SUCCEEDING AS A VFX SUPERVISOR

Kristaan Cain delivers his expert advice

What skills and qualities are essential to being a VFX supervisor?

I think to be an effective supervisor it's important to learn all the disciplines that go into making CG shots. I've worked in all aspects of post-production and specialised in effects and lighting for a number of years, which has been hugely beneficial. Being able to know whether you can despill a shot or stabilise and remove easily is essential. Often these decisions will be put to you with the pressure of a whole crew waiting.

VFX supervision differs to CG, because it's much more involved with the production and client side. You'll need to understand camera lenses, lighting and have a solid understanding of compositing capabilities and workflows. On top of this, you'll need to be great at collaborating with clients who may or may not have an understanding of the CG aspect and always have in mind the schedule you'll be delivering to.

What advice can you give to artists that may want to become a VFX supervisor?

If you want to jump straight in, then one option is to shoot a few live-action shots and go through the process for experience. Find an aspiring filmmaker and offer to add some CG or 2D plate work. Set up a green screen, shoot some set data with a Theta and ensure you stick to the production schedule.

The more solid approach and the one I'd recommend however, would be to work for a film or advertising company as an artist, and speak with production and current VFX supervisors about a pathway within that organisation. It's important to remember, though, that VFX supervision is as much about 2D as it is 3D, so try to get broad experience within the industry.

How can artists get noticed by studios like Smoke & Mirrors or Big Buoy?

It definitely seems obvious, but apply whenever you're ready. Quite often we're not advertising for jobs but as we're a very busy studio, we are always looking for freelancers and entry positions when our current crew are overstretched. A few weeks on a job is a great way to show off your skills and can often lead to repeat and full-time work, so send in the reel!