Compositor
What is it ? Constructing the final image by combining layers of previously-created material, including rendered computer animation, special effects, graphics, 2D animation, live action and static background plates
Requirements / How to become it?
To be a Compositor, it will help you to have a degree in an art-related subject, such as animation, design, illustration, painting, drawing, photography or computer animation.
Concept Artist
What is it ?
- producing the illustrations that help Production Designers realise their vision
- making sure their drawings are accurate and clear and adapting them as necessary during filming
- using computer illustration software packages
Requirements / How to become it?
There is no typical career route to becoming a Concept Artist. You could start off as a Graphic Artist, Illustrator or Graphic Novelist. Otherwise, you can work in special or visual effects or animation and make the transition to Concept Artist via storyboarding.
The layout artist (3d computer animation)
What is it ?
- Breaking down 2D storyboards into 3D shots
- Staging every shot and plotting the action that will take place within each scene
- Ensuring that everything that is going to be animated is set up properly
Requirements / How to become it?
One of the routes to this role is to have honed your artistic talent and gained skills in the relevant software in a previous role. This could include working as a designer, illustrator, sculptor, Storyboard Artist among other roles.
Lighting technical director or lighter
What is it ?
- Ensuring there is consistency in lighting, colour balance and mood between the various elements of a shot or scene
- Making sure the computer-generated imagery looks photorealistic to match the live action
- Adding the lighting that creates atmosphere, and adds realism, tone and depth to a scene
Requirements / How to become it?
There are several levels of Lighting TD/Lighter from junior through to a Senior Technical Director or Supervisor. This job profile relates to a mid-level grade.
There is no traditional route you can take into the lighting department. However, it is unlikely that you will get a job in this department when you are just starting out.
Match move artist
What is it ?
Translating and imitating the camera movements in live action shots and matching those movements in 3D computer animations
Requirements / How to become it?
To be a Match Move Artist, it is likely you will need to gain a degree in a 3D discipline, such as computer graphics or computer animation.
Roto Artist
What is it ?
- Tracing the areas of live action frames where computer graphics will overlap or interact with live image
- Creating clear areas (mattes) within the frame to allow all elements of the scene to be layered convincingly by the Compositor
Requirements / How to become it?
This can be an entry-level job, straight from university or if you have been a Runner and gained the relevant skills and experience. Roto Artist is the most junior role in the compositing department.
Producer (VFX)
What is it ?
- Keeping the project running efficiently, on-time and to a high standard
- Ensuring the project stays within budget
Requirements / How to become it?
Producers are usually hired based on previous experience. It’s a role for people who know a great deal about the process as a whole, as they are required to make decisions for every process of production.
The route to becoming an Producer will usually start as an animator, modeller or other technical artist. By showing hard-work, dedication, knowledge, and a flair for leadership and organisation, becoming a Producer wouldn’t be too much of a challenge down the road.
Runner (VFX)
What is it ?
- Providing support to the VFX artists
- Ensuring the studio atmosphere remains positive
Requirements / How to become it?
Runners are an entry level position, and the best way to get a job as one is to apply. VFX Studios will be looking for ambitious people who are willing to learn and eventually progress up the company, so remaining confident in your interview is key. Placements can be anywhere from a few days to a few months, and it can pay to get experience in both small and large studios before deciding on your next move.
VFX Supervisor
What is it ?
- Evaluating which part of a production will need visual effects
- Ensuring the VFX shots are filmed correctly on set
- Negotiating with the production crew and budget to discuss the feasibility of the VFX work
- Leading a team of artists to see the final VFX shots to fruition
Requirements / How to become it?
VFX Supervisors have typically gained a lot of previous VFX experience before transitioning as a supervisor. Many graduates will enter junior roles in small companies before transitioning into VFX Supervisors. Some move up from junior on-set roles after spending time in the tracking, scanning or rotoscoping departments.
A strong technical background is key, though the position itself will need a creative flair.
Layout artist
What is it ?
- Breaking down 2D storyboards into 3D shots
- Staging every shot and plotting the action that will take place within each scene
- Ensuring that everything that is going to be animated is set up properly
Requirements / How to become it?
There is no typical career route you can follow. One of the routes to this role is to have honed your artistic talent and gained skills in the relevant software in a previous role. This could include working as a designer, illustrator, sculptor, Storyboard Artist among other roles.
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