Compositing
I found a skillset outline for a compositing job, which effectively indicates how I can achieve a successful visual effects sequence while proving my suitability for employment.
“Compositors work in most areas of animation and post production.
They are responsible for constructing the final image by combining layers of previously created material. Although it is primarily a 2D role within the 3D world of CGI and VFX (Visual Effects), Compositors need a thorough understanding of the CG process combined with relevant artistic skills.
In post production companies, some TDs (Technical Directors) may do their own compositing.
What is the job?
Compositors work at the end of the production process. They receive material from various sources which could include rendered computer animation, special effects, graphics, 2D animation, live action, static background plates, etc.
Their job is to creatively combine all the elements into the final image, ensuring that the established style of the project is respected and continuity is maintained.
To achieve this they enhance the lighting, match blacks and other colour levels, add grain where required, add motion blur (if appropriate), create convincing shadows and make sure levels combine together seamlessly, keying (see glossary), rotoscoping and creating mattes where necessary.
They work closely with Lighters and need to have technical knowledge of how 3D lighting works in order to understand the 'multi passes' that the lighters create. They also liaise closely with Render Wranglers to progress work through the department.
Compositors need the talent to make artistic judgements, the technical skills to take practical decisions and the ability to analyse and solve problems.
Key Skills include:
- extensive knowledge of current compositing software such as Shake and After Effects;
- knowledge of various other programmes including Photoshop;
- understanding of 3D animation process, particularly Lighting;
- a good eye for composition, colour, light and shadow;
- good knowledge of keying process;
- methodical and thorough approach to work, and attention to detail;
- ability to communicate with colleagues and work as part of a team;
- ability to take direction and willingness to address comments and make changes;
- ability to work with a minimum of supervision;
- ability to deliver on schedule, working under pressure if required;
- respect for the procedures and requirements of a particular studio, production or pipeline;
- Knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures”
http://www.skillset.org/animation/careers/article_4926_1.asp
Show-reel Criteria
While searching for suitable showreel criteria I found a handy list of showreel tips on Double Negative Visual Effects' recruitment page (http://www.dneg.com/jobs).
While these are only the opinions of one visual effects company, they will prove very useful to consider when creating my own showreel to send to companies.
- Firstly, and most importantly, please ensure that your showreel is on a playable DVD video, not in quicktimes, and that it is working correctly. Print out your CV/resume and post this in with your reel and a breakdown sheet that highlights exactly what parts of the shots on the reel are yours. Just in case these get separated, make sure that your DVD also has your name and contact information on it - please add this in permanent marker, as a sticker can cause the DVD to jump.
- We only want to see the work that you're truly proud of. Ideally, the reel shouldn't be much longer 2 minutes for graduates and 3 minutes for experienced professionals (although this is only a guideline) and your best work should be at the start of the DVD. If you are a recent graduate, make sure that you put a snappy montage of your best bits of work on there, please don't just send in your final year project.
- Where possible, add in breakdowns and passes for your shots - ie. If you are a Modeller, add the topology to your render and if you have a compositing showreel, show roto mattes and before and after breakdowns so that we can see how you work. It can also be helpful in 3D to show your UV layouts, and also displacement maps as well.
- Don't spend too much time editing your reel to music - we watch most reels on mute as we're only interested in the images!
Justification of choices made
My desired job would involve 3D modelling and animation, so I have made this the focus of my visual effects sequence while still meeting the requirement of integrating digital elements with real world film. My aim is to make the model look and act as realistically and believably as possible and place this convincingly in my real world footage, which will require good modelling and animation skills as well as a good understanding of lighting and compositing techniques. When placed in my showreel I believe this sequence will show my suitability for employment in 3D Modelling, Animation and Visual Effects.
