Have you ever wondered what it takes to pursue VFX as a career? What does it take to become a VFX artist, and how can anyone pursue such an exciting and rewarding career?
In this blog post, we’ll explore these questions and more. We’ll discuss the future of VFX in India, as well as what kinds of skills and knowledge are necessary for individuals who want to enter the field. We’ll also talk about some of the best ways you can get started on your journey to becoming a VFX artist.
What are VFX and animation?
VFX and animation are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to very different things.
VFX stands for visual effects and refers to any kind of effect that is added to a film or video after it has been shot. This can include everything from computer-generated imagery (CGI) to more subtle effects like colour correction or edge enhancement.
Animation, on the other hand, is the process of creating moving images using either traditional means such as hand-drawn cells or stop-motion techniques, or more modern techniques such as computer-generated animation.
So, while VFX can be used to create animated images, animation is not limited to just VFX. In fact, many animated films and TV shows are completely free of any kind of visual effects.
What are the skills required to become a VFX and animation artist?
There are a few skills that are required to take VFX as a career. These skills include:
- 3D modelling: This is the process of creating three-dimensional objects within a software program. In order to create realistic models, artists must have a strong understanding of anatomy, lighting, and texture.
- Prototyping: This is the process of creating a working model of an animation or design. This allows artists to test out their ideas and make changes before committing to the final product.
- Adobe Creative Suite: This software suite contains everything an artist needs to create professional animations and designs. It includes programs like Photoshop, After Effects, and Illustrator.
- UI Design: User interface design is important for animators because it dictates how users will interact with their creations. A well-designed UI can make an animation more user-friendly and increase its overall appeal.
- MAYA: MAYA is a 3D modelling program that is commonly used in the film and video game industry. It has powerful tools that allow artists to create realistic models and animations.
- Microsoft Office packages: Microsoft Office packages are important for animators because they allow them to easily share their work with others and keep track of deadlines.
These skills are required to tap into the innumerable VFX opportunities both in India and abroad. You can also find some VFX opportunities online.
How to become a VFX and Animation artist in India?
It’s not easy to become a VFX and animation artist. It takes both passion and hard work to create the amazing effects we see in movies today. And you don’t have to travel halfway around the world to do it! You can learn all the skills you need right here in India.
Here are some ways to become a VFX and animation artist in India:
1. Get a bachelor’s degree
In India, if you want to become a VFX and Animation artist, one of the best things you can do is get a bachelor’s degree in this field. This will give you the education and credentials needed to pursue this career path.
2. Try online courses
Another option is to try online courses. Many reputable websites offer comprehensive courses that can teach you the basics of VFX and Animation. These are often shorter and less expensive than traditional college programs.
3. Watch YouTube tutorials
You can also find helpful resources by watching YouTube Tutorials. There are many channels dedicated to teaching these skills, and you can learn at your own pace.
4. Get a mentor
It can be helpful to find a mentor in this field. Someone who has already been successful in this career can help guide you and give you useful advice.
What is the future of VFX and animation in India?
The future of VFX and animation in India looks very promising. The industry has seen a significant growth in the past few years and is expected to grow even more in the coming years.
With the increasing consumption of kids’ content on TV and OTT platforms, there is a great demand for new IPs and episodes of popular titles. Homegrown animation entertainment is also gaining popularity in India. After adapting to working from home, most animation companies have seen an increase in production.
India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world and is ready to set new norms for the animation industry, as it has done for other industries such as IT and telecom. India just ranked top in yearly film output in 2021 and without VFX, Bollywood wouldn’t exist.
The animation business has given us world-class movies, video games, and cartoons. Companies are now exploring 360-degree components and virtual reality applications that will take the industry to new heights.
India has an advantage over other countries because it has so many stories that are based on myths and legends. Because of this, the visual effects industry has a bright future, and young and talented people who want to work in it can look forward to a bright future.
Directors and filmmakers in the animation industry are always looking for VFX talent. This makes it extremely lucrative for young individuals to take VFX as a career without any worries.
Tips to sharpen your VFX and Animation abilities
Here are a few tips that will help if you thinking to take up VFX as a career:
1. Seek out references from the real world
To create believable visual effects or animations, it is important to base them on reality as much as possible. This means studying real-world objects and environments carefully so that you can replicate them convincingly in your own work.
2. Practice makes perfect
In this industry, practice really does make perfect. The more you work on honing your craft, the better you will become at it. There are no shortcuts – only hard work and dedication will get you where you want to be.
3. Embrace criticism
If someone critiques your work, don’t take it personally – instead, use it as an opportunity to learn and grow as an artist. Criticism can help us see our own shortcomings so that we can address them and improve our skills overall.
Conclusion
There are many VFX opportunities in India and surprisingly there are not many people who take it as their career. If you could tap into this industry early on you could make a nice career out of it. Most of the colleges don’t even let their students know that they can take VFX as a career which is a sad thing. However, you can see it as an opportunity and make the most out of it.