Become
Visual Effects Specialist 2D/3D
In the world of computer-generated imagery, the FX artist mainly operates during the post-production stage. His goal : to put his skills at the service of image processing.
THE MISSIONS OF THE FX ARTIST
The 2D/CG FX artist is an illusionist, and computer software is his privileged tool.
What does a FX artist do? On his computer, he receives the raw images (real shots, animated sequences…) and adapts them according to the desires of the director who shares his ideas with him, his way of conceiving things, and follows him in the progression of his work.
At the heart of the service dedicated to a film’s, a video game’s or an advertising’s VFX, he is entrusted with missions that are often very diverse. The FX artist is a versatile creator who gives a real appearance to unreal things.
Designing fictitious sets, deleting a detail that the director does not want to see on the screen, creating a character straight out of the scriptwriters’ imagination, creating an explosion, the illusion of a landscape with striking realism… His range of possibilities is extensive. The efficiency of his work and the success of his projects will depend on his finesse of detail and his ability to appropriate the ideas of his collaborators.
HIS KNOW-HOW, HIS KNOWLEDGE
This very creative technician, endowed with a strong imagination, works most of his time behind his computer.
An FX artist usually has a good knowledge of the audiovisual world in general and important technical and software skills, an expertise that can be acquired through a course in a school of applied arts such as ESMA.
The FX artist must be able to rely on a good general knowledge.
Often in the animation or video game industry, deadlines are very short, therefore the need for reactivity, vivacity and a good capacity to adapt are essential for the FX artist.
With the progress of IT and technology, the profession is constantly evolving. Thus, the FX artist needs to keep up to date with the latest techniques.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES
The FX artist has specific skills, and production companies are demanding this specialist, who can also combine his activity with editing.
FX artists are able to bring a new artistic dimension to the projects they collaborate on. Production companies and the video game industry currently offer the major opportunities.
Even though his status depends on the structure that employs him, the FX artist is more often an occasional worker than a salaried employee.
The average salary of a beginner is about 2000€ gross per month.