Computer-generated imagery (CGI) is an animation technique in which images are created by computer software, rather than being shot on camera. This allows for the creation of special effects that would be impossible to achieve with traditional filmmaking techniques, such as simulating motion blur or rendering a naturalistic-looking sky (clouds). The quality of CGI can range from crudely rendered cartoons to photorealistic images indistinguishable from those produced by live-action cameras.

CGIs have been used in many areas including video games and movies since their inception in the early 1980s but they came into their own with Pixar’s animated film Toy Story (1995). Since then there has been a shift towards using CGIs instead of traditional hand-drawn animation techniques because they allow artists more significant control over how an image looks when compared with live-action film techniques where one person controls all aspects related to lighting/shading/camera movement etc.

Computer graphics are integral to the film industry and other creative fields. They've been around for decades but have recently become more advanced with new technologies and techniques. The use of artificial intelligence is allowing for faster animation creation at a lower cost, while better hardware is making it possible to create larger files without sacrificing quality. With all these advancements happening in one field, there are many exciting times ahead!