Name: Animating a photo-real digital face
Uploaded: 2009-10-20T08:57:00Z
Duration: 5 min 49 s
Description: Computer graphics trailblazer Paul Debevec explains the scene-stealing technology behind Digital Emily, a digitally constructed human face so realistic it stands up to multiple takes.

Computer graphics trailblazer Paul Debevec explains the scene-stealing technology behind Digital Emily, a digitally constructed human face so realistic it stands up to multiple takes.

Animating a photo-real digital face

Creating a lifelike digital human face is one of computer graphics’ toughest feats, since people instinctively notice even the smallest flaws. Using a custom face-scanning sphere with 156 LEDs, researchers captured every contour and subtle skin detail in just three seconds. By combining advanced lighting, polarizers, and cutting-edge animation techniques, they produced a digital replica so convincing it fools the eye when it moves. This breakthrough points toward even richer, more believable digital characters for films and games.