VFX SUPERVISOR
A VFX supervisor overlooks the whole VFX project, they manage the pipeline and other artists and have the ultimate responsibility for all the work produced by the company. They are the main liaison between director and the VFX studio, and are working on projects from the very early pre-production stages. They oversee and work with VFX artists to create prototype materials to send back and forth with art directors, to inform the style of production wanted.
VFX supervisors are present during filming to ensure a seamless transition to the VFX artists, enabling each shot to be satisfactory and ready to be worked on before all the live-footage is complete. They lead their team and oversea all quality of work.
Requirements of a VFX supervisor:
–Leadership qualities are needed to ensure all artists are working well and efficiently, and that the VFX pipline is organised and sticks to schedule
–An eye for aesthetics is needed to ensure all the work produced is to an excellent quality
–Knowledge of software and photography, such as understanding cameras and lenses and the correct software needed
– A collaborative ability is required in order to work efficiently with the director and producer
This role is the highest role in a VFX company, and therefore is considered a very senior job. It requires experience in more junior roles for a number of years. Overall building the visual aesthetic and imagination together, this role ultimately oversees the vision of the project from inception to completion.
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/visual-effects-vfx/on-set/vfx-supervisor/
https://nofilmschool.com/vfx-supervisor
DATA CAPTURE TECHNITIAN
A data capture technician (TDs) collect information regarding live-action footage that VFX artists would need in the studio in order to add the visual effects. They primarily take photographs on set from the same perspective as the cameras, and note down information about the lens, focal length and colour temperature etc. They record the textures on set and all necessary information that may be needed, using specialist equipment, then upload all the data and back it up before sending to the relevant VFX members.
Requirements for a data capture technician:
–Accuracy is required to perform methodical work, and pay close attention to detail
–Technical knowledge is also needed, with in-depth understanding of cameras and relevant equipment.
–Efficiency ensures that the work gets done quickly, in an organised manner.
They work with camera trainees and operators on set, and with the VFX supervisors and matchmove artists to ensure that the actors and set are prepared so the footage can be easily used when needed. Data capture technicians tend to have a few years experience, working within the camera department.
https://www.screenskills.com/job-profiles/browse/visual-effects-vfx/on-set/data-capture-technician/
https://www.zippia.com/data-entry-technician-jobs/
COMPOSITOR
A compositor creates the final look of a shot, combining all the assets and material made by other VFX artists in order to produce a cohesive composition that looks realistic. They work at the end of the VFX pipeline and consider all the visual aspects of the footage, such as lighting and colour to ensure a seamless aesthetic. Compositors play a crucial role, dealing with complex imaged and special effects to achieve a believable final image.
Requirements of a compositor:
–An eye for design is needed in order to create a realistic and aesthetic final shot, regarding the light, composition and colour.
–Collaboration is needed to work well with other artists, and share work effectively.
–Knowledge of software is also imperative, particularly compositing programs such as Nuke, After Effects and Houdini etc.
–Time management skills ensure that work is completed to deadlines and under pressure
Compositors work with roto and prep artists, and lighting technical directors. A showreel demonstrating strong abilities in compositing is needed, although many compositors progress from more junior roles such as a runner.
https://www.cgspectrum.com/career-pathways/compositor
COMPOSITING SUPERVISOR
Composting supervisors manage the compositors and check the quality and continuity of the footage. They are experienced in composting themselves and understand the methods of integrating CG images into live-action footage, whilst overseeing VFX artists and ensuring they meet the required deadlines. These supervisors are not freelance, and are employed by VFX studios. They also accurately predict cost and schedules, and work with others in production to solve any technical issues that may arise.
Requirements of a composting supervisor:
–Knowledge of photography and photo-realism, and a clear understanding of cameras and cinematography
–Organisation and communication are needed to run the team efficiently and oversee that the project is done to the best standard
–Knowledge of software, particularly composting programmes are necessary in order to understand the work needed to be done
–An eye for detail is important to ensure all images appear realistic with the correct lighting, colour and composition
This profession works closely with the VFX supervisor and the CG supervisor in order to create cohesive work. This role is a senior one, that requires experience in a junior compositing job. A formal degree in a related course is also highly recommended.