The movie just got over. While everyone’s leaving, you’re seated tight. While some stare at you, wondering if there is some secret post-credits you’re waiting for, they have no clue that you’re eager to see the “real credits.” The names of the real heroes that pop up after the directors, producers, actors, dolly grips, etc. – the “visual effects” section. This is where the movie screen turns into a wall of scrolling names, thanks to the massive amount of VFX, CG, and 3D artists required to make a film today.
What people don’t see is the sheer dedication and skills it takes to get your name up there. If you’re a budding VFX artist or someone looking to pursue this profession, you too will need a portfolio of abilities to succeed. On paper, these skills include storyboarding, composting, motion graphics, digital photography, 3D essentials, etc., and fluency in software like Adobe Creative Suite, UX wireframes, JavaScript, and so on. However, there’s more to it. So, here are the top skills you will require for a career in VFX: –
- Fluency in 3D animation software
Knowledge about the top 3D animation software is a must-have for any VFX professional today. Remember the legendary moment when the Avengers fought Thanos? Or the magnificent dragons in Game of Thrones? These are possible because of 3D animation software, which has garnered massive demand in the past few years. If you wish to do VFX, polishing your 3D animation knowledge and abilities is a must!
- A proficient hardware operator
Simply possessing software skills and a VFX certification isn’t enough to excel in this field. You must also know how to operate cameras seamlessly, use its related equipment, record audio through various microphones (being well-versed about tones, modulations, etc. is key!), shoot crips videos, use different lightings in multiple scenarios, and more. Let’s just say there’s always more to learn in VFX, but being good at hardware functionalities is paramount.
- Being a team player
As a VFX artist, you must hold strong communication skills. More often than not, you’ll be collaborating with designers, various engineers, producers, and most importantly, the clients. Being a fluid communicator, you’ll not only get the job done quicker but also build a lucrative network to seize the right opportunities when they arrive. You can’t be Da Vinci sitting alone in his room to draw the Mona Lisa if becoming a successful VFX artist is your goal.
- High Adaptability Quotient (AQ)
Adaptability Quotient (AQ) is a popular terminology being thrown around these days. It’s quickly become a sought-after skill by most employers and plays an equally important role in VFX. Establishing a career in VFX will require you to adapt and overcome changing circumstances. If we talk on broader terms, these are the three key areas you must ace to have immense adaptability:
- Critical thinking – identifying, analyzing, adapting to any change in VFX work requirements or workflows, along with thinking independently and reflectively to stand out as a VFX artist.
- Flexibility – being open to change and flexible, which will help you remain grounded amidst chaos and operate efficiently in your workplace. With this, you’ll undoubtedly establish yourself as a robust individual in the face of flux.
- Emotional regulation – looking at the big picture and putting your personal feelings aside for the greater good of a project. This is what will push you the farthest in your VFX career and make you a professional everyone wants to work with.
In conclusion
While VFX is a rewarding career option, you must master these skills to shine as a VFX artist. A pro tip – sign up for a reputed program such as the Pearl Academy VFX course to learn and hone all the relevant skills under a single roof. Get going!
