Special effects in the context of film or theater production are elements added to enhance the visual experience for the audience. In the given options, elaborate costumes are not typically considered special effects. Special effects usually refer to techniques like creating fires or explosions, using computer-generated imagery for effects like wire removal, implementing color correction to enhance or alter the colors in a scene, and more. Elaborate costumes, although visually impactful, are generally categorized as part of the costume design rather than special effects. So, the answer to the question is:
c. elaborate costumes
Elaborate costumes contribute to the visual appeal of a production but are distinct from the technical effects used to create illusions or enhance scenes.
