In filmmaking,
visual effects (abbreviated
VFX) are the processes by which imagery is created and/or manipulated outside the context of a
live action shot. Visual effects involve the integration of
live-action footage and generated imagery to create environments which look realistic, but would be dangerous, expensive, impractical, or simply impossible to capture on film. Visual effects using
computer generated imagery have recently become accessible to the independent filmmaker with the introduction of affordable and easy-to-use
animation and
compositing software.