Role Details
The Lighting Artist (LA) is a key role that will work closely with the Lighting Supervisor and Head of CG to help effectively deliver complex shows to meet high creative expectations, deadlines and technical standards. Lighting is a crucial element within the VFX pipeline and therefore our Artists need to be able to deliver their shots efficiently, creatively and technically and as it is essential that it is done correctly to ensure Compositors are able to implement Visual Effects so they sit correctly in the shots. The LA will work collaboratively with the Lighting Supervisor and HoCG to execute a broad range of Lighting tasks within Houdini. They will be responsible for reproducing and maintaining accurate lighting within a shot or sequence of the live-action plates to allow seamless integration of CG into the original live action footage and maintain consistent shot quality.
The LA will have a strong creative eye and technical skills along with the ability to communicate ideas and guide others through the creative process clearly and with diplomacy. They will have a strong sense of 3D spaces and a good understanding of the full workflow, processes and techniques for Visual Effects. They will also have the ability to provide accurate assessments of the workload and the time required to complete tasks and regularly keep in touch with the teams to provide updates or resolve any issues.
It will be a varied and exciting role and will require strong attention to detail and the ability to work accurately, methodically and patiently. They will need to have the ability to see and plan forward and be proactive. An excellent understanding of a client service studio and the ability to wear several hats and be flexible, often last minute is important. They will need excellent spoken and written communication skills as well as the ability to build relationships at all levels. They will be confident in their approach, proactive and happy to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in with whatever needs doing. They will be happy to work with minimal supervision and therefore be self-directed and motivated, but also know when to escalate issues. They will be able to multitask and adapt to changing priorities and situations, always remaining calm and professional.
Responsibilities:
Ability to execute a broad range of VFX tasks, focussing on, lighting & rendering.
Lighting and rendering shots for comp.
Ability to composite shots in a basic manner to ensure correct hand off to 2D.
Lighting (matching real world scenarios, setting up CG lighting and light rigs).
Scene assembly for shots or assets as required, including characters and animation.
Collaborate with supervisors, team members and production staff to effectively and efficiently meet client expectations.
Work closely with CG Leads/VFX Supervisors to help define a specific look, problem solve, predict where issues may lie and proactively seek out solutions as needed.
Advising and mentoring Junior Artists.
Managing workload and workflow to deadline and creative requirements.
Skills, experience and knowledge:
Strong knowledge and experience of complex visual effects, CG tools and how they fit into the CG pipeline.
Current knowledge of creative techniques and the ability to adapt them to meet project requirements.
Able to collaborate with teams and communicate creative and technical thoughts and ideas clearly.
A creative problem solver who is organised and able to multi-task and prioritise.
Able to take direction and feedback positively and maturely and is critical of their own work.
A positive can do approach and takes responsibility to deliver the final shot/sequence on schedule.
Experience using Shotgrid or similar project management tool.
Strong experience using 3D softwares ie. Houdini, Maya, Katana, Nuke.
Experience of Arnold, Renderman, VRay or similar raytracing renderers.
Knowledge of Python and/or Mel scripting is a bonus.
A great eye for detail and an accurate perception of form, scale and proportion.
Strong understanding of light, colour and composition.
High standard of quality control.
Able to solve creative problems using simple, efficient techniques, share ideas with teammates, and ability to produce rapid iterations based on notes.
Be comfortable with both the creative and technical aspects of CG work.
Ability to work under pressure and to strict deadlines whilst maintaining a high-quality output.
Comfortable with a wide range of software used to create high-quality digital environments.
Inspire a culture of creative innovation.