AI-assisted workflows, artists can position themselves as valuable assets rather than being replaced by automation.
4. Stay Updated on Industry Trends
The VFX industry is evolving rapidly, and artists who stay informed will have the upper hand. Follow AI developments, experiment with new tools, and attend industry events like SIGGRAPH to see how studios are incorporating AI into their pipelines.
The Future of AI in VFX: What’s Next?
AI is here to stay, and its role in VFX will only expand. Here are some trends to watch:
- Real-time AI-driven rendering – AI will continue to make real-time rendering more efficient, allowing for faster production.
- AI-enhanced character animation – AI tools will improve character rigging and animation, reducing the need for manual keyframing.
- Deep learning-driven asset creation – AI will assist in generating more complex 3D models and environments with less manual effort.
- AI-powered virtual production – AI will enhance real-time VFX in virtual production setups, streamlining previsualization and final rendering.
Conclusion: AI as a Tool, Not a Replacement
AI is transforming the VFX industry, but it is not here to take over—at least not yet. Instead of fearing automation, artists should embrace AI as a tool that can improve efficiency and free up time for more creative work. By staying adaptable and learning how to work alongside AI, VFX artists can future-proof their careers and continue to thrive in an ever-changing industry.
The key is to evolve with technology rather than resist it. AI isn’t replacing artists—it’s giving them new ways to create.
Nyx, Editor at Vertex Mode, is also an experienced 3D Artist in gaming and film, sharing insights on Digital Art and its creators.
