Your career after a course in VFX

There are some basic differences between Animation and VFX technology. Animation uses 3D software such as Maya or 3D Studio Max to create animated characters and environments that are then blended together by Animation Compositors to produce a shot.

Visual Effects uses same tools and methods but to create elements that are photorealistic and go well with live action. A classic example of an Animation movie would be ‘Shrek' while a typical VFX movie would be ‘2012'. VFX is considered a much more complex skill to bring the feel of ‘reality' as CGI is blended with real-life action.

Eligibility

In the field of Visual Effects, you need to master tools and programs such as Flame, Shake and Nuke. Of course, creativity and artistic training helps you create those real-world-like effects with all the subtle details. You also need to have a good grip on latest compositing techniques in the market such as motion tracking, multi-pass CGI compositing, and bluescreen keying.

Diploma and degree programmes offering specialised modules in VFX that integrate more on-the-floor training are necessary to make a career in the field. Good institutes help students to develop impressive portfolios and assist on real-world projects in their studios. Most institutes accept students who have done their class 12th, on the basis of their artistic talent.

Career Prospects

Though not as popular as in international markets, VFX industry in India is growing. Visual Effects has several components and there is demand for experts in each of these components. Some of the popular VFX arenas include Painting, 3D Animation, Camera Tracking, Rotoscoping, Rendering and Compositing.

Historically, Visual Effects have been very expensive. But in the recent past, more and more movie producers have adopted VFX as a story-telling tool and hence, the cost of Visual Effects has come down.The lower costs have got the attention of international film producers too and they have also started tapping into the talented pool of VFX professionals in India.

In general, talented Visual Effects experts who have the right technical skills and artistically endowed are much in demand and are paid handsomely. While in America, the VFX work has mostly shifted to freelancers; in India there is still a tendency to hire permanent staff. As the number of VFX professionals in India grows, there is a high chance that freelance projects for VFX will also increase.