This MA thesis explores whether VR/AR tools are a practical addition to pre-production for small-scale 3D animated shorts; the kind made by solo creators and small teams working without big-studio budgets. While larger studios are beginning to adopt these tools for visualization and collaboration, steep learning curves, integration hurdles, and high costs have kept them out of reach for most independent productions.

To test their real-world viability, I built a virtual production pipeline focused on the pre-production stage of a 3D animated short, using an existing 2D film as the narrative foundation. Within that framework, I produced a set of prototype assets using two contrasting approaches: a VR/AR-integrated method built around accessible hardware (a standalone Meta Quest 3s and a mid-range gaming laptop) and low-cost or open-source software, and a traditional method reflecting current industry workflows. I evaluated both through time logs, recorded sessions, written assessments, and feedback from volunteer artists and professionals.

The final report offers concrete, budget-conscious recommendations for small teams looking to adopt VR/AR without prohibitive costs; showing where these tools could genuinely enhance storytelling and production quality, and where traditional methods are still king.