RIGGING TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
The rigging technical director creates the digital skeletons for CG models, they programme these in order to be animated in a realistic and believable fashion, they are known and ‘rigs’. These TD’s receive static 3D models, which they work on to figure out the correct hierarchy and skeleton to replicate realistic human movement. Animators then test the rigs and provide feedback to the rigging technical directors, this method continues until the 3D puppets are sufficient for production. This role can either work freelance or be employed by a company.
Requirements of a rigging technical director:
–Advanced programming and coding skills particularly in Python and C++, their technical skills must be very high
–Problem-solving abilities enable a rigging technical director to find solutions to issues quickly, and support other departments such as modellers and animators.
–Works well under pressure and able to adhere to strict deadlines
–Collaborative skills are needed in order to efficiently work back and forth with other departments
-clear understanding of anatomy, in order to accurately create skeletons that can be animates successfully
A rigging TD works under a VFX supervisor, and regularly communicated with the production management team and modelling/animating artists. Experience is required for this profession, with a good development of technical skills and strong knowledge in relevant software, such as Maya and Houdini.
CREATURE TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
A creature technical director specialises in software associated with creatures, such as fur, feathers and skin. They are responsible for the setting up and running of animation rigs, and simultaneously must be able to solve creature asset and pipeline issues proficiently. Depending on the size of the studio a creature TD’s role varies, sometimes including rigging as well as the realistic creature aesthetics. It is important to create believable and realistic work, to convincingly merge with live-action footage.
Requirements of a creature technical director:
–A keen eye for design is required in order to create and sculpt realistic assets
–Problem solving skills ensure that a creature TD can work efficiently and can overcome any technical issues they may face.
–Collaboration and communication is necessary in order to work with other VFX artists, and use each other’s resources well.
–Understand software and able to pick up skills quickly. A creater TD must be able to use Linux or Unix operating systems as well as being proficient in scripting languages such as Python and C++
–Working to deadlines and within given time frames is a necessary requirement
Creature TD’’s report to both CG and VFX supervisors, and works closely with other VFX artist working on creatures. This is considered a more senior role, so a few years experience is usually necessary.
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VFX PRODUCER
A VFX producer manages the process of creating VFX for entertainment. They communicate with the client and ensure that they are happy with the work. They persuade the film/tv producer to take on their VFX studio for the project by writing a ‘bid’. They put together the team of VFX artists and technical staff, manage the budget and set the schedules. Working closely on set with the live-action crew, VFX producers also work in pors production with the editors. They communicate between these people to ensure a seamless production takes place, and most importantly ensure the studio completes the project in sufficient time and to a high standard.
Requirements of a VFX producer:
–Leadership skills are needed to ensure confident direction is given as well as clear and helpful communication between teams
–Knowledge of the VFX pipeline helps with the understanding of all roles in the field, and therefore makes it easier to understand and advise with any creative challenges that may come up
–Organisation skills are necessary in order to efficiently manage the project
VFX producers communicate with the producer and director on the job, they also work closely with the VFX supervisor, who overlooks the creative work. This is a senior position that requires a lot of experience to obtain, usually coming from junior roles and working up into management.
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PRODUCTION MANAGER
A production manager is in charge of organizing the production of the film/show’s visual effects. They create a schedule for the project and oversee the budget, they act on the decisions of the VFX producer. The production manager looks over the work of the production coordinator, who may be involved in casting and hiring artists. They communicate with VFX artists and TD’s from different departments. Another important role is liaising with the producer of the live-action filming.
Requirements of a production manager:
–Organisation and communication are key in order to efficiently oversee other members of the VFX team and adhere to strict deadlines
–Leadership qualities are needed to give direction and create a positive working environment
–Knowledge of VFX pipeline is also imperative, in order to correctly oversee and understand all aspects of the industry
–Problem-solving abilities are important in order to anticipate any oncoming issues and successfully adapt to changing technical challenges
This role works under the VFX producer, whilst managing other more junior roles. Starting off as a VFX runner is a good route into becoming a production manager.