Chapter 9

Industry Trends

With the progression of the art of 3D animation being so closely tied to technology it is created with, it is worth looking ahead to the next big technology push in the 3D animation industry. New technologies are released yearly in many forms—ranging from computer hardware with more speed and faster data transfers, software with advanced capabilities, and technologies that make the workflow more seamless. Some of the new trends being pursued by the 3D animation industry include full-body and detail motion capture, stereoscopic 3D output, point-cloud data, real-time workflow capabilities, and virtual studios. Some of these technologies are in use today but not available to all consumers. For others, consumer use is still over the horizon. Each will provide a faste....