Lightning VFX
29 November 2023
Premise
Setup
This effect was a group task working with 2 other people to create one VFX. Each of us take one aspect of the effect, anticipation, action and resolution. I specifically worked on the resolution of the effect, basically the end of it.
Tackling Process
I started piece by piece by breaking the effect into parts and combining them together at the end.
Particles
- I started with the spark particles effect that emit from the ground and bounce off once off the floor before disappearing
Scorched Ground
- I wanted the lightning to leave an impact on the ground
- I made a texture that resembles a stylized scorched mark on the ground that is illuminated on moment lightning touches the ground and quickly fade to black before disappearing completely.
Black Smoke
- Added a black smoke effect to emphasize the burned ground.
- Its not super visible, but I think it adds just a little bit more to the overall effect.
Dome
- Added a little dome impact effect to emphasize the impact of the lightning. It flashes really quickly and disappears.
Final Result + Thoughts
- Most effects aren't very visible in the final compilation but I do think it still adds to the impact of the effect.