RUNNER
A runner is commonly known as an entry level position in the VFX studio. They partake in a variety of jobs, usually miscellaneous but vital to the smooth running of a production. This role is generally considered a good way to network within the VFX field, acting as a route into higher and more advanced artist roles. Some companies may assign mentors to runners in order to aid and train them. They undergo a variety of tasks, from delivering messages and material between departments, keeping the office/workspace tidy and working on clean up after productions. They make tea and coffee for staff members and do the general admin and miscellaneous jobs.
Requirements of a runner:
–Enthusiasm and motivation, must have an initial interest in VFX and keen to expand their knowledge and learn technical skills
–Deal well under pressure, having the ability to cope and adapt with project schedules and irregular hours.
–Reliability and organisation are key, this job requires time commitment and the ability to multitask
They tend to work with staff from all departments, acting as a liaison with different team members, in some cases they may also interact with studio clients. A formal education is not a requirement, but demonstration for a passion for VFX is crucial.
PREP ARTIST
A prep artist does the preparatory work for a compositor, primarily cleaning up backgrounds of live-action footage, ready for effects to be added. The plates they work with are backgrounds only, without characters or foreground figures. They use specialist software’s such as nuke, to remove unwanted elements in the frame and are usually employed by a VFX firm, although freelance work is also possible.
Requirements of a prep artist:
–Skilled at art and design, they must have an eye for realism to create accurate work
–Patience is needed as the work is tedious and thorough and may take some time.
–Organisation and time management are skills required by a prep artist, they must work to strict deadlines and able to work under pressure.
Prep artists generally work closely with compositors and roto artists, so much so that in some companies the role of prep and roto artists may be combined. This job is also considered an entry level role, which helps to build a portfolio and illustrate technical abilities, it is usually preferred if you have a degree in graphic design or a related course.
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/visual-effects-vfx/compositing/prep-artist/
ROTO ARTIST
Roto artists undertake a process known as ‘rotoscoping’, in which they manually draw and cut out objects from a frame or shot. This is done so that the rest of the image can be used as required, creating silhouettes known as roto mattes. They work on footage where CG elements are overlayed or interacted with the live-action film.Rotoscoping can involve many frames, or just one, and can be repetitive and painstaking work, therefore attention to detail is imperative. If the camera is moving, all relevant areas of each frame will be traced so the CG elements can be combined accurately onto the shot.
Requirements of a roto artist:
–Accurate drawing skills are needed to produce efficient tracing and pick up complex software
-Patience is also required to work methodically through the footage
–Working well under pressure to produce high-quality final images whilst adhering to strict deadlines.
These artists work closely with compositors and prep artists, providing the mattes and preparing plates for them both. This role can also be considered an entry-level position, that requires patience and is tedious, it develops skills that will be useful to advance into higher positions. To become a roto artis you must have a showreel to demonstrate your capability, you may need a formal degree specific to the VFX industry.
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/visual-effects-vfx/compositing/roto-artist/
https://www.cgspectrum.com/career-pathways/roto-artist
