VTuber stands for Virtual YouTubers, which is a virtual content creator using an animated avatar. If any user wants to become a VTuber, he can create an avatar, use motion capture technology, and produce content.
The technology employs computer-generated avatars to produce material for their channels. VTubers are gaining popularity all across the world but they have particularly gained prominence in Japan and other Asian countries.
Who are VTubers?
A VTuber is a type of online personality who uses a computer-generated avatar on streaming platforms such as YouTube and Twitch. These avatars can be personalized to reflect the VTuber’s personality. They frequently incorporate anime-like traits. Fans of both anime and video games like these traits.
VTubers can be real people who broadcast gaming, commentaries, and business, or they can be fictional characters created by agencies. To build these avatars, motion capture technology is used.
History and Development of VTuber
The virtual characters were introduced in the media culture long ago before gaining popularity on YouTube. In 1985, computer-generated TV presenter Max Headroom debuted on British TV.
However, it is argued that VTubers were introduced in the early 2010s. Ami Yamato, a Japanese vlogger based in London, England, uploaded videos utilizing virtual characters instead of using their image in 2011. Then, in 2015, Barbie also started her own virtual YouTube channel.
Kizuna Ai, a Japanese VTuber, first coined the term in 2016. It gained popularity quickly in Japan. It soon became a part of Japanese culture by getting featured in marketing campaigns, TV shows, and even being used on billboards in Shibuya.
Process of Becoming a VTuber
The most popular VTubers are anime characters owned and produced by companies or people who work through agencies for a company rather than individual content creators.
The number of virtual creators is growing every year. Virtual streamers are also gaining popularity. To start as a VTuber, a user has to develop an avatar or invest in its creation, use a quality webcam, and spend money on software that can help in tracking and capturing their movement and facial expressions to stream their character.
The user will need an original character along with a winning online personality and an initial investment in the technology required to be able to film or stream as a virtual avatar.
Steps Involved in Becoming a VTuber
- Develop a distinctive concept, including the personality, interests, and biography of the avatar.
- Choose a motion capture technology that is suitable as per the requirements and budget.
- Creation of virtual avatar
- Set up a recording space
- Practice the avatar character’s movements and expressions
- Start content production
- Engage with audience
How it Works
Create a virtual Avatar
The creation of a virtual avatar or character is the first step in the process of becoming a VTuber. 3D modeling software, already existing software, or tools made for the purpose are used to create an avatar.
Motion Capture Technology
The virtual avatar is animated with the use of motion capture technology. This entails tracking the movements of the person operating the avatar using sensors and cameras that enable the virtual character to replicate movements in real-time.
Audience Engagement
The distinctive characteristic of VTubing is the virtual avatar’s capacity to engage the audience in real conversations. The audience interaction can be improved using voice recognition software or chat to reply to audience members’ remarks and inquiries.
Brand Establishment
The brand establishment process is similar to other forms of content creation. The capability of becoming a successful VTuber depends on the ability to build a reputable brand. This creates a distinctive characteristic and produces material that is appealing to the target audience.
Conclusion: Considerations Before Becoming a VTuber
There are a few considerations that need to be considered before becoming a VTuber.
The creator should be very interested in producing content and connecting with an audience. It is important to be involved in the process.
The creator should be careful about hiding the real image and identity, as they should portray themselves through avatars.
The generation and animation of an avatar require certain technical skills. Developers must have a basic understanding of the required technology and software.
It can be a highly competitive industry so users should stand out from the crowd with a distinctive personality and a high quality of content.
FAQs
Which is the most popular VTuber?
The popular VTubers include Gawr Gura, Kizuna Ai, Mori Calliope, Usada Pekora, and Shirakami Fubaki.
What is the focus of VTuber?
The main focus of VTuber is on Brand identity by creating a virtual identity.
Why are VTubers so popular?
They are popular as they appeal to anime fans.
Andrew is a blockchain developer who developed his interest in cryptocurrencies while pursuing his post-graduation major in blockchain development. He is a keen observer of details and shares his passion for writing, along with coding. His backend knowledge about blockchain helps him give a unique perspective to his writing skills, and a reliable craft at explaining the concepts such as blockchain programming, languages and token minting. He also frequently shares technical details and performance indicators of ICOs and IDOs.
Source: https://www.thecoinrepublic.com/2024/02/11/vtuber-content-creation-using-virtual-avatars-and-identities/