Industry
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I have gathered information on what I would like to work with in the future. To get into the VFX industry I would need to work an entry level job, then later I can have other jobs as well that requires more experience within the industry.
As an entry level job, I could see myself working as a texture artist, a runner or an environment artist. I find texturing and modeling quite interesting. Although I do not have a lot of experience yet, it is one of the things I want to work on.
Entry level jobs
Texture artists make surfaces look realistic on computer-generated (CG) 3D models.
They rough objects up or they make them shine – scales on a crocodile’s skin, reflections on car doors, skid marks on roads, creases in trousers.
Runners are all-purpose helpers in a VFX studio. They support any and all members in the studio and make sure that everyone has what they need. Runners do a variety of jobs. They deliver materials and messages between departments. They organise meetings and schedules. They keep the office clean and tidy and might work on reception or be responsible for locking up. They also make a lot of tea and coffee. They do whatever professional task needs doing.
Environment artists create the computer-generated places in which actors move. They make galaxies, lunar landscapes and desecrated cities – any environment that it’s too difficult to film in real life.
Final VFX role
My goal is to become an FX artist. This role is not listed in the ScreenSkills list of VFX roles, but I know that there are positions where VFX artists created simulations like fire, water, smoke and cloth simulations for VFX studios. At the ScreenSkills site, the role as FX TD is listed as someone who creates simulations, but it also says that they build and test software tools, which is not what I intend to do. I did however, find great information about FX artists at the cgspectrum site. They have courses for learning Houdini, which is a great tool for simulations. There is however a VFX role within the games pipeline that describes the job I want. I do believe this to be a role in the VFX as well, as I have seen many use FX artist to describe the job role they have.
FX artist
An FX artist creates visual effects in movies, TV shows, and video games. They're responsible for creating smoke, fire, destruction, water, as well as smaller effects such as objects colliding or liquid simulations in a glass.
The goal of an FX artist is to create seamless effects so the audience doesn’t think about the fact that the effects are computer-generated. This can take countless hours of research into real-life phenomena, watching reference videos, and even building new tools for teams to use. FX artists are essential in today’s entertainment business as most films, TV shows and games require digital effects.
A day in the life of a FX artist
Work varies between artists, projects, and studios, but there are common threads in the visual effects pipeline. Typically, a project is handed down from a VFX supervisor. Depending on the size of the project and timeline, the artist spends a certain amount of time researching. This could involve watching documentary clips, reference videos, and researching the properties and materials of elements in a scene to ensure a realistic end result.
Depending on the team size, an FX artist may have to be focused on different disciplines. At bigger companies, the artist will likely be focused strictly on the effect or simulation. For example, when tackling a complex shot such as a spaceship crash in a movie like Captain America: The Winter Soldier, there may have been an entire team of people working on different simulations to add to the shots. At smaller companies, you would likely be asked to set up a render as well. A good FX artist knows how to set up materials and lights to match the desired outcome of the director.
How to become a FX artist
A successful FX artist translates real-world physical properties into a digital simulation with ease. This ability takes time and proper FX training, so don’t be discouraged. The best way to build up your skills is to learn FX software, such as SideFX's Houdini, and experiment with each of the settings.
In addition, you should develop a good understanding of the behavior of fire, smoke, liquids, solids, and gases.
Artists I want to contact
FX TD Job Description
FX TDs they set up systems for creating simulations, and find and test tools for FX artists to use.
Responsibilities:
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Writes language scrips that generates the desired effects
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Tests software and tools
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Create effects and sims
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Finding the best ways to approach a problem
Essential Skills:
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Houdini
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They need to understand how elements like wind, water etc behaves in real life to be able to make realistic sims
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Good understanding of the VFX pipeline
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Good communication skills
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Being able to work with others
Desirable Skills:
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Python and VEX
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Lighting and comping
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An understanding of the workflow of other VFX roles
Environment TD Job Description
Environment TD's create the environment for shots. they re realistic looking and can be matte paintings or 3D environments.
Responsibilities:
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Creating matte paintings
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Realistic lighting
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Create realistic textures
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Create realistic models
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Finding the best ways to approach a problem
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Mentoring and or training new artists within the company
Essential Skills:
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Compositing skills
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Knowledge of 3D software
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Photoshop
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Good understanding of the VFX pipeline
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Good communication skills
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Being able to work with others
Desirable Skills:
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Photography backround
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An understanding of the workflow of other VFX roles
Industry Professionals Presentation
