Identify what is specific to the software and what is universal across different platforms . Explore the interface and menus in order to build a mental map of where the different parameters are located . Learn the input and output functions first ( i . e import and render , etc .)
HEAD OF CG AT OUTPOST VFX
It is best to approach any software with an open mindset and remember the process / technique more than the names of the tools , as tools evolve and become obsolete . The underlying fundamentals and theory would remain the same . So , it is recommended to learn the fundamentals such as anatomy , weights , physical properties of materials , basic physics , colour theory , perspectives , basics of lights and shadows , design theory , composition , etc . and apply them judiciously to the software .
VFX TRAINERS AT ILM LONDON
Pick a ‘ real ’ and specific project or problem to work on , and do that well . Use professional footage and show how you could quickly add value to a production with scenarios like ‘ replace that greenscreen ’ or ‘ add snow to this shot ’. There are plenty of free comp elements available online , so don ’ t overcomplicate , compromise quality or try to do everything from scratch in a shot - in the professional industry you very rarely do everything .
HEAD OF PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY AT JELLYFISH PICTURES
Find a tutorial , and then try and go beyond it to do something that interests you . For example - when I was learning Maya I decided to try and recreate the giant rolling ball scene from Fight Club . My version looked like garbage , obviously , but I learned a lot about different bits of the application .
CTO AT BLUEBOLT
ADVICE FOR
VFX
STUDENTS
WHAT IS YOUR ADVICE TO STUDENTS LOOKING TO LEARN VFX SOFTWARE ?
Identify what is specific to the software and what is universal across different platforms . Explore the interface and menus in order to build a mental map of where the different parameters are located . Learn the input and output functions first ( i . e import and render , etc .)
OWEN JONES
HEAD OF CG AT OUTPOST VFX
It is best to approach any software with an open mindset and remember the process / technique more than the names of the tools , as tools evolve and become obsolete . The underlying fundamentals and theory would remain the same . So , it is recommended to learn the fundamentals such as anatomy , weights , physical properties of materials , basic physics , colour theory , perspectives , basics of lights and shadows , design theory , composition , etc . and apply them judiciously to the software .
ANANDH RAMESH AND DAVI STEIN
VFX TRAINERS AT ILM LONDON
Pick a ‘ real ’ and specific project or problem to work on , and do that well . Use professional footage and show how you could quickly add value to a production with scenarios like ‘ replace that greenscreen ’ or ‘ add snow to this shot ’. There are plenty of free comp elements available online , so don ’ t overcomplicate , compromise quality or try to do everything from scratch in a shot - in the professional industry you very rarely do everything .
PAUL BAASKE
HEAD OF PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY AT JELLYFISH PICTURES
Find a tutorial , and then try and go beyond it to do something that interests you . For example - when I was learning Maya I decided to try and recreate the giant rolling ball scene from Fight Club . My version looked like garbage , obviously , but I learned a lot about different bits of the application .
TOM MAWBY
CTO AT BLUEBOLT
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