Escape Studios Careers Guide 2025 May 2025 | Page 26

LIGHTING ARTIST

A Lighting Artist adds authenticity, depth, realism and tone to a computer-generated scene through lighting, to match external elements. This can be done adjusting colour, placement, and intensity of computer-generated lights.
Lighting Artists use computer software and work with images photographed on set or at a location to illuminate the 3D objects to help bring the story to life. This involves a blend of artistry and scientific knowledge.
WHAT DO YOU NEED?
Experience using Maya and Arnold and / or Houdini and Mantra. A solid understanding of a VFX production. Good communication skills. The ability to troubleshoot and solve problems independently. Some generalist VFX skills would be valuable. A knowledge of how to effectively use colour, light and setting for storytelling purposes. Technical and artistic skills.
HOW CAN YOU GET THERE?
With some experience you will be able to start your career as a Junior Lighting Artist, or with less experience you’ ll be able to start as a Runner, working up towards a Roto Artist or Matchmover, and then pursue a career as Lighting Artist.
SALARY GUIDE
Junior- Mid Level: £ 29,000 – £ 43,000 Mid Level- Senior: £ 45,000 – £ 58,000
( source: glassdoor)
RELEVANT COURSES INCLUDE
VMA Visual Effects Production( Compositing / 3D) – 3D Pathway Visual Effects( 14 weeks) BA( Hons)/ MArt The Art of Video Games MA Game Art Game Art( 14 / 21 weeks) BSc( Hons)/ MSci Video Games Design MSc Games Design BSc( Hons)/ MSci Technical Art for Games & VFX MSc Technical Art for Games and VFX
Escape Studios student project – Abbas Ishtiaq
14 YOUR GUIDE TO THE SCREEN INDUSTRIES