You might have watched the latest “Dune” film, or perhaps “Venom: Let there be Carnage.” At the core of the film’s extraordinary graphics lie the VFX and CGI. VFX artists usually deal with such visual effects. They design and create digitally-generated imagery to further enhance the film’s attractiveness.
VFX artists use the latest technology and art to produce computer-generated creatures, crowds, and stunt doubles. Their work lies in the creation of an entire sci-fi civilization. They are also responsible for digital particle effects, which include fluid and fire and object and lighting manipulation.
What is VFX?
VFX or visual effects are the art of combining computer-generated imagery (CGI) with living motion footage. The footage is then used to create scenes that wouldn’t otherwise be possible. They are also added to video clips for creativity or correction purposes.
Nowadays, almost every type of film or TV production uses VFX to enhance its presentation quality. Artists who work with VFX are involved with working on a combination of creative and technical skill sets and strong artistic talent.
What does a VFX artist do?
VFX artists use their creativity and artistic talents to create Computer Generated Imagery (CGI). VFX artists can be further broken down into two types.
VFX specialists: These artists include artists specializing in certain animation or CGI topics, like 3D modeling or mapping. They work together with several other specialists in a large studio to complete a common project.
VFX generalist: Generalists are solo artists who know almost everything related to the subject. Essentially they are the jack of all trades but master of none. They are often responsible for producing every element of a VFX shot from start to finish all by themselves from their home or personal studio.
Types of VFX artists
VFX artistry has a high demand in the entertainment industry, from movies and animations to games. They are professionals when it comes to both 2D and 3D figures. When working as an expert, VFX artists have many important titles with a range of roles. Some of the more popular lines of VFX artists are:
- Compositing artist
- Effects Technical Director (TD)
- FX animator
- multimedia artist
- VFX artist
- VFX supervisor.
VFX artist skills
VFX artists need to have a good foundation in drawing and proficiency in graphics designing. Aside from that, they also need to acquire skills that will be useful in their career. Most VFX artists are good at:
- Drawing and sketching in various art styles.
- Have a good sense of what goes where- what lighting should be used, tone, and other color elements.
- Understanding of physics and math.
- Know some basic programming and can use software for content creation
- Can easily collaborate with other like-minded specialists.
- Have good time management personal skills to meet deadlines when the schedule is tight.
- Strong Photoshop editing skills.
- An eye for small, subtle details.
Responsibilities of a VFX artist
Being a VFX artist has its allures and perks. The work they work with is exotic and interesting; however, by no means is it easy. In fact, these artists always have a very busy schedule with deadlines just knocking around the corner.
Their main task is to help with creating special effects using state-of-the-art software. Every monster, fairy, ogre, space battle, and more imaginary creatures that you see in films are the works of visual effects artists.
Visual artists need to work hard. It is common for them not to get a blink of sleep when working on a specific project. They are no stranger to strict deadlines and an overworked career in their unhealthy life.
They need to work with the producer, lead artists, and supervisors to track and manage the workflow through the departments. One of their responsibilities is arranging rounds and meetings, taking notes, and following up on required information as it seems befitting. A lot of communication is involved with a career in VFX.
Most of all, VFX artists are expected to use top-of-the-line software and effects to create visual effects, get familiar with cameras, light, and microphones while keeping everything within the budget.
How to become a VFX artist?
Now that you are well-informed about what these artists work on and their responsibilities, you might as well be interested in becoming one. VFX artist is a very technical role and involves a lot of studies and skills.
Typically, the route to VFX is though becoming a compositor, concept artist, match mover, or in another area of graphics designing and game art. However, many have worked in a VFX studio for films and TV and directly moved on to the role of a VFX artist.
Qualifications
Most VFX artists have very high qualifications. They have mostly studied media, media production, media technology, graphic design, or photography. However, some basic knowledge of physics, math, and computer science are also required.
Portfolio
Like all majoring art students, a portfolio is vital when looking for a job. This portfolio will include some of the best work in the topics the artist specializes in.
Besides building a portfolio, networking and exposing your artwork to the public is a great option to receive a wide range of work choices, as art managers will recruit you.
Conclusion
A career in visual effects needs a lot of groundwork and effort. The work itself is, however, very worthwhile and fruitful. VFX first began in the late 1800s. Since then, it has become one of the most mainstream jobs for the young populace. It is also a career choice with a lot of perks and employability.
