Final answer:
James Cameron delayed the production of Avatar due to technological limitations at the time, waiting for substantial advancements in CGI, the availability of the Fusion 3-D Camera System, and improvements in digital recording technology, which were critical in bringing his vision to life.
Step-by-step explanation:
James Cameron delayed production on his Avatar films for several reasons, primarily due to technological constraints. According to a Popular Mechanics article, Cameron conceived the idea for Avatar in the mid-1990s but chose to wait over a decade before moving into production because the technology at the time was not advanced enough to fulfill his vision. Notably, advancements in CGI - Computer Generated Imagery, which is a form of computer technology that creates shapes and characters in a film, have revolutionized filmmaking, allowing filmmakers to eliminate many issues and significantly speed up the production process.
Another technological advance that played a crucial role was the development of 3-D films. Although 3-D films have existed for decades, recent technology has made them more realistic and engaging. The Fusion 3-D Camera System, which was not available until 2009, was critical in bringing Cameron's vision for Avatar to life, showcasing the potential of 3-D cinematography in creating immersive experiences for viewers.
Moreover, the evolution of digital recording technology and the need for specific lighting technologies were also factors that influenced the timeline of Avatar's production. These technological advancements allowed Cameron and his team to capture and realize the exceptional world of Avatar. Finally, although not explicitly stated in the provided references, but an important part in the history of film, is the digital revolution which includes improvements in motion capture animation, digital recording, and camera technologies which all contributed to the ability to produce sophisticated visual effects as seen in Avatar.