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How to become
VFX Artist
Who is a VFX Artist?
In the audiovisual and digital content production industry, the VFX artist’s role is increasingly relevant. These professionals are responsible for the creation of visual effects through the use of advanced software and tools that are indispensable for creating fantastic scenarios, animated characters and action sequences. From the most classic explosions to the lighting of dreamlike environments, each of these elements can be digitally shaped.
What do VFX artists do?
A VFX artist’s work can be divided into stages. First of all, there is the project’s pre-production, in cooperation with a creative team. Here, aesthetic and technical objectives are defined, analysing the tasks and challenges. Next, the concept is defined through sketches and storyboards, to visualise the visual effects’ final output. Once approval is obtained, we move on to the visual elements’ actual creation, with 3D graphics, animation and compositing software. Characters, objects, environments and special effects are manipulated and integrated into the main shot. This is followed by composition and editing. The various visual elements are treated organically by managing light, shadow, colour and perspective to ensure visual harmony and convincing realism. The work is concluded by post-production and editing, to perfection the sequences.
What skills do VFX artists need?
VFX artists must have specific technical skills and a thorough visual culture to make a valid contribution. Below is a list of the main skills.
Knowledge of VFX software: some of the main programmes used are Autodesk Maya, Adobe After Effects, Nuke, Houdini.
Artistic skills: knowledge of the principles of design, composition, lighting and colouring is necessary to create convincing visual effects.
Communication skills: ability to communicate effectively with creative teams and understand a project’s needs in order to face technical challenges and find creative solutions.
How to become a VFX artist?
Academic training is a necessary step to pursue a career as VFX artist. A good course of study lays the foundations of animation, digital design, computer graphics or film production. At the same time, you can start to get familiar with the VFX software listed in the previous paragraph. The Three-year BA programme in Creative Technologies at NABA teaches students how to create virtual effects, characters and environments for audiovisual projects. The Milan campus is also equipped with a virtual production studio for the development of real-time VFX and character design. The skills acquired can be perfected during the Two-year Specialisation Course in Creative Media Production.
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Three-year course in Creative Technologies
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Two-year Specialisation Course in Creative Media Production