Previously, when I showed a sample video made with CG to someone, he asked me, “Why not just use a camera instead of CG?” At the time, I could only respond with, “CG allows for more creative freedom,” which left me feeling like I hadn’t fully answered the question. So, I decided to summarize the differences in more detail.

Advantages of Camera Filming

• If the object already exists and the shoot or editing is simple, it’s easier than using CG.
• With a smartphone, you can easily film on the spot.

Disadvantages of Camera Filming

• You need to physically go to the location.
• You need to prepare the location, real objects, and lighting.

Advantages of CG

• You can create things that are impossible in the real world, making them more visually engaging than real objects.
• You can depict things that don’t yet exist or haven’t been completed in real life.
• You can redo shots without being physically present.

Disadvantages of CG

• If there’s no pre-existing 3D model, it has to be created from scratch, which can take time.
• For longer videos, rendering time can be too long to be practical.

These days, the quality of video and images that can be captured with smartphones is remarkably high, making on-the-spot shooting a significant advantage. For straightforward explanatory videos or cases where specific individuals need to be featured, filming with a camera is often more practical as it eliminates the need for CG production.

The biggest drawback of camera filming is that it requires physical objects. For instance, if you want to capture the splash of water, you have to be prepared for the room to get soaked and repeat the process until you get the shot you want.

CG, on the other hand, is entirely done on a computer, so you don’t need a physical location or objects. It’s especially advantageous for scenarios like creating visuals for an unfinished room showroom, photos of a product still in development, challenging real-world setups, or when you want to make the visuals more engaging. This freedom of expression is CG’s greatest strength.

While starting from scratch can take time, it’s also possible to save time by purchasing 3D models online.

Ultimately, it’s not about which is better—both camera filming and CG have their strengths, and the key is to use them appropriately depending on the situation.

Need Help with Video? I’m Here!

I specialize in creating CG animations. If you already have footage filmed with a camera and want to enhance it with computer-generated visuals, feel free to reach out! You might think, “If I can do it myself, why pay someone to create it in CG?”—and to an extent, that’s true. However, creating commercial-grade visuals and videos requires experience, whether it’s with a camera or computer graphics. Like painters who spend years honing their craft, this skill is developed over time and through extensive practice.

If you’ve tried creating something yourself and weren’t fully satisfied with the results, I’d be happy to help. Don’t hesitate to contact me with your project inquiries!