Using Natural User Interfaces for Previsualization

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: An important phase in the process of visual design for the narrative media is previsualization (previs). Professionals use complicated 3D software applications that are not especially designed for the purpose of previs which makes it difficult for the artists and non-technical users to create previs content.OBJECTIVES: The aim is to empower artists to express and visualize their ideas and creative capabilities in an optimal way.METHODS: We suggest using natural user interfaces (NUIs) and discuss suitable interactions for different previs tasks. We developed and evaluated a series of individual prototypes as well as a central overarching prototype following our NUI concepts.RESULTS: The results show that our NUI-based interaction methods were perceived highly positive and experts found it valuable for their work.CONCLUSION: With only a brief familiarization phase, NUIs can provide a convenient substitute to traditional design tools that require long training sessions.

Keywords

• previsualization
• natural user interface
• virtual reality
• animation
• film
• theatre
• visual effects