JOB HUNT - https://creativeskillset.org/creative_industries Job Title: Compositor What does doing the job involve? The role of the compositor is for the making of the final image. Layers of previously-created material are merged together. This ranges from rendered computer animation, special effects, graphics, 2D animation and live action. Compositors require a comprehensive understanding for both the computer-generated animation process and other appropriate artistic skills. To creatively merge every element into the final image, so that the established style of the project has it’s continuity maintained. To develop the lighting, match blacks and different colour levels, add grain where necessary, apply motion blur where essential, and create shadows. To ensure that the levels come together perfectly, keying, rotoscoping and creating mattes where required. To have a close relationship with Lighters as well as having technical knowledge. This knowledge includes, how 3D lighting works. To work closely with Render Wranglers to progress the work over the department.

College of Production How do you get there? (experience? Pathway to job?) To work within in a compositing department; possibly as a Roto Artist. You can also obtain an understanding of compositing within layers for 2D Animation. This can be done through using particular programmes. After Effects is an example of this. You may also want to consider applying as a VFX Trainee through Trainee Finder. This provides a hands-on experience within the industry.

Are Qualifications required for the role? A degree in an art-related subject is required: which includes animation, design, illustration, painting, drawing, photography and computer animation. Followed by a minimum of two years’ professional experience: which will include showreels to display technical abilty. To have a thorough understanding of the particular software currently in use by the industry, such as After Effects.

What kind of experience is required?   Computer experience, so that you are used to the software. There could be some technical aspects required. Being able to handle situations that could be difficult, for example issues with the design. Communication can be experience because you need to listen to what is required.

What transferable skills (personal qualities) do you think are required? Exhibit understanding for a variety of other programmes e.g Photoshop. To entail having a good understanding of the process for keying. Good transferable communication skills. The ability to work as part of a team. The ability to act appropriately work to schedules, going about work both calmly and efficiently under pressure.

Research exercise Research the following terms: Contracts: full-time permanent, part-time permanent, fixed- term, freelance  Work patterns: shift work, office hours, irregular and anti- social hours  Pay: salaried, hourly, on completion What do you think is the most common type of Contract for the job you have previously chosen? Why? Look on the BBC College of Production site and watch the Video’s regarding Freelancing. What do you think are the Pros and cons of Freelancing?