During the session, I learned how to animate objects in UE by changing their positions over time and using Auto Key to automatically create keyframes. This helped me understand how keyframes control movement and how animation can be created directly within Sequencer.
I also learned how to create and position a camera, adjust its settings and control its movement within the scene. By using a Camera Rig Crane, I explored how to adjust parameters such as Pitch, Yaw and Arm Length to create different camera angles and movements.
1. From Traditional Filmmaking to Virtual Production
This workshop explored how traditional filmmaking concepts can be translated into Unreal Engine (UE). By comparing physical film sets with digital environments, I learned how familiar film production processes can be applied to virtual production.
In UE, a project corresponds to a filming location, a level represents a stage, and sub-levels organise different sets within an environment. Props and actors are represented by Static Mesh and Skeletal Mesh Actors, while lighting, cameras and visual effects are managed through digital tools such as Components, Blueprints, Control Rigs and Niagara.
2. Translating Film Structure into Sequencer
Traditional film structures, from the overall film to individual shots, can be organised in UE using nested Level Sequences. A Master Level Sequence controls the overall film, while individual Shot Level Sequences manage specific shots.
This structure helps organise complex scenes and makes it easier to manage camera movements, timing and editing within a virtual production workflow.
3. Different Filmmaking Workflows
The workshop introduced several ways to translate traditional filming techniques into UE:
- Master Scene Technique: A linear workflow that uses a master sequence, multiple cameras and an editing track to organise a scene.
- Triple Take Technique: A non-linear workflow that uses nested sequences and the Take system to manage repeated performances and overlapping actions.
- Collaborative Workflow: Sub-levels, sub-scene tracks and visibility tracks allow multiple artists to work on different elements of the same project.
These approaches demonstrate how UE can support both traditional filmmaking methods and collaborative digital production.
4. Understanding Sequencer
Sequencer is UE’s built-in cinematic sequencing tool. It can be used for pre-visualisation, creating individual shots, producing complete cinematic sequences and developing game cutscenes.
It allows artists to combine animation, camera movement, timing and editing within a single digital environment.