FX Artist – Projects – Environmental Effects

These are the core concepts that will be covered in our Effects Technical Director program using the industry standard software from SideFX called Houdini. Our curriculum evolves and adapts to fit Industry needs.

We are firm believers that it is not proficiency in a certain software that makes a good effects artist, but rather the ability to continually problem solve and adapt to the task at hand.

It is the business of the FX TD to analyze natural phenomena and replicate them as photo-realistically as possible. The first skill essential to complete this task is a trained eye that is able to discern the characteristics and qualities of those natural phenomena. From lightning bolts to smoke plumes, to the intricate behaviour of a school of fish, developing a sense for breaking apart what drives nature is the centerpiece of an FX TD’s education and lifelong skill set.

Probably even more important is the skill of problem solving. A good FXTD will have to train their mind in the ways of critical thinking and structured troubleshooting of complex systems. Therefore, we focus on teaching the skill of finding solutions to whatever the problem might be. Houdini is a unique piece of software that allows for problem solving unlike any other VFX software platform. Throughout the FXTD program, we will continually strive to eliminate the phrase “It doesn’t work” from our vocabulary and develop a firm sense that anything we set our minds to can be built virtually.