We introduce new approaches of modeling and synthesizing realistic-looking 2D fire
animations using video-based techniques and statistical analysis. Our approaches are based
on real footage of various small-scale fire samples with customized motions that we captured
for this research, and the final results can be utilized as a sequence of images in video games,
motion graphics and cinematic visual effects. Instead of conventional physically-based
simulation, we utilize example-based principal component analysis (PCA) and take it to a
new level by introducing “Eigenfires”, as a new way to represent the main features of
various real fire samples. The visualization of Eigenfires helps animators to design the fire
interactively through a more meaningful and convenient way in comparison to known
procedural approaches or other video-based synthesis models. Our system enables artists to
control real-life fire videos through motion transitions and loops by selecting any desired
ranges of any video clips and then the system takes care of the remaining part that best
represent a smooth transition. Instead of tricking the eyes with a basic blending only between
similar shapes, our flexible fire transitions are capable of connecting various fire styles. Our
techniques are also effective for data compressions, they can deliver real-time interactive
recognition for high resolution images, very easy to implement, and requires little parameter
tuning.