A highly detailed painted (now usually digital) backdrop used to create realistic scenery or environments that would be impossible or too costly to photograph.
Synonyms
- digital matte painting
Related terms
In plain words
- a painted fake background scene in movies
- hand-painted scenery for a shot
Usage example
The alien horizon in the trailer was a matte painting, not a real location.
Don't confuse with…
- concept artMatte paintings are finished, photorealistic backdrops used in the final image; concept art is exploratory and rough.
Categories
- Imagery & illustration