Visual effects (VFX) artists combine technical and creative skills to generate digital imagery, which is seamlessly integrated with live-action footage – think anything from adjusting the lighting in a particular setting to creating mythical creatures and bringing them to life on screen.
Like all “cool” jobs, competition can be stiff, but it’s a thriving industry offering multiple pathways for specialisation. Let’s find out what it takes.
They can work in several industries, but here, we’re concentrating on film and television.
They use digital programmes to create complex visual effects, then combine that computer-generated (CG) art with live-action footage. It’s an expansive term covering many different roles, such as:
- FX animator
- Compositing artist
- Effects technical director (FX TD)
- Multimedia artist
- VFX supervisor
Far from only generating visual effects, VFX artists conceptualise and design images in collaboration with other production teams and their fellow VFX artists, supervisors, and developers. Some even travel to research locations or help shoot scenes to facilitate the addition of visual effects during postproduction.
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Research from the UK Screen Alliance estimates that the UK is home to more than 10,000 VFX artists employed full-time. “London houses six of the world’s largest visual effects companies,” the company explains. “UK VFX industry competes fiercely and successfully with rival production centres around the world.”
A 2023 report said the market is forecast to grow globally by $10.5 billion (£7.8 billion) by 2028, and Olivia McLean, managing director UK of Light VFX, believes there is an “undeniable global demand for visual effects and animation artists.”
Despite high demand, competition remains fierce, especially when you’re starting out.
1. Study the craft
Even basic FX skills include understanding the principles of animation, including timing, spacing, easing, and overlapping. You also need to be proficient with software such as Adobe AfterEffects, Nuke, and Fusion.
While you don’t need a degree, undergraduate courses can help teach those skills. Relevant subjects, as noted by careers advice site Prospects, include art, animation, computer science, and engineering, but aspiring VFX artists may prefer a dedicated course, such as:
- Visual Effects BA at University for the Creative Arts
- Visual Effects BSc at De Montfort University Leicester
- The Art of Visual Effects BA at Escape Studios
- Visual Effects (VFX) BA at Coventry University
- Computer Animation and Visual Effects BSc at Manchester Metropolitan University
- 3D Animation and Visual Effects BA at Hertfordshire University
Shorter online courses cover basics or offer guidance in key specialties:
2. Consider an apprenticeship
Apprenticeships provide entry-level paid placements and real-world training to teach you on the job. They’re worth considering if university isn’t your cup of tea.
Find a visual effects artist apprenticeship through:
- ScreenSkills Trainee Finder: Programmes in animation, film, or high-end TV offer “set-ready” training, arming you with the skills to apply for placements on UK productions.
- NextGen Skills Academy: This offers one apprenticeship standard qualification for VFX industries with three pathway options: junior VFX artist (2D), junior VFX artist (CG/3D), or assistant technical director.
- Apprenticeship course search on gov.uk: Look for VFX and other related apprenticeships.
3. Gain practical experience
Any relevant experience is useful for landing your first role. If you’re taking a VFX or related undergraduate degree, check if the internship and career services department can help.
Part-time jobs are also valuable, even if you’re making coffee rather than CGI. Develop your own passion projects or collaborate on low/no-budget indie or student films to build hands-on experience.
4. Create a demo reel
Fernando Gallo, a 3D animator and VFX artist on such productions as John Wick: Chapter 4 and Cabinet of Curiosities, stresses how important a demo reel is for aspiring VFX artists. He says: “Never stop learning, watching, and dreaming – everything you can. Oh, and make sure you have a great demo reel!”
He’s not wrong. A demo reel shows your abilities and credits, so you’re unlikely to get hired without one. A compelling reel should be:
- Short: CG Spectrum recommends keeping reels under one minute for students or under two for those with credits. Show your best work rather than padding things out.
- Credited: Credit what part of the work you made, and don’t forget to write copyrights when applicable.
- Thoroughly checked: Watch and rewatch your reel to check for errors in composition, editing, or framing. Request feedback from instructors or professionals before sending it out.
- Diverse: FX artist Timucin Ozger notes, “Variety is good, software variety is even better.” Include shots from personal projects instead of just tutorial work, showcase different types of visual effects, and demonstrate familiarity with more than one compositing software.
Reels aren’t just for job applications. Share yours to sites like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram. It’s a chance for whoever comes across your profile to see your best work.
5. Find entry-level jobs
Getting your foot in the door at a VFX company often means starting as an assistant or a runner – essentially an all-purpose helper. VFX artist Scott Dawkins, who has worked on films such as Gravity and 47 Ronin, began that way and suggests rookies follow suit:
“Runners are without a doubt the foundation of VFX…. Once their shift is over they get to sit and learn from people in the industry, train on current material and use the same resources as the VFX artists, and once a position is open they have the chance to move up the ranks.”
Rejection is common, so keep sending applications and don’t become disheartened if jobs don’t instantly materialise.
6. Begin to specialise
Established VFX artists tend to be specialists rather than generalists, so consider where your passion and talents lie. Specialisms include:
- Concept design
- 3D modelling
- Texturing
- Rigging
- 3D animation
- Digital lighting
- VFX compositing
Aim to secure opportunities in your chosen sphere. A clear focus will make you more attractive to employers.
In the words of VFX artist Mark Miko, “I think firstly you need to decide what you want to work as in the visual effects industry…. You might change your mind…but you need to go through the process.”
7. Network
Networking might seem more important for aspiring actors and directors, but it’s just as crucial in VFX. As summed up by VFX training company Rebel Way:
“Not only does [networking] keep you inspired and motivated to create, but it can also help you land an internship or a full-time job in the industry faster. Finally, it’s simply good for your resume – it demonstrates that you’re serious about building a career in the VFX industry and serves as indirect proof of the skills you listed on your CV.”
You can network by:
- Attending industry workshops
- Participating in or attending conferences and seminars
- Being active in VFX-related social media groups
8. Keep learning
The VFX industry never stands still, and established VFX artists know they can’t afford to fall behind. “With each change,” says Gallo, “I have prepared myself technically to stay one step ahead while also learning to recognize how new technologies can be beneficial.”
Adjusting to new technology and software takes time and effort, but doing so can improve your craft, optimise your workflow, and ultimately make you more employable. Pursue any additional certifications that may be handy, and stay current with industry developments.