How do filmmakers use visual effects to make actors look shorter or taller?

Filmmakers use visual effects to make actors look shorter or taller in a variety of ways. One common technique is through the use of forced perspective, which involves manipulating the distance between the camera and the subject to create the illusion of size. Another method is through the use of green screen technology, which allows for the insertion of actors into digitally created environments, where their size can be altered in post-production.

Forced perspective is often used in filmmaking to make actors appear taller or smaller than they actually are. This technique involves placing the subject closer to the camera than the rest of the scene, creating the illusion that they are larger or smaller than their surroundings. This effect can also be achieved by using a camera with a telephoto lens, which compresses the image and makes the subject appear closer than they actually are. This technique was famously used in the Lord of the Rings films, where the hobbits were made to appear smaller than the human characters.

Another technique used by filmmakers to alter the size of actors is green screen technology. This involves filming actors against a green screen and then replacing the green background with a digitally created environment in post-production. The size of the actor can be adjusted in this process, allowing them to appear larger or smaller than they actually are. This technique was used extensively in the film Alice in Wonderland, where the character of Alice was made to appear much larger than her surroundings.

In addition to forced perspective and green screen technology, filmmakers may also use other techniques to make actors appear taller or shorter. These include the use of prosthetics, such as oversized shoes or hats, and the use of camera angles and lighting to create the illusion of size.

Overall, the use of visual effects to make actors appear taller or shorter is a common technique in filmmaking. Through the use of forced perspective, green screen technology, and other techniques, filmmakers are able to create compelling and visually stunning films that capture the imagination of audiences around the world.

Source: