Vancouver Film School

[tofumaster]

AI does more on get a person ready for the job instead of getting a job... =D

[Gkaine]

AI does more on get a person ready for the job instead of getting a job... =D

wow you're really good at talking out of your ass

ai must kick ass
http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=153101

[Heber]

my god this is unfair,
i attended both schools, i took most of the first year at ai (was a 2 year rape) and it was disgustingly horrible, the facilities were excellent but they crammed so many students in there it was hard to find a place to work , except at night when most of the students would be out doing nothing i sat in the lab and worked with a few of my buddies who were dedicated.
After going to ai then graduating from vfs i cannot even begin to compare the 2 , ai can never match up to what vfs is, at least vfs has a structured program designed by profesionals, ai is just a big gong show where its so disorgarnized and basically you are on your own,
As for all the current vfs guys in earlier terms bashing the instructors and staff at vfs, think twice about what you are saying here! these are the people that you will be asking for reference and to namedrop on larry is just offensive to me , he is your single most valuable resource while you work on your demo and he is a great mentor and guy to get advice from. So if you have not met with him its because he is busy with the guys working on their reels.
To put and end to all of this,
i think the current situation is since moving into the new building the facilities are worse, i was happy over at homer street and it felt more like a school than it does right now which is more like a dirty office building, go see ai guys its a warehouse which has been turned into a studio its nice inside, but think!!!
who cares about the f'ing building?? you are there for a different reason and if you guys only knew what i had to deal with at ai...all those people in my class playing games, chatting oin msn , giggling incesantly while playing warcraft while i was trying to learn, adminstration and charging me for extra classes, teachers who didnt show up to classes, and other things i tried to forget...at least at vfs this wasnt an issue and it provided me some sort of environment to develop myself as an artist.
thats the end of my rant.
I wish you all current guys the best of luck and i know what its like to be frustrated and in your position i was there many times, but there are worse things as far as education (AI being one)
-Heber Alvarado Class 3d50

[Shaunny_Darko]

THE MICE WE USE AT SCHOOL ARENT OPTIC??!!!

[dguy]

Do you guys know if VFS allow to you defer your enrollment? Like I'm suppose to attend this OCt, but I would rather go later, like in JAN. I just need more time before going to VFS.

[tofumaster]

wow you're really good at talking out of your ass

ai must kick ass
http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?t=153101

And whats your problem? can't you discuss this in proper manner?

[LordHades]

I used to go there as well. There were good and bad things when I was there, but from what I understand, most of thats been cleaned up. Its getting REALLY expensive there now. Im still chopping away at my student loans.

But you wanted to hear bad things? The sound guy is god aweful. Im not joking when I say this: He's some old hair-metal has-bin. If you meet him he WILL show you his music video from the early 80's. As a person hes a nice enough guy. I dont want to insult the man personally, but his work is horrific. Be prepared to do you're own sound or start asking for artist's rights to use thier work.

One more thing you should note: At VFS, you're demo reel is still the property of Vancouver Film School when you're done. (Which means they can use your video in whatever they want without your consent or knowledge) It not a big deal, but you should just know that. I think CDIS gives all rights to the student. Call and find out for sure. If you have any specific questions, you can email current students right through the website.

Best ot luck, and I hope this helps.

Mike R

I know what you mean. He did the sfx for my 1996 demo and it turned out worse than what you would see from a d rated childrens short film. As for the film school itself. It was the best time I ever had. I mean to have people come from all over the world to go there for a year, it has to be good right? I went there in 1996-1998 taking 3d animation and digital effects then to MAYA essentials class 1 (ya that's right I was in the very first maya class.). I actually wanted to take my lvl 3 power animator course and was offered that chance. Lucky for me the sound guy didn;t do my second reel. But you are right he is a nice enough guy. As for the other guys like Ray and Alan top notch guys who I would like to see in my very own entertainment company. On that note I like to give a shout out to the 3d4 and maya1 alumni, woot!

BTW, the price could go down some, but I guess that's what you pay for top-notch teaching!

[Gkaine]

Do you guys know if VFS allow to you defer your enrollment? Like I'm suppose to attend this OCt, but I would rather go later, like in JAN. I just need more time before going to VFS.
that depends on how close it is to your start date, but they normaly dont care as long as the one you're defering to isnt full. if you're already enrolled just call and ask vfs?

[Gkaine]

And whats your problem? can't you discuss this in proper manner?
because when i read your comment i wanted to jam needles into my eyes.


i should quote you on the end of my demo reel.

AI does more on get a person ready for the job instead of getting a job... =D

rawfles

[Heber]

actually thats a pretty funny quote! you should put it your signature joe! haha
:)

[tofumaster]

haha.... omg it is actually prety funny....

[scotty.campbell]

as for the "name drop on larry", the only reason that was mentioned was because he is the only person the school mentions for our program when signing up. I thought i would have got a little more "teaching" from him. Theres no disrespect being put twards him at all. It's twards the school. I just feel they're really mis leading when your enrolling in the school, and i wish i would have known then what i know now.

[MikeRhone]

Heber hinted at in in an earlier post, but I feel I must re-itterate:

Be civil. Especially in Vancouver, this industry is an EXTREMLY tight, small community. Your reputation follows you everywhere. There are a few names I know of that are studio blacklisted, dont be one of them.

...To those of you who are current students and have a good work ethic, good attitude and good attendance... Your teachers ARE prospective employers and it does get noticed.

To those of you chat away on MSN, dont pay attention, dont do assignments, put little or no effort into projects, have bad attitudes and generally have a bad work ethic...

...

It also gets noticed.

...M

[Heber]

well put mr. rhone !
(how is life btw? long time since ive seen you on msn)
i think its funny how sometimes we dont realize what we are saying or what impact it has on our name. If you feel the need to vent about teachers and students this isnt the best place, people tend to remember your name.
Best to just stick it out or take it up with the respective individuals.
Sorry guys someone has to say it.

[MikeRhone]

Life is going well... Im going to be taking some time off over the summer, and am likely going to visit Europe in the fall. After that who knows? I guess Ill see what the need is like for FX/Rigging nerds around town.

Who knows, maybe we'll even share a cubicle... Ya RIGHT... stinky modeler ;)

Keep in touch.

Mike

[Gkaine]

http://student.vfs.com/~3d55joe/aivfs.jpg

[Rens]

Hahaha, oh man that is sick. :D

[shupersonic]

hey everyone,

I am a current VFSer and I am in the same class as Scotty Cambell. I felt compelled to reply to this thread and offer my two cents. Hopefully people researching schools might find this post informative.

In my honest opinion, this is a school going through a hefty transitional period. Tuition has been raised, the campus has been moved across town, and there are multiple rumors floating around about sweeping changes to the curriculum. The next 18 months is crucial to the future of this program and its reputation, IMHO.

In light of all these politics, I feel as though I am getting my money's worth out of this program. I say this not because of the facility or because of the resources here, but because of my fellow classmates, the teachers, and the effort that I am putting into my work. But then again, I got into this school two months before they hiked up the tuition. If I had had to pay the kind of money that they are asking for now, I doubt that I would be able to say the same thing.

I think that Scotty raises some very very valid points. I'll pick the most important one to stress though. We are here learning COMPUTER animation. Thus, in order to study COMPUTER animation, there should be no shortage of COMPUTERS. But there is a major shortage here.

When I was researching schools a little over a year ago, the vast consensus among every professional that I talked to was that a great program would have a computer to student ratio of AT LEAST . . . 1.5:1 (1.5 computers to every student)

This past term at VFS, I counted 188 enrolled students in 3d and in maya. The number of computers available to those students was (by my count). . . 136. that is a ratio of 1:1.38 (one computer for every 1.38 students). This is a terrible ratio . . . far below (almost inverse of) what the consensus standard is. Even if they doubled the number of computers they have now, their ratio would still be short (but close . . . it would be 1.45 computers to every student.)

They keep the labs open 24/7 to compensate for the shortage, and it does help to a certain extent. But at the end of every term, there is a huge bottleneck. Students need up to 10 computers rendering in order to meet the end of term deadlines. Students show up during the day ready to work but have no computer to work on. So they show up at 2 am and find 2 open ones. They stay up all night waiting for more computers to open up and then miss class the next day cause they are too exhausted to function.

The school is accepting more students and charging more money. How that influx affects the quality of the facilities and resources here has yet to be seen. I would check back in 18 months . . . .

[dguy]

"In light of all these politics, I feel as though I am getting my money's worth out of this program. I say this not because of the facility or because of the resources here, but because of my fellow classmates, the teachers, and the effort that I am putting into my work. But then again, I got into this school two months before they hiked up the tuition. If I had had to pay the kind of money that they are asking for now, I doubt that I would be able to say the same thing."

That's hardly a good reason to go the VFS. If that was the case you should pay your classmates and not the school. Seriously, the school has to make it worth the 40 grands to go there and it doesn't seem like that's the case. Bad facilities, and inadequate resources? That is unacceptable in my opinion. I just deferred my enrollment till next year, as in I'm applying to somewhere else but I need a backup school. I hope they learn that if you gonna charge that much money, you should get your act together.

[volofulgere]

I'm just wondering, if it' a 12 month program, can it be broken down into 2 years? 6 month and 6 month? if not, is there no summer? 12 month full-time school?

[Intervain]

No breakdowns as far as I know - yes it's 12 months of school practically 24/7 - mad but enjoyably rewarding!!! The only holidays you get are roughly 4 days every 2 months

[Intervain]

Gkaine - how could you do that to Slippy ?!!!http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/eek.gifhttp://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/buttrock.gif Awesome!

[shupersonic]

"In light of all these politics, I feel as though I am getting my money's worth out of this program. I say this not because of the facility or because of the resources here, but because of my fellow classmates, the teachers, and the effort that I am putting into my work. But then again, I got into this school two months before they hiked up the tuition. If I had had to pay the kind of money that they are asking for now, I doubt that I would be able to say the same thing."

That's hardly a good reason to go the VFS. If that was the case you should pay your classmates and not the school. Seriously, the school has to make it worth the 40 grands to go there and it doesn't seem like that's the case. Bad facilities, and inadequate resources? That is unacceptable in my opinion. I just deferred my enrollment till next year, as in I'm applying to somewhere else but I need a backup school. I hope they learn that if you gonna charge that much money, you should get your act together.

Ah, but see I didn't pay 40 grand to go to this school . . . I paid considerably less . . . And I feel as though the teaching staff has helped me a great deal, and what computers we do have, are pretty damn kick arse. I think that if I were to try and learn 3d on my own, I would probably have to spend roughly a third of what I paid in VFS tuition just to get a computer capable of handling the volume of polys that a typical scene file has.

Is it worth what I paid?? Well, I am determined to MAKE it worth what I paid. A school is never going to be all that its cracked up to be. That is one thing that I have learned over the course of the years. There will always be some aspect of a program that could be better. I am just saying that students who come to this school now are paying a lot more than what I did. That means that this program is taking in a considerably larger sum of money now as well. So far, that money has not been put back into the program (as far as I can tell.) That is all I'm saying.

VFS is a good school. You can get a lot out of it, but they are not going to give you a pill that will make you awesome. That is what they would like you to think, but it is just not the case. You get your money's worth by immersing yourself in a community of fellow artists who are all hungry to succeed, and who will push you to achieve bigger and better things than you have achieved before. VFS, despite all of its shortcomings . . . has that community. That is what is most invaluable about any form of higher education.

Will VFS facilities improve over the upcoming months?? I don't know. But I do know that there WILL be a ton of great work that comes out of this school in the very near future. So when the next great VFS reel shows up online, you can not only marvel at how good it looks, but you can also marvel that whoever produced that piece had a lack of resources, computers, and faculty support when they made it. GIVE THAT MAN A JOB!

[MikeRhone]

...Well, I am determined to MAKE it worth what I paid....

...You can get a lot out of it, but they are not going to give you a pill that will make you awesome...

...You get your money's worth by immersing yourself in a community of fellow artists who are all hungry to succeed, and who will push you to achieve bigger and better things than you have achieved before. VFS, despite all of its shortcomings . . . has that community. That is what is most invaluable about any form of higher education...


There is not a big enough font out there to express my agreement with the above post. VFS's one advantage over other schools that it is very short and very intense. Students IMMERSE themselves in 3d, all day. Every day. Professionals put in at least 10 hour day, 5 days a week. You wont be able to work with professionals if you dont put in the same effort as professionals.

Fact: You will not get a job in this industry if you only do what is given in class.

[dguy]

" Is it worth what I paid?? Well, I am determined to MAKE it worth what I paid."

That's like saying you paid 40 grand for a car. And the dealer sells you a lemon but you grow fond of it, and it's like your favorite car now. But the point is the dealer still ripped you off, and the car isn't worth the 40 grand.

I am not saying that the school has to be perfect. But for the money that they are charging people the very least they could do is to provide enough resources for their students. That's not too much to ask I don't think. I mean, from what I understand they don't even have a color printer! While I can understand if their fee was more reasonable, but if you have an average student paying 30,000 dollars and times that by 20+ per class, and 4 classes per year. That's well over 2 million dollars. With that kind of money they should get every student a helper robot or something. It just seem to me that they are not spending enough of the tuition on the student.

"Will VFS facilities improve over the upcoming months?? I don't know. But I do know that there WILL be a ton of great work that comes out of this school in the very near future. So when the next great VFS reel shows up online, you can not only marvel at how good it looks, but you can also marvel that whoever produced that piece had a lack of resources, computers, and faculty support when they made it. GIVE THAT MAN A JOB!"

I really like the reels that I have seen from students from VFS. But if it is the case that the students are producing great work even with "a lack of resources" as you put it. That's the credit to the student, and NOT THE SCHOOL. And while I still think VFS is a good school because you guys are obviously learning something there, I don't know if it's worth the 40 grand on my bill.

[manacrystal]

I've heard my share of good and bad things about VFS over the last year. When I look back on all the money and time spent on high school, pretty much ANYTHING seems more worthwhile in comparison. When I consider going to a university like the art school here (Alberta College of Art & Design) I think about how I will pay 4 years of tuition, overpriced art supplies and living costs to sit in impractical art history courses so I can get more acquainted with typography! And the people I know who have obtained degrees are struggling on their own and working at Zellers after 4 years of school. NO SCHOOL will be a magical massage parlour where all your dreams come true. NO JOB will pay you $100 000 a year to walk through the park on a nice day. Life is about struggling to overcome adversity.

I will be in Vancouver on October 17th for orientation and I will deal with whatever crap I have to during the 3D Animation and Visual Effects course. I will help out my fellow students and make the best out of the opportunities I've been given. More than anything, I view it as an experience from which I will grow as a person (and hopefully as an artist). When people say "you get out what you put in", they actually mean it, no one will be babysitting you to make sure you suceed, that's your responsibility. That being said, if I didn't have a scholarship I wouldn't be going to such an incredibly expensive school at all! http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/grin.gif
I look forward to meeting everyone who's out in Van this Fall!

[Intervain]

shupersonic and MikeRhone have said it all! It's the artists community comprising mainly of your fellow students that is worth the time and money spent here. Plus:

'You wont be able to work with professionals if you dont put in the same effort as professionals.

Fact: You will not get a job in this industry if you only do what is given in class.'


absolutely - just sitting in class anhttp://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/smile.gifd doing your homework won't get you far. It's staying after hours and doing long weekends, trying stuff out and going through tuts, that'll get you where you want to go. Plus don't be afraid to ask around!!! Talk to people in other terms if you have problems or any of the TAs on site. They may have gone through those before and may help you fairly quickly. Trying to reinvent the wheel is a waste of time, too.
I'm starting term 4 on monday - the beginning of the production stage and I'm sure that discipline and long hours are the only things that will guarantee a good demo reel in the end. It will be tough work and a lot of sweat but I'm sure the result will be worth it. Wish me luckhttp://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/grin.gif

To everyone who's coming to VFS soon - see you guys on floor 4 http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

[Arrghman]

I really like the reels that I have seen from students from VFS. But if it is the case that the students are producing great work even with "a lack of resources" as you put it. That's the credit to the student, and NOT THE SCHOOL. And while I still think VFS is a good school because you guys are obviously learning something there, I don't know if it's worth the 40 grand on my bill.

But would the students be producing such good reels if they weren't going to the school? I suppose that's always an issue when looking at the reels that come out of a school, regardless of the school: are the reels a product of the school or just from the talent of the students? And I think the only real answer is that it's a combination of both. I've certanly grown considerably as an artist since I started at VFS 6 months ago, and so has everyone else in my class. We were opening up our Term 1 projects the other day, the ones we were so proud of when we first built them (well, kinda) and there's a huge difference between their quality level and the quality level that the entire class is capable of reaching now, 5 months later. Yes, lots of people in my class put a lot of effort into it. But the school provides the framework for that effort to function in.

I can't really speak for others, but if instead of coming here I dumped all the tuition money into buying equipment and stayed at home for a year, I seriously doubt I would reach the level that I'll hit at the end of my time at this school ('course I'm making some assumptions, because that's still 6 months away, but whatever ;)).

I'm basically just reiterating what everyone else has been saying in the past few posts. So yeah!

[Intervain]

I wouldn't worry about a good reel if I were you Lee http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/scream.gif Bound to be!

You're right - dumping money into kick-ass equipment would've been nice but I'm sure I wouldn't have learned what I know now in the same space of time - I for one needed guidaince on where to begin, in the first place. There's so much to 3d that deciding where the h~!! one starts is hard.
Most of all I wouldn't have met the people I know now - who are bound to be my future work mates!

[cgi_guy2005]

I haven't heard too much about the school, although i've been thinking about attending VFS. A friend of mine went there and said it was pretty good. I found this on the site, thought you guys might want to check it out.


Check out this awesome clip (http://www.vfs.com/gallery.php?id=7&category_id=10&project_id=827&referID=show&campaignID=1)




This guy was the winner (along with another VFS grad) of Electronic Art's "Great Canadian Arts Competition" - seems like the success rate is pretty high. What do you guys think?

[Bsmith]

for all the people think that going to VFS is a good isea jsut because of the demo reels that come out of there should maybe think again.

From the amount of people that go to VFS a year...about 4 people come out with a really good demo reel. The rest prolly suck, but obviously VFS is going to take those 4 really good demo reels and tell everyone that this is what you'll have after you finish here.

Now, I'm not saying everyone is capable to getting a really good demo reel...if you work hard enough. I'm just saying that those good demo reels everyone is seeing comes from a very select few.

[Gkaine]

for all the people think that going to VFS is a good isea jsut because of the demo reels that come out of there should maybe think again.

From the amount of people that go to VFS a year...about 4 people come out with a really good demo reel. The rest prolly suck, but obviously VFS is going to take those 4 really good demo reels and tell everyone that this is what you'll have after you finish here.

Now, I'm not saying everyone is capable to getting a really good demo reel...if you work hard enough. I'm just saying that those good demo reels everyone is seeing comes from a very select few.

have you seen the classes graduating and that are coming up? the majority of the students are kicking ass, you dont see half the awsome work that comes out of vfs because the students dont post it.
the people who are mad, are mad over principle. at the end of the day they are still providing you the means to succeed. imo you wont find a better place for a year program.

[The_Merch]

Yeah it's true that there are maybe like 3-4 hot shots in a year, but on average, regardless of all the crap going on at VFS, on average the class reels are above anything spitting out of vancouver.


As for the rest of the world who knows, all I know is I don't see a lot of other schools getting front page here.

But yeah, to pick vfs because some kid got front page here is retarded, because chances are you aren't one of the 4 students out of 200 that go through the school in a year. Just talk with clear minded students, not bitter ones and not fan boys and make a decision on your own.

[Intervain]

First of all; what's the point of going anywhere or learning anything if you don't believe you can be one of those select few with the good reel?!

Secondly like Gkaine says, there are many great demo reels in every class and you don't get to see half of them here, not to mention any other websites!

I still think VFS is worth the time and effort and not many schools have alumni with this level of work. I, for one, am from a country where you cannot learn 3d anywhere [except at home from books and tuts, and this takes much more than a year without guidance to achieve the same level]. I'm happy with my decision so far and hope it shall remain that way.

[The_Merch]

The point is to learn and to have realisitic expectations and grow from that so one day you can be a select few.


Saying your going to go to school and be the rockstar is about as airy fairy as the thousands of waiters/waitresses moving to hollywood thinking to become the next big thing.

If you have your feet grounded and a solid work ethic it doesn't matter if you don't come out of school as the hottest thing ever, you'll still have good work to show and you can build from there. So many students have the ideal that some magic spark is going to make them great in life while they are at school and then burn out and get depressed when they do finnish even with some pretty solid work, but since they weren't the best ever or even in their class their confidence is shot and so is their ambition.

If you have dreams of granduer, coolio, but keep your self in check and just focus on working, don't think your going to be king s@#$ suddenly because your going to school, just work on your stuff and it'll come. Maybe not while in school, maybe not for a few years after, maybe never, but you'll still have good work and be proud of the fact you stuck with it and built up your skills rather then getting depressed becuase you weren't best in show.

[Gkaine]

, coolio,

1 good sign you're talking to a vfs student

[SpliffmanCometh]

Hi everyone,

this is my first post ever on cgtalk

I came across this thread around 6:00pm and i only finished reading it now.(around 11pm pacific time). Holy crap. This thread spans almost 3 years. The guy who started it could have gone to VFS and graduated 2 years ago! Sorry, but i had to bring that up.

But, i wouldn't say the time spent reading it was wasted, because i too attend VFS,(in the foundation program)and i'll be moving on into 3D, next may. (I got the old tuition fee, luckily:D)
This thread brings up alot of concerns regarding the facilities for future students.
(i'm referring to the shortage of computers and equipment) Even in foundatin, there is only one printer on the entire floor, so everyone waits in line PLUS it jams up like a motherf****r!
We can only hope that VFS Cleans up it act soon. Nonetheless, i'm still ecstatic that i was able to secure the old tuition. THANK YOU GIJA!!!

[Heber]

for all the people think that going to VFS is a good isea jsut because of the demo reels that come out of there should maybe think again.

From the amount of people that go to VFS a year...about 4 people come out with a really good demo reel. The rest prolly suck, but obviously VFS is going to take those 4 really good demo reels and tell everyone that this is what you'll have after you finish here.

Now, I'm not saying everyone is capable to getting a really good demo reel...if you work hard enough. I'm just saying that those good demo reels everyone is seeing comes from a very select few.

i hate how i keep hearing this over and over around town, "vfs will take the best students and advertise the hell out of them" where????? only place is there website and thats understandable other than that i dont see vfs putting up huge billboards claiming greatness (such as other schools around town). As far as im concerned the reason why we keep seeing demo reels here on cgtalk is because vfs students are a different crowd , resourceful and willing to post work for critique and exposure.
*THE SCHOOL DOESNT TELL YOU TO POST HERE GET OVER YOURSELF.
sorry had to say that to anyone else who happens to come across this thread.

[Intervain]

believing that you can do well does not mean that you're not grounded and you're surfing among the clouds! It's just plain believing that you can work hard enough and achieve something. I'm not talking about dreams of grandeur.

you keep hearing about vfs students because they take care - themselves - to advertise their skills once they leave the school

the school itself - like others have pointed out - advertises the hell out of a few students on their website - not a lot of people keep visiting that one every day!
Anyway the school will choose 'festival worthy' pieces - that's just obvious publishing...

oh and one other thing: coolio ??? Gkaine is right - lucky you're talking to vfs students http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/eek.gif

[The_Merch]

Well yeah wanting to do well is natural, what I was saying is expecting that you're going to be the best because you go to a certain school often kills people's motivation/ambition when they realize they aren't.

Take a look at the class that Heber is in, I remember seeing his stuff and the orc guys stuff thrown up everywhere(by their own ambition) they're rockstars because they are involved in the community, but the other people in his class were doing really good too, they just only posted a couple times here, so no one really took a whole lot of notice, I can imagine how stifling that might be, but the ones I saw did really solid work.

Also, how do you guys know coolio? Nigel doesn't even work there anymore, does he?

[Heber]

thanks merch, yeah i always have been a forum junkie (post count..) i believe and i keep telling people that this is the best place to get noticed , the reason why other classmates knew or posted here was because i was always talking to everyone about how great this place is, if it wasnt for cgtalk i dont think i would have gotten the exposure or opportunities that i did, so i owe alot to this place as well as many other former students.
As for coolio im sure thats a reference to paul (instructor)
and nigel left a few terms before i started i believe hes a senior modeler at nerdcorps.
:)

[The_Merch]

And Paul stole Nigels catch phrase? Just like Paul... hehehe, someone reading this call him Nigel Jr. or something in class one day, lol.

[Intervain]

The Merch: Ok I guess we're practically saying the same thing LOL

Damn, no more classes with Paul but I shall certainly suggest that to someone from other terms http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/twisted.gif

Herbert and Heber - they are rockstars - hope to follow in their steps anyways - eh, ambition http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/eek.gif Shame they're gone already since I had no chance to pick their brains directlyhttp://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

[Heber]

Herbert and Heber - they are rockstars - hope to follow in their steps anyways - eh, ambition http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/eek.gif Shame they're gone already since I had no chance to pick their brains directlyhttp://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

:eek:
nahh were just like anyone else, i still drop it from time to time so flag me down and pick away , hehe, As for my buddy herb hes leaving next week to california. :)
are you a modeler?

*also say hi to jeanne for me as well (was in my class before )

[Intervain]

yep I'm a modeler :) well, hoping to be *g* - Mike liked my concept pitch so I'm on the right path I guess, now the hard road begins - making the concept a reality http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/eek.gif -
Thanks Heber I'll pick away LOL if I get a chance then http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/smile.gif

*will do, Jeanne is in my class so no problemo http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif

[KolbyJukes]

I'm glad to see current VFS students are posting their opinions of the school in this thread...I know when I went to school, it was really hard to find a VFS student to talk to/ask questions - so I had no idea what to expect when I started at the school.

night everybody :)

-K.

[Domo_Digital]

wanna hear something kinda crazy?

Im in Term 5 of 6 terms at VFS and I have no teacher.....

My "mentor" left at the end of Term 4 (last week) this is my first offical day at VFS with no real mentor that specifies in my Stream. Now what you say? I'm asking myself that same question.

The worst part is, no one told us. I knew about it because I heard a rumor and confronted my teacher. I also "hear" that they will hire someone so not to worry.....but when your at school and have no teacher it makes it pretty hard not to.

So wheres my 27 Grand going? Who knows.I sure cant use the internet to get tutorials, cuz they cut us off, except for sites like this where nothing works anyways cuz its all links. BUT they did give us some internet stations that more than 90 students need to use, so they're often occupied.I came to VFS knowing I wanted to take Visual FX, I didnt need to figure out my stream as I went along.I was told today I can always switch streams...after putting 5 months into one of them, its a little late to turn back.

Had they told me this before I decided my stream I may have chosen a different one before I started working on this one. But now...Im not sure....

This is of course only Day 1 of Term 5. Technically I'd be assuming my teacher is still here and going to class tomorrow expecting to see him. And they'll have to at least tell me something...or best case...teach me something. ISnt that weird? Im coming to school tomorrow with very high hopes that I'll actually have a teacher...go figure. Maybe the New School slogan should be "VFS - Sink or Swim"

Of course this could all be nothing.And there ARE plenty of tutorials online, but I didnt come to school to read online tutorials. If there isnt a capable teacher to teach me techniques of Visual FX by 9am June 28th......Needless to say, I'll be a little "concerned"

Not knowing is whats killing me right now.....whoever said "ignorance is bliss" never came to Vancouver Film School.

[Intervain]

OMG I really feel for you guys - I wanted to go for VFX myself but I've heard 'a rumour' and changed my mind [there were other factors, too but that was one hell of a reason in itself] I just can't understand why the school just didn't inform the students about what was going on! They couldn't have kept that secret, now could they?!

Hope the answers [at best in the form of a new, qualified VFX mentor] will come within the next few days. I can definitely understand the frustration!

[pum]

intervain: haha, we are just normal VFSers that bugs other students too much ( well, me atleast ,with all the games.) Too bad I will be gone to the states soon, otherwise I want to visit vfs more. Post ur stuff, im sure u will get tons of constructive crits.And, ask Heebs a lot of Q, im sure he is willing to help u guys out :thumbsup:

domo_digital: wow, too bad. So Mark isnt teaching anymore?
ah well, dont let that discourage you. I know vfx ppl need a lot of online tuts and lots of custom plugins. But some VFXers managed to get through it and ended up still with an amazing reel ( I know Ken from my class did most of his research himself, and he rarely asked Mark.!) So, keep it up!and I hope u will get a new mentor soon! :)

cheers,
HB

[Heber]

whoa mark is leaving? new to me . This reminds me of what happened right before we started vfs when shawn tilling left, but they managed to get someone qualified in time so all we can do is hope the school will come thru and deliver for you guys, never stop demanding things but dont be rude about it , make an appointment with larry and voice your concerns he is a great person that will listen to you guys.

Pum: finally you post you stinky bastard jj,
man too bad everyone is leaving, makes me want to pack up and do the same hehe. Well hopefully you can settle in to your new smoggy neighbourhood soon and join us in the mini challenge some awesome modelers are down in this one. :)
intervain yeah show us some work as soon as you can, also try over at chemicaldust.com they got some sick modelers there too.
cheers

[Arrghman]

The worst part is, no one told us. I knew about it because I heard a rumor and confronted my teacher. I also "hear" that they will hire someone so not to worry.....but when your at school and have no teacher it makes it pretty hard not to.

I think that pretty much sums up the problems at VFS: lack of communication between the admin and the students.

I'm sure that they're working on hiring someone as soon as they can. But for the life of me, I don't understand why they didn't tell the student body as soon as Mark decided to leave. Better to hear bad news then no news at all because then all you get is rumors which inevitebly makes things worse.

We're got a really small number of people going into VFX in our class. I know everyone has their own reasons for chosing their stream, but it really feels like this may have effected that and that sucks... stuff like this shouldn't factor in to what you're doing at school. Teachers coming and going is natural at any school and since the classes are rolling at VFS there's obviously going to be an interruption for someone... but there's no sense trying to keep it a secret.

All the talk about the computer's for term 4 and the problems the current term 5 had has me all worried now. As of today, they didn't even have hard drive space for us yet, though they said is should be there tomorrow. I'm almost afraid of going in tomorrow and finding out I don't have a computer to work on or anywhere to put my files :surprised

[Intervain]

Herbert and Heber - thanks for the tips, I will be posting for sure. Cheers!http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/thumbsup.gif

Yeah, I'm scared of going today too - hope the HDD space problem will be solved - lol at least the seating was divided yesterday *g* - if that's any consolation to anyone - NOT!

OMG - I still cannot believe we don't have our own computers and TERM 5 has to share - that's plain insane!

[Bartek|3D]

Hey,

That really sucks that he left, but have you thought about the fact that it's due to personal/family reasons that he had to leave abrubtly? It's not a big conspiracy theory that he left and nobody was notified, although I do agree we should have been told. Sometimes things happen like this and you gotta deal with them, stuff like this also happens in the workplace as well. And people are being interviewed to fill his spot. :)
I hope you get your mentor soon cuz VFX looks like it's pretty tough.

See ya @ the Ant Farm,
Bartek

wanna hear something kinda crazy?

Im in Term 5 of 6 terms at VFS and I have no teacher.....

My "mentor" left at the end of Term 4 (last week) this is my first offical day at VFS with no real mentor that specifies in my Stream. Now what you say? I'm asking myself that same

[Domo_Digital]

but have you thought about the fact that it's due to personal/family reasons that he had to leave abrubtly? It's not a big conspiracy theory that he left and nobody was notified



Dont get me wrong here. Im not saying its a conspiracy theory or anything. But I knew about it shortly after mid term presentations. Which gives them about 2 months to notify us. And Seriously begin searching for a new mentor to take his place. My post was more to express my concern on the situation...Im not even sure why I posted it...its not helping me get anywhere.

What I should be posting is a question..."How do I make a 12 foot tall robotic Gorilla integrate into live footage? :D

Im suuuure something will happen, and I'll get taight....teached....learn-ed? ...At some point.

:thumbsup: heres to hopin'

[The_Merch]

Wow, thanks for expressing the concern and it seems totally valid hopefully VFS will get right now it.... oh wait, this isn't a VFS forum or even remotely connected to the company....

Sorry, but if you want to express concern you should probably actually talk with the people in the company face to face rather then post it on a random(albiet large) internet message board, because at that point you aren't expressing concern but publically bashing a school without their knowledge. EDIT: Actually I would like to rephrase that last sentence, you aren't bashing the school, sorry for that, but rather still expressing your concern but expressing a concern to the general public that can do absolutely nothing to help you in this matter, whereas talking with the people there, there is at least some hope for resolve.

Talk with whomever is head of the department there and if that doesn't work go to the guy above that.

[Bartek|3D]

This is a VFS thread about the school and people can post their thoughts about the school, so I'm pretty sure it's a valid posting. People talk about companies and their choices on here every single day right? This is a forum for people to talk about the CG industry.
And don't think VFS doesn't know about CGtalk or this thread, because they do.

I do agree this isn't helping us getting the problem resolved, but getting messages out there like this helps people who are thinking of applying here. When I was looking for schools, this is the kind of info I was looking for.

Cheerio,
Bartek


Wow, thanks for expressing the concern and it seems totally valid hopefully VFS will get right now it.... oh wait, this isn't a VFS forum or even remotely connected to the company....

Sorry, but if you want to express concern you should probably actually talk with the people in the company face to face rather then post it on a random(albiet large) internet message board, because at that point you aren't expressing concern but publically bashing a school without their knowledge. EDIT: Actually I would like to rephrase that last sentence, you aren't bashing the school, sorry for that, but rather still expressing your concern but expressing a concern to the general public that can do absolutely nothing to help you in this matter, whereas talking with the people there, there is at least some hope for resolve.

Talk with whomever is head of the department there and if that doesn't work go to the guy above that.

[The_Merch]

True, but I can pretty much guarantee Graeme Gish(previous Head of 3d that moved up to a higher position) or any of the adminstrators from VFS aren't spending there time on Cgtalk, I just don't image any of the instructors with the accept of maybe Nigel(who is now gone) watching cgtalk that closely.

Just in my experiance with any school(I went to both cdis and VFS) or company is you if you have a need, you have to confront it on their level; and that is basically maturely, face to face(cannot stress this enough, e-mails, phone calls, random message board postings aren't respected as much as a one to one chat) and organized.

Just approach them in a mature matter and have your facts straight and maybe even some suggestions to improve the situation and you'll see results; when I was going they had a ta for vfx(josh) that was pretty on the ball, where is he in all this? or the replacement they got?

At least thats what happens in my experiance.

Also, thought you guys dont have internet there now, yet a lot of you still manage to find the time to post often on cgtalk? Can't imagine it being that bad.

[MikeRhone]

I just don't (imagine) any of the instructors with the (acception) of maybe Nigel(who is now gone) watch cgtalk that closely.

Not true, sorry.

m

[Bartek|3D]

We have a list of sites that is permitted.


Also, thought you guys dont have internet there now, yet a lot of you still manage to find the time to post often on cgtalk? Can't imagine it being that bad.

[The_Merch]

So you get preapproved VFS websites and nothing else? Ok, now that is weird.

[BernieK]

hi there!

I'm new to this thread and was trying to find an answer to my question here, but after 15 pages i stopped reading :scream:

so here we go: i'm currently an austrian student at the universal computer arts academy in cape town, but to be honest i'm not too glad about that. everything is going really slowly and you don't feel any pressure (actually all the guys are just playing call of duty or quake in school). so thats why i want to change...

i've read (on page 13 or so :) ) that you don't require any traditional art background (which i unfortunatly don't have...) to join vfs. i want to go for the 3d-animation and visual effects course, and then specialize in vfx.

so has the majority of the students a trad art background or is that not essential.

i know there is the possibility of doing the foundation visual art and design, but i think one course is expensive enough...

thanks for your advise!

[Intervain]

First of all today in the morning the head of department assured us that there will be a VFX mentor starting next week, so you guys should be fine :) Obviously Bartek is right, it's inevitable and I don't blame Mark for leaving - he has his reasons and it was a great opportunity, that's life - I would have done the same. [he didn't leave without notice though, and did nominate some possible replacements so there was time to notify the student body] The problem is once again with the communication between students and staff - honestly also a bit between students themselves 'cause apparently that has been mentioned at the class rep meetings. No matter - the point is there will be a mentor soon, so we're on the right track again!

Bernie - no you really don't need any bg in arts, classical animation or the like. It may help in the course of your studies for sure but most students don't have any - I'm one of them :) Hope that helps.

[BernieK]

well, of course that helps...

got an appointment with an advisor on july 4th...

maybe i see you guys in some time :thumbsup:

[JohnnyAlucarD]

Bernie - no you really don't need any bg in arts, classical animation or the like. It may help in the course of your studies for sure but most students don't have any - I'm one of them :) Hope that helps.[/QUOTE]

Ok that quote partially answers a question I have been dying to ask some of you VFS guys. I ask this particularly of Heber and Pum - I have both of your reels and I have to say they are really, really good. But I really want to know - did you guys (and the guys like you with awesome reels) have much back ground in CG BEFORE you attended VFS? If not, blimey how'd you get so GOOD? Also one of my tutors here tells me that the "cream" of the crop of you guys at VFS are given an extra 6 months to work on your reels before you present them - is that true, did you Heber and Pum have an extra 6 months at VFS to complete your reels or was all of the reel done in standard "term" time - and if so what standard were you at before you guys got to VFS? I hope you don't mind the questions it's just that I would like to know because the course here in NZ is of a comparable length and I am extremely interested in why the standard of the work is seemingly consistantly sky high. Of course I realise that not ALL VFS reels are as good as the ones I have downloaded but I am interested in comparing the results because if the "extra 6 months" is not correct then...hmmm.
So if you guys could kindly answer my question I would be greatful.

[Heber]

hi,
before vfs i used to be a freelance graphic/web designer which eventually lead me to pursue an interestest in cg. I attended Art institue of Van. for a short while in the Character Animation program which was mostly 2d and very little 3d. After that i hit up vfs and pursued modeling and texturing while still learning all the other aspects of cg.
Herbert was a traditional artist who went to kwantlen univ. to study Fine art, He didnt see a career as a traditional artist so he went to vfs to learn 3d , that was his first time touching a computer (hah!) and he learned very quickly how to transfer his skillset to another medium.
Everyone at vfs is given 6 months to make a reel, at the end of the six months you can apply for an aditional 2 months (not 6..) to continue to polish your reel, herbert applied for it and took the extra time, however i decided to start working right away and jumped right into production.
Hope that helps.

[JohnnyAlucarD]

hi,
before vfs i used to be a freelance graphic/web designer which eventually lead me to pursue an interestest in cg. I attended Art institue of Van. for a short while in the Character Animation program which was mostly 2d and very little 3d. After that i hit up vfs and pursued modeling and texturing while still learning all the other aspects of cg.
Herbert was a traditional artist who went to kwantlen univ. to study Fine art, He didnt see a career as a traditional artist so he went to vfs to learn 3d , that was his first time touching a computer (hah!) and he learned very quickly how to transfer his skillset to another medium.
Everyone at vfs is given 6 months to make a reel, at the end of the six months you can apply for an aditional 2 months (not 6..) to continue to polish your reel, herbert applied for it and took the extra time, however i decided to start working right away and jumped right into production.
Hope that helps.


Yes, thanks very much for the reply! That answers a lot of questions, particularly how well you guys made your reels, while I never once thought it was easy - I was curious as to why the VFS reels were/are so good - I guess it's the essentially the same old answers- hard work, determination and talent! I aspire to be as good as you guys (one fine day!) but it's a hard road ahead! I'm practically halfway through my course in NZ at the moment - but certainly don't feel technically that proficient...

[BernieK]

ok, just to make things clear (i know it's a silly question):

does "no art background" mean that you haven't been working as an trad artist but that you have some drawing skills

or does it mean that you have no art background at all, so that you actually haven't been drawing at all in you life... so that you basically CAN'T draw...

cheers
BernieK

[The_Merch]

Bernie- If you've ever doodled in your life, you'll be ok. I mean if you never drew anything at all since maybe kindergarten it wouldn't necesarrily mean you would be bad at 3d, but I'd have to question your motives for wanting to do it.

I didn't have a huge art background, I drew as a kid, I took grade 11 art class, I made websites in highschool when I came to VFS. So really I didn't have liek a proffession background, nor did I do any life drawing or any real "art" before that.

I find that traditional art skills can be transferable and visa versa (Who knew I could sculpt alright after modeling for a year?!) but isn't necessary when starting out. It'll help your artistic style, no doubt about that, but for a lot of people it takes time for it to click to see how life drawing indirectly has a relation to modeling, probably the same with 2d animation and 3d animation.

Before going to VFS I'd either want 1 of 2 things...

1. Technical background(IE: You know how to use a computer and have at least played with a 3d program before, I made things in Bryce!)

2. Artisitic background(IE: Go beyond doodles and start using colour and cleaning up stuff, make concept art or paintings)

I say one of these two things simply because you wont be starting from square 1, which is really tough. If you have technical skills you can learn the package/tools easier and not be frustrated with that and take the time getting better at the art. If you have artistic background you'll probably have a stronger artistic direction, you just might not be familiar with computers(or pcs) and it'll take a bit of time to translate your skills.

Again, all up to the person, as Heber said, Herbert took to translating sculpting skills pretty fast, some people may take more time.

[BernieK]

hi merch - thanks for your answer. well i got actually a really good technical background, and now i'm keen to catch up (at least a little) on my artistic talents. but i feel very comfortable in the 3d space, and in 3d i also can create things easy, i just can't draw this stuff (yet).

well, i think i'm gonna apply for vfs, everything i heard and read sounds just great! and i can use the rest of my study year in south africa (i'm studying 3d-animation in cape town right now) for practicing my 2d-skills.

[Chems]

What about people who arent coming from the US and Canada, have your governments given grants for you to study abroad?

[BernieK]

well first of all you don't need a grant from your government to study abroad, you just need a study permit from the canadian government, and once you got accepted that shouldn't be too much of a problem... (you just need a lot, A LOT of documents in order to apply)

[Chems]

This I know, but when I say grant I mean financial aid, but it seems the UK doesnt support anything like this. :( Not for countries outside of Europe anyway.

[BernieK]

ok, my fault, sorry :scream:

i know what you mean. i'm austrian and also don't get any money from my government...

if you wanna do it get i big fat student loan and go for it, at least that's what i do...

good luck!

[Intervain]

that's what most students do - I had it difficult because in Poland, where I'm from, you don't get student loans of this magnitude LOL just tiny sums of money you can repay immediately - no one trusts you to thousands of dollars, so I had to get one from a US bank ... a lot of hussle but I still think it's worth it in the end. VFS was my goal and I made sure I'd get here :) It's taken me over 6 months though!http://cgtalk.com/images/smilies/eek.gif

[KOKE]

Hi people, the time is coming for me as I start my course at VFS in Oct 05, in little time I will start looking for housing, it would be cool to share housing with fellow VFS students (lots of CG haha).
So if someone is in the same situation as me, maybe we could talk and look for a place to share (or maybe someone already has a place and need a flat mate).

At the moment my plans include arriving at vancouver a couple of weeks before staring the course and looking for a suitable place to live once im there.

It would be cool if some VFS veteran could give me some tips about finding housing in vancouver, like where is a good place to start looking and so on.

J.K

:D

[PHO 75]

I was in the same situation a few months back. When it comes down to it it's really hard to find a decent place if you're not here. most of my classmates who had a place lined up before arriving ended up living pretty far from school. The best thing to do is to be here a few weeks early and do it in person. there are a lot of nice places close to the school but it will usually be posted locally and if it's shared accomodations then your roommate will want to meet you before giving you the place. there are spots around town that will have apartment postings pinned up and those are usually really good because they're new and it's usually availble immediately. Also craigslist.org is a good resource, there are a lot of new listings daily since it is free. stay with a friend or in a hostel and do this in person, you'll be much happier with your place and it is really really nice to live within walking distance to the school, trust me it will come in handy.

[pum]

koke: ok, this one is for you and its pretty important:
you need to find a place to live really close to school! if you a night owl and like to work the whole night, i suggest you find a place to live within a walking distance.
before, our campus was on the other location, and on that campus, the scurity didnt mind much if we slept on the couch there. But the security in the new building is an ass.
I lived like 45 min from school, i had to take train and bus to go to campus, but the transit in vancouver stops around 12 30ish( the train) so I got stuck at school.
If you can find a place really close to school, it will be the best.
Try finding apt in pacific st, I know some of vfs 3d51 lived on that st, and the rent isnt bad, its around $900 a month, but u can split it with a roomate.
lemme know ifu have further Q

[Loukor]

Hey Herbert Lowis thanks for the info, I am going to attend VFS soon (August Term).I am going for Tradition Arts for the first term and then 3d Animations & modelling for the second term so it's going to be tough! I have a place (10 min walk) very close to VFS and its a nice place (Haro St). I can't wait to start learning at VFS... lol I can't sleep because im so excited.

Hewbert Lowis I have a few question to ask you if you don't mind,

1. Before starting 3D animations & modelling at VFS, did you know anything about 3D animations or modelling before coming to VFS?

2. If yes (to Question 1), how would a intermediate do in VFS 3D animation & modelling?

3. From a scale of 1-10 how would you rate VFS?


I think thats all for now, If anyone else is going to VFS starting August and want's to talk about VFS or other stuff... pm me!

[rblitz7]

Damn! VFS looks real good but ill only be 18 when its time to apply. Im 16 now and my birthday is in July. Any suggestions on how I could get around this?

[pum]

kdkaos: Q no 1: not AT ALL, lol , i remember bugging Heber on everything. Dude, I didnt even know what the hell polygon or wireframe was. I only knew photoshop like couple months before that, and I had never used a tablet before in my life. Term 1 is going to be a bit tough if you dont know the basic in 3d program. If you know how to create a basic geometry or set a key, you should be alrite. For me, I kept asking a lot of questions, esp to Heber and to the instructors. Take notes, thats important, and try not to skip any class at all. Since the program is very intense, missing a day means u can miss a lot of info. But like I said, if you know the basic 3d package, term 1 should be very easy for you.

Q no 3, I cant really scale it, but hell, I enjoyed VFS so much. it was so intense and all, but you know, during the term break, my class partied a lot. So it was a good break. All my firends at vfs are really amazing so that made my time at VFS very very enjoyable. It was intense, but it was a lot of good times! :)

HB

[pum]

Damn! VFS looks real good but ill only be 18 when its time to apply. Im 16 now and my birthday is in July. Any suggestions on how I could get around this?
what do you mean? my english is bad, sorry :)

[rblitz7]

what do you mean? my english is bad, sorry :)

On the VFS website it says you have to be 19.
http://www.vfs.com/admissions.php?region=US

[pum]

On the VFS website it says you have to be 19.
http://www.vfs.com/admissions.php?region=US
"Proof that you are at least 19 years of age or have graduated high school. "
or have graduated high school

[KOKE]

Thanks Pum!! i will listen to your advice and try to find something in a walking distance from VFS because I am one of those night owls.... lol.

I cant wait to start the course.



:D

[rblitz7]

"Proof that you are at least 19 years of age or have graduated high school. "
or have graduated high school
oh haha, sorry.

[Loukor]

I am 17 years old and I feel like im going to VFS too soon but... oh well lol. Starting with the August Term "Foundation Program" for 1 year and then 3D animations & modelling for the second year.

IM SO EXCITED :O

[AndriusCLS]

Waste of Money. I graduated with Class 29 from their Fulltime 3d Animation and Digital Effects Course. You can do it on your own self taught for cheaper if you buy a student copy of Maya, buy a few Gnomon videos and a book. VFS, CDIS etc they are a nice waste of $$$.

Yes I do work in the Industry now but not because of VFS. It was due to personal training after using Gnomon Videos and Tutorials found here on CGtalk.com.

[tofumaster]

somewhat agree with AndriusCLS (http://forums.cgsociety.org/member.php?u=62798) vbmenu_register("postmenu_2584648", true); , even though, i don't think i have wasted my money because i made alot friends and most of them are working in the industry now. YES i agree the school is totally waste of time and money, all my class in 2nd year was all review for me. i think the things that is far more important than what the instructor taught me was where to look, and what else i am lack off. that was very important for self-teaching, and now i know what to improve.

[Stance]

Well it looks like I will be attending VFS this October. It was touch and go for awhile as I was not sure how to pay for it all. I am happy to say my loan came through! YES!

I have been reading this thread occasionally to try to get a better understanding of the VFS experience. I have read some bad points of view that were certainly a concern but have also read much more positive experiences. Needless to say, the negative points though valid did not deter me.

I just wanted to say hello to all VFS graduates and to my fellow classmates that I will meet next month in the 3DAnim&VisualFX program. I wish I were there already!

[SeliScorp]

Can any new students of VFS tell me if they have aquired new computers? I just want to verify what an advisor told me a couple weeks ago (that they were just putting 30 new computers together). Thanks!

[Arrghman]

Can any new students of VFS tell me if they have aquired new computers? I just want to verify what an advisor told me a couple weeks ago (that they were just putting 30 new computers together). Thanks!

The labs are now filled with 90 computers, so Term 4 and 5 are (finally) no longer sharing. :thumbsup: Last term I had to sit at a different computer every day, now I'm at the same one all the time... it's nice to have a consistant workspace.

[SeliScorp]

That's great news! You've just helped me make my decision, thanks so much. :)

[BuendiaCG]

I start next month the 3d animation and vfx program, Im very exited, Im getting a new computer next month, what kind of new computers did they get at vfs? (ram memory, graphic card, procesor, etc). I hope I do well at this school, most demos I've seen from vfs are great, I think is the school with the best demos i have seen, and I did a lot of research, Ive been at two schools already, the toronto film school, wich it was nice, I did learn some very good stuff there. and I went to iadt in tampa for about 9 months, that school sucks, but this one looks like is going to be the best, is the one I wanted to go in the first place. I think is going to be worth it, im moving to vancouver this saturday, never been there, but I think im going to like it, cant wait to start.
see you all at orientation!.
cheers.

Alvaro

[Heber]

I start next month the 3d animation and vfx program, Im very exited, Im getting a new computer next month, what kind of new computers did they get at vfs? (ram memory, graphic card, procesor, etc). I hope I do well at this school, most demos I've seen from vfs are great, I think is the school with the best demos i have seen, and I did a lot of research, Ive been at two schools already, the toronto film school, wich it was nice, I did learn some very good stuff there. and I went to iadt in tampa for about 9 months, that school sucks, but this one looks like is going to be the best, is the one I wanted to go in the first place. I think is going to be worth it, im moving to vancouver this saturday, never been there, but I think im going to like it, cant wait to start.
see you all at orientation!.
cheers.

Alvaro

hi alvaro, im a graduate from their 3d program .
solid choice imo.
The computers they use are dual intel xeon workstations with nividia quadro card and 2.5gb of ram. You will love vancouver too bad you missed the beautiful summer but now winter is coming and this place has some of the best mountains to ski/snowboard on. Enjoy!
Mucha Suerte con todo!
-heber 3d50

The labs are now filled with 90 computers, so Term 4 and 5 are (finally) no longer sharing. :thumbsup: Last term I had to sit at a different computer every day, now I'm at the same one all the time... it's nice to have a consistant workspace.

bleh,, term 4/5 have had to share computers ever since vfs started haha...you should feel lucky you never had to deal with those old dinosaurs when i was in term 1-3 all we had were these really old computers...nearly impossible to work on...not kidding..

[Arrghman]

bleh,, term 4/5 have had to share computers ever since vfs started haha...you should feel lucky you never had to deal with those old dinosaurs when i was in term 1-3 all we had were these really old computers...nearly impossible to work on...not kidding..

Believe me, I do :eek: I really don't understand how they went so long with term 5/6 sharing computers, I've been hearing people complaining about it for at least four months on a regular basis before they finally got the new machines.

What's funny is, even with all the new computers... there's still never enough for everyone to render on!

[GallenWolf]

Hi!
I'm curious, what equipment do you guys use to shoot the live plates for the vfx reels?

Alvin

[moraisins]

hi all,

I am considering VFS because I am 28 and have already gone to a 4-year college. Those of you who are already or have been there...would VFS be a good school for me to go to in terms of all-around education in 3D and art? I would like a school that balances an extensive amount of art classes with their 3D training. Please let me know if you can.

thanks!
moraisins

[trence5]

well, they say you need a portfolio, and I supplied one, but judging from some of my classmates, lets just say that a few of them didn't know how to draw, animate, or use a computer... you figure it out. these people also tended to be the ones that figured out the online chat and then proceded to sit and spend they're 24k talking to friends all day, go figure.SHEEEESH:D :D

[trence5]

I was wondering how much prior knowledge a person should have going into it. I really enjoy drawing, but don't consider myself an excellent artist. I do alot of doodling coming up with creative and intresting ideas. I have extensive knowledge with photoshop with textures and creating original, mainly enviormental, images with that.

As far as 3D design goes, im very limited. Im basically just teaching my self stuff, I gone through a few tutorials, but haven't found anything that realy allows me to advance my knowleadge. I do absolutly love it, it without a doubt what I want to do. I spent a year in computer science at a university, but know thats not what I want to do.

Im just really looking to gain an understanding of where a person should be heading into such a school. (obviously as knowledgable as possible) How much prior 3D experince do you NEED, and how artistic do you need to be. I have the desire, and I have the work ethic to go, but at what point should a person sit back and wait? When I go I want to be the best after wards, I don't want to walk in and find Im over my head.

Thanks for any response.Wow, you almost sound like me:thumbsup: :thumbsup: . 'Cept I don't have the money to get to Canada, and VFS even less:sad: , so I'm looking at all the info on different schools as much as I can:shrug:

[newcenturydsn]

Originally Posted by leTigre

I was wondering how much prior knowledge a person should have going into it. I really enjoy drawing, but don't consider myself an excellent artist. I do alot of doodling coming up with creative and intresting ideas. I have extensive knowledge with photoshop with textures and creating original, mainly enviormental, images with that.

As far as 3D design goes, im very limited. Im basically just teaching my self stuff, I gone through a few tutorials, but haven't found anything that realy allows me to advance my knowleadge. I do absolutly love it, it without a doubt what I want to do. I spent a year in computer science at a university, but know thats not what I want to do.

Im just really looking to gain an understanding of where a person should be heading into such a school. (obviously as knowledgable as possible) How much prior 3D experince do you NEED, and how artistic do you need to be. I have the desire, and I have the work ethic to go, but at what point should a person sit back and wait? When I go I want to be the best after wards, I don't want to walk in and find Im over my head.

Thanks for any response.
If you don't REALLY, REALLY, REALLY love art, drawing, or something along those lines, and are just looking for a way to blow 50 or 60,000 dollars than hey right on have fun, but unless you have the creative talent to be able to come up with totally out there original ideas on pretty much a daily basis you're probably looking into the wrong field, try web design or something it's alot cheaper.
Sorry to burst any bubbles, but I would give my...well pretty much the whole left side of my body to go to VFS, and it pisses me off that the people that get to go have the money but have no idea what the F**K they are doing!

Sorry, call me bitter

[Igo]

and it pisses me off that the people that get to go have the money but have no idea what the F**K they are doing!

I have both, so do a lot of people, and some people dont even have the money, they are in debt to the school because the bank rejected their second loans. I have a friend who's 80K in debt right now still working his ass off daily to try and get his shit done so he can geta job and start paying that huge life time debt off.

I'd say about 1 in every 9 people fall under your description, but that's considerably small compared to most other places.

[MikeRhone]

and it pisses me off that the people that get to go have the money but have no idea what the F**K they are doing!

Unfortunately this is the nature of life, and has nothing to do with the school. The school is a buisness. As a buisness its primary goal is to make money. On the flip side however, when the school pumps out great students, more students will come along. If the school pumps out crap, then... the school dies. It is always going to be a balancing act, so schools will always take the BEST artists they can find... if they can pay the tuition. VFS does a great job of both. It pumps out anough great talent to be argueably the top CG school out there currently, and lets the occasional joker through.

Most other successful schools VFS will let the odd "Mommy paid my way class clown" through. It happens in universties, politics, and 3d animation schools. I have seen many great cg people run out of money and have to drop out of school while a couple of "Mommy paid my way" classmates are play wrestling and surfing dating chat rooms. It is a sad, crappy fact of life. These people are disliked by staff and students alike, so worry not: the ones that dont put in the effort never make it to the industry anyways. Luckily our industry has a filter called TALENT. Without that little nugget, your family can pay all that they want and they will still never find themselves a desk near me or anyone else in the industry.

My time as a student at VFS was great, and this was back in 98/99. I still see some of the former classmate goof offs from time to time, and they never got thier first job. The dedicated ones I see are some of top local and global artists. All for simply working hard...

...and paying tuition.

-m

[newcenturydsn]

I have both, so do a lot of people, and some people dont even have the money, they are in debt to the school because the bank rejected their second loans. I have a friend who's 80K in debt right now still working his ass off daily to try and get his shit done so he can geta job and start paying that huge life time debt off.

I'd say about 1 in every 9 people fall under your description, but that's considerably small compared to most other places.

Hey, that's right on for you. And there's probably 8 in every 9 people that fall under your discription, money wise I mean. I'm not tryin' to start nothin' it just bothers me that those of us that are a little less fortunate than others, want it so bad and just can't get there especially because of such a petty thing as money.

I don't know, I suppose I don't have much say in the matter...I've made my bed, and now I'll lie in it....But that's a story for another day.

Oh yeah...I did say call me bitter did I not?

~~LaterZ~~

[sunnytec]

...................

[Rens]

EDIT: Whoops! I read your post to quickly and assumed you were talking about the 3D Animation & VFX course.
I don't know that much about the six months Character Animation course but it seems to be decent though I get the feeling it might be too short. Depends on what you want to get out of it I guess. Sorry can't help you much on that one.

___ (original post) ___

It's worth it if you really want to be a character animator and can afford the money. Especially since the prices have gone up dramatically over the last few months/years.
But it's not about the certificate, it's about the demo reel you'll be working on for the last six months of your time there and it's that reel that you'll send to companies.

The school itself is awesome. I've attended a lot of schools (non-CG though) and this is by far the best one. Sure there are some problems here and there but most are minor and generally things seem to go very well for a school.

It is only a year and even though it is an extremely intensive year you will only get the basics of things as drawing and other traditional media. I think to get the most out of this course you'll probably want to get a good drawing/art course. Get a good grip of composition, colour, creative workflow and art in general or even 2D animation. That will help you a lot later on, especially if you want to be very good later on. If you're good at 2D (drawing, etc.) than you don't need to be good at knowing 3D because if you know the principles behind it then for the most part you'll only have to learn a different tool.
Also a computer science course would be helpful (though not necessary!) and you can also pick up a bit if scripting if you have the mind for it because that can help you a lot in your workflow.

[sunnytec]

.............

[trence5]

I'm not tryin' to start nothin' it just bothers me that those of us that are a little less fortunate than others, want it so bad and just can't get there especially because of such a petty thing as money. I definately feel you on that one.... I'd kill to get to VFS:scream: .

[drclare]

So, I keep seeing posts about the tuition be $40,000 and up, yet on the VFS website it says that the 3d animation and visual effects program is $29,000 Canadian dollars. Why the discrepency in what people here are saying?

[urgaffel]

It's 29k Canadian dollars for canadians. If you're from abroad, it's 29k USD. Really shitty system to be honest...

[Poopz]

Well, i think im set. im planning to start the VFS VFX and 3d animation program this June. im real excited to start. up until this point i have been teaching myself. hopefully by going to school i will have teachers and students that can help me out with the little things that really make the difference in fulling understanding the tools of the feild. at the same time im a little scared, its a bit of a risk going to vancouver and training to go into a competitive industry. but i suppose its worth it to find out weather i can make the grade in a industry that i enjoy so much. i feel like even if i dont get a job working in digital arts i would be happy doing 3d as a hobby on the side.


-andy

[Igo]

Tuition has gone up, not sure if its on the site but if you're thinking it's $29K you better nearly double it.

As for worries coming out, if you put the most into the school and have a good solind/strong demo reel, the only thing you need to worry about is interviewing, working visas and whether or not companies are hiring at the time.

I feel I got lucky getting stuck in an awesome class, and it seems like people usually get stuck in the class they belong, personality/talent wise, but it's something else that helps out a TON and it's something you cant control at all.

It's far from perfect, they make some dumb decisions, and they have tough competition, but the school is good enough for anyone who's smart, talented, and/or hard working to get work afterwards.

[bleumoon]

It's 29k Canadian dollars for canadians. If you're from abroad, it's 29k USD. Really shitty system to be honest...

Actually, it's worse than that. Foreign students pay about twice what Canadian students pay. Currently the 3D animation program is 29.5k for Canadians and 46.75k for foreigners. I just paid my tuition to start in August so I can vouch that it deffinately is not 29k USD, I only wish that were the case :cry:.

Tuition is different for each program. Here's the links if you want the full breakdown (all prices in CAD):

for Canadians (http://www.vfs.com/admissions.php?region=Canada&section=tuition)
for everyone else (http://www.vfs.com/admissions.php?region=International&section=tuition)

[borreguito]

Hello everybody, it is the first time that I respond to a thread in cgtalk, but I read it everyday. the question to answer in this thread is because I am going away within a month to vancouver to make the course of 3D at vfs.
I have many doubts, among them those to look for apartment or room, not that to do as it is the best way to look for, I go away there or I do it by means of vfs.

a greeting.

[maunilpatel]

can some one please answer my question?
are all the programs regarding 3d animation ... are less then a year or 1 year?
and do you graduate with degree? or is this just a program?

[M.E.L.]

This varies based on the school. Most animation programs these days are the 8 month whirl-wind courses that suck students and spit them back out with a couple models on their reels and visions of 6 figures, ferrari's and fame. The only program I know of that extends farther in Canada is Sheridan College which offers a 4 year degree program in Animation though I haven't heard much in recent years about them.

Bottom line is... the days of "what school did they go to?" are well gone, when I look at a resume I don't care if you went to Harvard or community college; we all want to see that you have talent, are willing to learn, open minded and know kung-fu better than Jet Li. School is what you make it, that's the key to getting the most out of your learning. Remember that :)

-s

[diginime]

Hi everyone,i've read the threads and i also planning to go VFS.I just hae a couple questions to ask here:
1)What program that VFS teach in animation and visual effects?Because i'm a Maya user.
2)Does the portfolio really important for getting into VFS?Because my drawing skill was not so good...
3)Then i saw on the website that the applicant must at least 19 years old,i'm only 18 year old and i just graduated from my secondary school,can i still apply it?
4)(Transcripts from any secondary or post-secondary institutions attended in the last 5yrs.)What does this mean?
If you know more about the school can tell me more about it?
THX A LOT !!!

[Arrghman]

Hi everyone,i've read the threads and i also planning to go VFS.I just hae a couple questions to ask here:
1)What program that VFS teach in animation and visual effects?Because i'm a Maya user.
2)Does the portfolio really important for getting into VFS?Because my drawing skill was not so good...
3)Then i saw on the website that the applicant must at least 19 years old,i'm only 18 year old and i just graduated from my secondary school,can i still apply it?
4)(Transcripts from any secondary or post-secondary institutions attended in the last 5yrs.)What does this mean?
If you know more about the school can tell me more about it?
THX A LOT !!!

1) They use XSI in classes for the first 6 months. The VFX people use Maya for their reel. But if you feel more comfortable in Maya, they're not going to stop you from doing animation or anything in it for your reel.

2) Portfolio really doesn't matter. I couldn't draw before I went and I still ain't so good at it! I have a feeling that they didn't really look much at my 3D portfolio either.

3) I think there have been people who were 18 there. Best to contact them about it.

4) They just want all of your academic transcripts and stuff.

[Intervain]

as to 1) it changed a bit - they're teaching Maya and XSI - just started giving more time to Maya as well as XSI, and like Lee said, it's eventually your choice which software you utilize to produce the final reel! :)

there definitely were people there right after high school!

[digikris]

Two days ago and enquired about VFS 3d animation and Visual effects. Its 46K for foreigners. With that money honestly i will buy a kickass Boxx tech Apex 4 with 8 dual core cpus and Maya floating version, Combustion (compositing) and get all the dvds from Gnomon School and sign up for paltinum membership in all sites and just dedicate night and day fulltime horn my skills.

[digikris]

Two days ago and enquired about VFS 3d animation and Visual effects. Its 46K for foreigners. With that money honestly i will buy a kickass Boxx tech Apex 4 with 8 dual core cpus and Maya floating version, Combustion (compositing) and get all the dvds from Gnomon School and sign up for paltinum membership in all sites and just dedicate night and day fulltime and horn my skills and create a good demo reel by the end of three months.


Or

Even lease those systems its cheaper than buying it and have own copy of software.

But you need to have dedication.

[bleumoon]

Two days ago and enquired about VFS 3d animation and Visual effects. Its 46K for foreigners. With that money honestly i will buy a kickass Boxx tech Apex 4 with 8 dual core cpus and Maya floating version, Combustion (compositing) and get all the dvds from Gnomon School and sign up for paltinum membership in all sites and just dedicate night and day fulltime and horn my skills and create a good demo reel by the end of three months.

That's a very valid point digi, but you could say this about any art school . . . or hell, about school in general. There's not much out there that I would say you MUST go to school to learn. So, is school just a waste of time and money? Some might think so, but I don't.

First, if you look at the price it's in CAD, so for Americans the total comes in around $38k USD. If you look around the tuition is right on par with other private schools. Also, consider that it's for a FULL year (not many breaks) where as other schools may only be in session for part of the year, and you have to pay extra for summer. Also, the price includes everything as well as books and supplies. There are no computer and lab fees, studio fees, rental fees, additional course fees etc . . . I could walk down to the lab and ask for a pencil if I wanted. When you compare the tuition to other schools it is reasonable. Plus, at other schools you might be looking at 2-4 years. It all adds up in the end.

Second, there are a lot of intangibles that school offers that you just don't get from studying alone. The school nurtures a creative learning environment. I equate learning 3D to learning to play a musical instrument. Yes, you can learn it on your own but it’s easier, faster, and more enjoyable to learn if you take lessons from a teacher and play in a band or orchestra.

Also, don’t underestimate the value of having classmates. They are one of the best resources that the school offers. They provide you the ability to socialize and create friendships, as well as offer help, guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. I would have to say I have learned as much if not more from my fellow classmates than from the classes themselves.

Furthermore, your classmates and teachers will become industry contacts when you graduate. Having these contacts and references just might be as important as having a good demo reel.

Being enrolled in school qualifies me to receive deferred payment low interest educational loans. This means that I do not have to work while going to school. If I wanted to study at home I would have to work to pay the bills. It’s hard to stay focused and motivated after a hard day on the job. It’s easy to let things slide if you don’t have hard deadlines for your projects.

Of course going to school will not guarantee that you’ll be able to find a job after you graduate, but I’d have to think you’d have a better chance getting into the industry going to a school than if you stayed at home. Why would you not want to put yourself in the best possible situation to succeed?

These are just some things to think about, as the choice to go to school should not solely be based on monetary concerns.

[Arrghman]

First, if you look at the price it's in CAD, so for Americans the total comes in around $38k USD.

That's closer to $41k USD right now... and rising, the way things are going with the exchange rate. Something to consider for people coming in from the US as the USD keeps dropping in value.

[faridz7]

Slightly going off topic over here guys but correct me if im wrong eh but from the quality of reels that VFS student produces over the years...it just seems to me that VFS is much more geared towards modelling and texturing and less towards character animation itself (exclude VFX cause ive not done any research so to speak bout their VFX courses) as opposed to lets say..AAU

would appreciate the feedback regarding this from past/present/future VFS students

[diginime]

i saw on the web that after half year have to choose a major right?among modeling,animation and visual effects,which one is the best?I can't make the decision...

[faridz7]

i saw on the web that after half year have to choose a major right?among modeling,animation and visual effects,which one is the best?I can't make the decision...

dude...come on. seriously?? i mean, even if you post that question in 10 forums, no one can answer that for you except yourself. look and take note of your own strengths. geeez.

[Arrghman]

One thing VFS does with animation reels that I sort of disagree with is they push the animators into doing a short film instead of animation exercises and for my class the animators pretty much spent the first two months of their reel work doing animatics and doing very little actual animation until the end of that. The reason they did that was animation assignments can't be festival pieces so they don't make as good publicity for the school.

I think they were planning on changing the structure of the animation stream so that the animatics would be done earlier and I'm pretty sure the animation mentor who was there when I was there is now gone. So I don't know if they've changed the way they do things. There is a certain merit to the way they did things as it does help the animators get a good handle on how to tell stories... but then you contrast it with, say, the modeling stream where we pretty much were doing our first model the day we started working on our reels.

I don't think that this hurt all the animators, but I think some of them tended to get bogged down because of this... not everyone who's an animator is necessarily good at storyboarding and making animatics.

But that's just my own observations.. I'm not an animator, so maybe someone else will have a different opinion! And I graduated VFS at the end of last year, so I may be a little out of date too :)

[diginime]

Does VFS lead to degree?If not,is there any school offer degree for 3D animation and visual effects.

[seba108]

Hello everyone!

I'll start the 3D-animation and VFX program this August and I'm really looking forward to it. Is there anyone else who starts that time? I would like to get to know some of my classmates before that.
I visited VFS and VanArts in March... VanArts seemed like a nice place, but I was more impressed with VFS.
I'm also looking for a roommate... so feel free to mail me...

-Sebastian Söderlund

[faridz7]

Does VFS lead to degree?If not,is there any school offer degree for 3D animation and visual effects.

dude. i dont wanna sound rude nor do i intend to but youve opened up a topic asking the same question before. i believe the reply you got told you to go here:

http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?t=69427

seriously man.

[bleumoon]

Awesome Sebastian, it looks like we'll be classmates. I'm heading to Vancouver in early August in order to try to get everything squared away before the craziness starts. For right now I have housing set up with Bell Services (http://www.bellacc.com/), but I'm not commited until I accept a place so who knows.

It's nice meeting you, and welcome to the forums. Feel free to shoot me an email if you ever want to chat about anything. Well this goes for everyone not just Sebastian :scream:. Other than that I guess I'll see you in August.

[Helgi]

I'm going to VFS in the 3D Animation & Visual Effects program this october, 23rd to be exact. I'm still looking for a room for rent or a roommate, also I've never been to Vancouver so I'm pretty excited to go... only a few more months to go :)

But yeah you guys were talking about that spending 46k on a school is just a waste of money, I have to agree that it's a bit expensive, but if you'd buy a brand new BOXX, a licensed Maya, Combustion and all that stuff and do that all on your own at you own house you'd still lack the support and the inspiration in working in teams with your classmates and just the enormous amount of experience you have at hand with your instructors. You'll also get extremely much of contacts and job offerings at the end of the program... which you won't get as much of working at home, alone in your bedroom.

[borreguito]

Hello, I´m going to vfs in June, but I am not very satisfied still, I come from Madrid - Spain, and to ask for the visa have to do it in Paris -france. and I don´t know if it is going to come to me in time to be able to leave.

I am very nervous.

I also am searching companion to share apartment.

[diginime]

I'm going to VFS in the 3D Animation & Visual Effects program this october, 23rd to be exact. I'm still looking for a room for rent or a roommate, also I've never been to Vancouver so I'm pretty excited to go... only a few more months to go :)

Hi there,maybe we can make a fren!I most probably will go VFS this October too.But i'm waiting for reply abut some enquiry...

[digikris]

bleumoon and DogSter,

Agreed about the inspiration that you get in classroom environment and working with classmates and getting contacts.

Personally my condition is different than yours. So i would take that route than yours.

But guys, i remember those days of working with fellow classmates its fun and inspirational I do have the money to pay the fee but don't have money for accomodation and etc.

All the best both of you.

[Igo]

Borreguito, you can get your study permit at the Airport, I did it, you just need to bring your acceptance letter, proof of support (that you can afford to stay), your passport, some medical information, blah blah, there's a lsit somewhere. so if it doesnt come to yah on time, just do it at the airport, only cost yah $125'ish Canadian. As for living arrangements...

Bell Services is complete ASS. They overcharge you, put you in a place totally inconvienient, and the places suck. The only good thing about them is you sign on for the first 3 months only so you can get there early, square things away, look for another place, start school, probably find a classmate who lives close and has everything (lucky me) THEN you can get the hell out. They're unfriendly, unprofessional (left me at the airport, didnt pick up their phone, left my keys in an envelope taped to my fuggin DOOR) and try to charge you for everything while not giving two shits that your hot water is gone, your computer (their internet station) is dead, and that your bike has no place to stay except out front with a "Steal me" sign left on it even though there's plenty of room in MY room, I wasnt allowed to, F that. Only use them if you cant find another place, sign on for the 3 months only, and get out.

As for the money, my past year and a half (went through the 3D program and am now taking Houdini) you cant put a price on the fun you had, the experieince, the family you made, the contacts, the friends you gained and lost, the inspiration, the summer in VC, the fireworks, downtown, the hot Asian girls at PLUSH on Brazillian bikini night, and everything else. It's impossible to explain, it's retarded actually, it's awesome, its the best experieince of my life, even though somedays I wanted to kill myself. You'll experience everything here, you cant get that anywhere else.

I oughta post my class documentry I spent a solid week of every waking second on with my classmate Jeff...

[diginime]

In modeling stream,does the lecturer teach VFX?Then what are they focus more in modeling stream compare to VFX?

[bleumoon]

mooingCow: Holy crap, thanks for the heads up David. Ouch, that sounds like a total nightmare. I was sort of wondering if Cambie and Broadway was REALLY the closest that I could get to the school, and lately they haven't responded to my emails which concerns me. Luckily I have some time, and I'll have to think more seriously about Plan-B. Dammit you Plan-A, you're always falling through (shakes fist).

I'd love to see your documentary. It's nice to get as much insider information about what I just got myself into :scream:. All I really know is that I'm ready to work. I'm refilling my Mountain Dew IV's from college as we speak :D. Sleep is overrated anyway . . . oh hell, who am I kidding? I'm going to miss sleeping in :cry:.

[MikeRhone]

If you're stuck for a place to stay, there are a few hostels around the area. One is REALLY close to VFS. Maybe you could get in touch withem and work out a short term plan:

Hostelling international to VFS 3d Campus Map (http://maps.google.com/maps?saddr=1114+Burnaby+Street,+Vancouver,+BC+V6E+1P1,+Canada+(Hostelling+International-Vancouver)+%4049.279731,-123.132751&daddr=1380+Burrard+St,+Vancouver,+BC,+Canada&f=li&hl=en&dq=Hostelling+international+Vancouver&cid=49250494,-123111934,6366360681275967453&om=1)

Hostels website (http://www.hihostels.ca/hostels/BC/BCRegion/VancouverDowntown/Hostels/)

Good site for places to rent (http://www.mybcrental.com/)

Funnily enough, he new 3d campus is in the same office as where I got my first studio job.

Best of luck to you! Find a place to live in a new town is usually the scariest part. Once you have been there for a few days you will be able to figure out the good from the bad areas, and should be confident with the transit system.

I'de love to see the documentary as well! I have video from my time at VFS In 98-99:4 am with discounted burger king food and chair races down the hall when the security gaurds weren't looking. ;)

[Rens]

- If you're staying at Hostelling International then wave up. I'm looking at their back entrance as we speak. :D

Send a PM to Urgaffel (http://forums.cgsociety.org/member.php?userid=126) if you'd like to know what the place is like, I think he stayed there for a while.

- You won't get a degree at the 3D program. You get a certificate plus a reel you can send to companies.

- Lee: Yea they're trying to change the structure of the animation stream a bit, more animation models and props for those who need them for example. Yep the mentor you're talking about left. The mentor who used to teach here before him came back, she's pretty awesome.

- They've hired a couple of very talented people for the VFX stream lately. Things are looking good for that stream now.

- Diginime: The modeling mentor teaches mostly modeling and rendering, animation mentor teaches animation, VFX mentor teaches VFX. Plus you have different classes in each stream; sculpture in modeling, acting in animation (awesome!), and compositing/advanced maya in VFX. The schedule is set up so that you can attend most classes in the other streams.

[diginime]

so...in modeling got cover about some of the VFX?i heard that modeler paid less than VFX,is it true?

[Igo]

Bleu, dont worry about it, I mean, 3 months isnt that bad, it's a place to start and you can get out fast. Most, if not all, places make you sign a 6 or 12 month lease, so 3 month isnt so bad. But they should have something better for current students to be in touch more with students coming in, in terms of housing, because a lot of people room with someone in a different term and have to find someone else pretty fast, near the end of a term, and who better then someone who just came in?

But yah, sitting it out ina hostel until you get started sounds like a good plan. There's always places close by the campus (Im a block and a half away, some are spitting distance) and you can usually find a place once you start walking around.

Digi, are you asking that if you go into the VFX stream do you have to pay more then the modelers? No, if you mean when you get out, that's a pretty retarded question.

[Dr Dardis]

mooingCow: Holy crap, thanks for the heads up David. Ouch, that sounds like a total nightmare. I was sort of wondering if Cambie and Broadway was REALLY the closest that I could get to the school, and lately they haven't responded to my emails which concerns me. Luckily I have some time, and I'll have to think more seriously about Plan-B. Dammit you Plan-A, you're always falling through (shakes fist).

I'd love to see your documentary. It's nice to get as much insider information about what I just got myself into :scream:. All I really know is that I'm ready to work. I'm refilling my Mountain Dew IV's from college as we speak :D. Sleep is overrated anyway . . . oh hell, who am I kidding? I'm going to miss sleeping in :cry:.

Hey Blue moon :)

I am here at the VFS at the moment with Dave and Rens. I found housing pretty easy. I looked on craigslist (www.craigslist.org (http://www.craigslist.org)) and just started speaking to people there, and found a nice place in Kitsilano. That is a great suburb just across the bridge from the 3d campus, beautiful and green, close to everything (especially the beach).

I found with Craigslist it was a bit more effort on my part, but you are dealing with PEOPLE rather than an agency, and the people are your future housemates. Plus its mostly cool relaxed folk on the list (aside from the uptight vegan hippie types;)). It has the added benefit that when you arrive and know no-one, you have someone to have a beer with and show you the ropes. Helps counter the isolation/loneliness thang. Also good hanging out with Non-CG folk to give you perspective sometimes :).

As for Kits, can't say anything bad about it. Sometimes when it's 4 in the morning and you are just finishing up, it is a bit of a hassle to walk that little bit further, but the walk is beautiful, and at that time of night it can be just the kind of meditation needed to clear your mind of vertex's and f-curves :thumbsup:

anway, food for thought

Chris

[anibal187]

Bell Services is complete ASS...
To be fair, I had a really different experience with them. The place they get for you is good enough for the first month(s) you get there.
I consider unconfortable jumping around Hostels trying to find a place to live in Vancover being an international student.
For them to pick you at the airpoirt you have to pay an extra ammount. In my opinion is just not worth it. You can get a cab. It's cheaper and easier.

[KEdwards]

Hey Rens,

I'm curious about the VFX Stream but have heard "issues" about it's lack of talented instructors for the past year or so...

You mentioned that they have brought in some new blood. Could you tell me who and what their background is?

Thanks!

Kev

[Intervain]

as to what Dave said about getting the visa at the airport - afraid it works for the US citizens and not many others :) But it took me an hour at the embassy so there shouldn't be problems!

[diginime]

Digi, are you asking that if you go into the VFX stream do you have to pay more then the modelers? No, if you mean when you get out, that's a pretty retarded question.
no...i din mean that...i were asking that in VFX stream does the lecturer teach modeling?Coz i am planning which stream i wan to take.

[Rens]

Hey Rens,

I'm curious about the VFX Stream but have heard "issues" about it's lack of talented instructors for the past year or so...

You mentioned that they have brought in some new blood. Could you tell me who and what their background is?

Thanks!

Kev
Hey Kev,

Here are most of the current teachers:
http://www.vfs.com/faculty.php?id=7

This is one of the recently hired guys helping out the VFX people, he's awesome, setting up workshops for everybody and such:
http://www.vfs.com/faculty.php?id=7&staff_id=578

This is the other, only met him twice or so, but he's a nice guy and really knows his stuff:
http://www.vfs.com/faculty.php?id=7&staff_id=640


no...i din mean that...i were asking that in VFX stream does the lecturer teach modeling?
Short answer, no. There's an Advanced Maya class for VFX people, the teacher may show one or two things about modeling there, but for them basically the modeling classes end after term 3.

[KEdwards]

Thanks for the info Rens, much appreciated.

I had looked under faculty already but never would have guessed that those two were the VFX Mentors since their titles and track records seem mainly in other industries. (Alastair with Motion Capture and TJ seems to be primarlily a modeling/character background?)

I'm sure they are both valuable resources as mentors but I'm still hesitant about their over all VFX knowledge... It's is a big kettle of fish.

At least diginime would be in good hands with TJ's modeling history.

I'll have to watch and see how the grads turn out I suppose... How long have they been there?

Thanks again,

Kev

[diginime]

Short answer, no. There's an Advanced Maya class for VFX people, the teacher may show one or two things about modeling there, but for them basically the modeling classes end after term 3.
Ooo...icic.finally rens asnwer my question.btw,i heard that in VFX stream many things have to find out yourself.is it?

[Rens]

I'll have to watch and see how the grads turn out I suppose... How long have they been there?
They started about two months ago, Al a bit sooner, TJ a bit later. As I said before I can't speak of much personal experience when it comes to TJ, but Al's started teaching some workshops and the first two were about cameras, lenses and their conversions, MEL scripting and particles. He seems to be able to help everybody out when it comes to VFX problems, as far as I've seen.

Ooo...icic.finally rens asnwer my question.btw,i heard that in VFX stream many things have to find out yourself.is it?
Yep. It's a stream where you can basically go every way you want to, from particles to fluids to lighting. The stream being so broad results in less task-specific resources available. Also a lot of the programs you might need aren't taught in the first three months (Boujou, Realflow, whatever). Plus up until now the first three months are mainly taught in XSI, in the VFX stream you're more or less required to use Maya for most of the stuff. This is being changed as far as I know, with more classes being taught in Maya from the start.

Oh, just a suggestion, I don't know how well you can understand spoken English, but try to learn as much as you can if you're planning to come to VFS. There are a lot of classes and they're all taught in English and it helps a lot if you can understand most of it (I'm not being sarcastic).

[bleumoon]

Thanks a lot everyone for your replies. I'm currently looking at a couple places. I'm just glad it's not the Olympic year. I have no clue what people are going to do when everything is all booked up and over priced for the games :shrug:. Anyway, I'll keep you posted on what I find as it seems that housing is a common issue for incomming students. Overall I'm not too concerned, and I'll concider myself lucky if housing turns out to be my biggest problem while I'm at VFS, that is if it's even a problem at all.


Rens: You mentioned that the schedule after term 3 is set up as such that you can make it to classes outside your emphasis. Do a lot of people cross-pollinate like that, or is it more of a "you chose this stream you stick with it" thing?


diginime: It sounds like you're trying to decide if you should focus on either the modeling or VFX track. You're not at the school yet right? I feel that one must know how to walk before they can run.

First, I would relax. Now is not the time to worry about jobs and what not. Instead, you should focus you energy to where it's needed . . . on improving your skills. Otherwise you could end up wasting a lot of time and energy on things you can't control.

Second, after you've been at the school for 6 months you'll know both yourself and VFS a lot better than you do now. After you've gone through the classes you'll have a lot better understanding of what you'll want to do as a career. You'll know more about what to ask and who to ask, and you'll be in a much better position to make the decision about which track to take.

With that being said, the more information about the school the better. I'd be happy to listen to anyone who'd like to share their experiences with the program.

[diginime]

Oh, just a suggestion, I don't know how well you can understand spoken English, but try to learn as much as you can if you're planning to come to VFS. There are a lot of classes and they're all taught in English and it helps a lot if you can understand most of it (I'm not being sarcastic).
Ya...i can hear..but can't write well.

[cesarmontero]

PROTECTING MY DESKTOP/ PLANE TRIP BACK HOME?
Hi guys.
I just graduated from VFS.
I'm moving back to Mexico.
I'm trying to find the best way/place to pack my machine.
I had the idea of getting it to Fedex guys to pack it.

Is there a better option?
I need to transport it with me at the plane.
I can't send it via Fedex due to tax issues
(Mexican customs will charge me).

So yeah, I'm nervous about how to put it into a solid block that will be resistent enought.

HOUSING PLACE:

I'm about to go outside of my apartment this 31 of May.
I'm not sure if the manager allready located someone to rent the place.
I will ask if there are empty apartments here.

The place is located at Granville Street #1278
The building is built with solid bricks.
One problem I find of many Vancouver places, is that the walls are just too thin.
On winter then you don't need of so much of the heater in this place.
I find it a perfect place for people that try to avoid the use of heater, or don't like cold climates.

I'll try to get info for you guys
One bedroom apartment is 1050 canadian dollars.
There are bachellor under that, and I'm not sure of the price for the rest.
It depends also of the floor.
The best part of this place: The 7/11 is under the building!
DONT RENT IN THIS PLACE:

Don't rent an apartment at a building called The Oscar to a couple with the last name of "Gagnon".
I had A LOT of problems with them.
Seriously, I wouldn't wish the luck I had with them even to my worst enemy.
Imagine them shouting at me "why do you want your receipts of payment!!!".
I had to get a lawyer, who later told me their rent practices where ilegal!

[seba108]

Hmmm... maybe I'll just put a tent outside VFS... :rolleyes:...
Like I said before, if anyone here is looking for a roommate... your not alone...

[M.E.L.]

Hey Kev,

This is the other, only met him twice or so, but he's a nice guy and really knows his stuff:
http://www.vfs.com/faculty.php?id=7&staff_id=640


Tj is a great guy, I had him for an instructor at Centennial College and also worked with him at Topix in Toronto; very nice guy and extremely smart (go see him if you ever need rigging advice and tell him that I told you he'd help you heh).

[Arrghman]

Hi guys.
I just graduated from VFS.
I'm moving back to Mexico.
I'm trying to find the best way/place to pack my machine.
I had the idea of getting it to Fedex guys to pack it.

Is there a better option?
I need to transport it with me at the plane.
I can't send it via Fedex due to tax issues
(Mexican customs will charge me).

So yeah, I'm nervous about how to put it into a solid block that will be resistent enought.

I shipped mine from and to the US via UPS and I had them pack it for me both times (and I'm about to move up to Edmonton and I'm doing the same thing again). Not sure about taking it on the plane with you, but at the very least I know the UPS Stores will pack things for you though an actual UPS shipping office would not. I've never used Fedex but I image it would be the same. I was in the Fedex center on Burrard a few blocks away from VFS and they didn't seem setup to handle packing things so I'm not sure about that. I don't recall the location of the UPS Store I used though.

For customs, I was able to fill out a form saying that it was my own property shipping to myself for US customs and so I wasn't charged for it. That's the US though, I don't know if you can do something similar for Mexico.

Good luck!

[diginime]

the housing there got internet facilities ?Need to pay every month or already included in the monthly bill?

[seba108]

Diginime... If the place your staying in doesnt have internet connection you can use a wlan called FatPort (http://www.fatport.com/locations/index.php).

[diginime]

i saw on the fatspot website:
We only place one restriction: 0.5GB of downloads per month. That's it. Pretty simple.
Restriction?That's mean the maximum we can download in a month is only 500mb ?

[seba108]

Hmmm... For a moment ago there was also a 1 year option... and it did not have any download limit... maybe I remember wrong.

[borreguito]

Hello everybody, I´ll start in 26th june at vfs 3d and visual effects. and i look for housing close the school. I don´t find anything there.

but the accommodation service offering me a room in a student house in east mount pleasant fraser 12th ave.

I know that it is far away from 1380 burrard, but i only need if this place have good comunications by bus, and if this house is in a good area.

greeting boys.....

[KOKE]

Hello everybody, I´ll start in 26th june at vfs 3d and visual effects. and i look for housing close the school. I don´t find anything there.

but the accommodation service offering me a room in a student house in east mount pleasant fraser 12th ave.

I know that it is far away from 1380 burrard, but i only need if this place have good comunications by bus, and if this house is in a good area.

greeting boys.....

There are tons of houses near the school for rent.

The best thing you could do is come to the city and stay in a hotel or student residence for a couple of days while you look on site for a house.

Nearly everyone that doesnt live next to the school, ends up moving closer after a couple of months.

I live 10 minutes walking distance from the campus, and so does more than half my class.

As I said, there are tons of places, althoug its true that depending on the month there are more or less of them avaliable.

Dont worry

JK.

:D

[KOKE]

Oh I forgot, U said u start june 26th??

Then u will be class 3D63 if im not mistaken.

Search for me in the "antfarm", im class 3D59.

< opens Spanish mode >

Un saludo, amigo.

Esto te va a gustar, pero prepárate a trabajar como un condenado.

< close Spanish mode >

JK.

:D

[rajbir]

hello friends
i am rajbir from india ,
i want to pursue my career in visual effects and make effects like f 4, hulk and stunning up coming movies ,
but i ma not sure where to join in i recently applied for the course of BA(hons) ipost production and visual effects in the university of TEESSIDE (www.tees.ac.uk (http://www.tees.ac.uk)) (http://www-scm.tees.ac.uk/html/ba_hons_post_production_and_visual_effects.html), Middlesbrough, UK
but i am really not satisfied with the institution i dont feel like going there, i applied there and even got seat, but other option that i had and where i really wanted to go was VFS , but the fees is too much (****ing expensive) But i can surly join VFS if they offer me to pay my fees in installnments . is that possible..?
i struggles a lot but i am still not able to find out a good school for my self , i heard about the LOST BOYS LEARNING (http://www.lostboys-learning.com/) but i have no idea its like you pay huge amount and experiment on different universities...
PLEASE HELP ME .....!

rajbir

[KEdwards]

Hey Rajbir, I've been watching Lost Boys as well. I've been torn between them and VFS. From what I hear they have a very good reputation for their VFX and the current students (TERM1) already have some decent work on their portfolios... Did you see this thread? http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?t=303426 (http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?t=303426)
Either way, good luck, I hear your pain.
Kev

[diginime]

hey guys, i just want to ask that what version of XSI and Maya are they using at VFS ?By the way, they teach which program more ?

[Deranged_Seagull]

Ok guys silly question ... the Animation course says one year. That's academic right? The actual duration ought be a year and half or sth?

[diginime]

Ok guys silly question ... the Animation course says one year. That's academic right? The actual duration ought be a year and half or sth?
It's just a year dude...where did you heard that is a year and half ?

[Deranged_Seagull]

Oh that's how the count semesters in Greek UNI's!!

[KOKE]

About program versions:

XSI 5.1

Maya 7

Its a mainly XSI program, but they are changing to a mainly Maya program now.

For modelers they will probably keep them with XSI, because its much easier and fast in that area than Maya.

Animation and VFX will probably be switched to full Maya.

That change to Maya is for the new classes, so mine (started october 2005) is full XSI (and as a modeler I love that program :thumbsup: ).

But the program to use is entirely up to you, so if you are proficient with Maya u can do all Maya and the same with XSI.
Even some people are granted 3DMax licences.

Then there are lots of stream specific programs in the computers like: Motion Builder, Z brush, Real Flow, Boujou etc..

The machines are very powerful (all dual Xeon, 2 gig of ram, quadro etc..) so no problem with the technical part.


JK

:D

[Arrghman]

Do they actually have more then 10 ZBrush licenses now? ;)

[KOKE]

Do they actually have more then 10 ZBrush licenses now? ;)

Lol yeah there are not enough for all :cry:.

I dont know how many they have in total, they keep saying they will get more but we are already past mid term 4 and of the 7 licences they said we would have, we only got 2.

Apparently they dont want people to model only zbrush sculptures, they want to force modelers to learn topology (makes sense) but i could really use one of those now :p .

:banghead:

JK

:D

[diginime]

1 problem here...i'm going VFS this October, in my comp i don't have the Zbrush software and some other software. Then how can i get the software at there? Is there any shop or anything else ? By the way, thx koke for answering my question, i'm now learning XSI and kinda hard man...cause changing from Maya to this.Does the lecturer teach all the tool to use in modeling ?Coz i'm going to take modeling stream after the half year. Anyway, thx.

[anibal187]

1 problem here...i'm going VFS this October, in my comp i don't have the Zbrush software and some other software...
You have enough lab time at school. Few people work at home, and if they do it is because they like it more, not because there is not space at school.

Edit:
Lol yeah there are not enough for all
Ups, I did not read this. Only 10 licenses? That sucks.

[diginime]

You have enough lab time at school. Few people work at home, and if they do it is because they like it more, not because there is not space at school.

Ooo..Thx dude !!

[diginime]

Hi guys, i'm going to study at VFS this October 23 for 3D animation and Visual Effects. I'm now looking a place to share. Does anyone had a place to share? I don't smoke, no pets, and an easy going guy. I'm looking forward to a place near to Burrard St.Has Internet facility as well.

[rajbir]

Hi guys, i'm going to study at VFS this October 23 for 3D animation and Visual Effects. I'm now looking a place to share. Does anyone had a place to share? I don't smoke, no pets, and an easy going guy. I'm looking forward to a place near to Burrard St.Has Internet facility as well.

Hi i am going in october too (possibly depends on visa) , no smoking, no pets, vegetarian, non drinker,
will like to share

[diginime]

Hi i am going in october too (possibly depends on visa) , no smoking, no pets, vegetarian, non drinker,
will like to share
Nice to meet you here!! I'm not a drinker too.

By the way, does VFS teach human anatomy?

[rajbir]

Nice to meet you here!! I'm not a drinker too.

By the way, does VFS teach human anatomy?

Hi , i am not sure about the anatomy but they should if they are offering 3d animation and one of my friend's brother has passed out from VFS and he told me thats they teach in detail.

have your visa been accepted...?
rajbir

[rajbir]

What softwares are taught in 3d animation and visual effects in VFS , i know it does'nt depend on the software but just wanted to know for visual effects (softwares)

[diginime]

What softwares are taught in 3d animation and visual effects in VFS , i know it does'nt depend on the software but just wanted to know for visual effects (softwares)
For VFX they'll teach Maya more than XSI.

[cesarmontero]

I shipped mine from and to the US via UPS and I had them pack it for me both times (and I'm about to move up to Edmonton and I'm doing the same thing again). Not sure about taking it on the plane with you, but at the very least I know the UPS Stores will pack things for you though an actual UPS shipping office would not. I've never used Fedex but I image it would be the same. I was in the Fedex center on Burrard a few blocks away from VFS and they didn't seem setup to handle packing things so I'm not sure about that. I don't recall the location of the UPS Store I used though.

For customs, I was able to fill out a form saying that it was my own property shipping to myself for US customs and so I wasn't charged for it. That's the US though, I don't know if you can do something similar for Mexico.

Good luck!

Hey guys, I made it back to Mexico from Vancouver with my computer.
I will give the following suggestions to someone that would like to do the same:

If you are going to buy a computer at Vancouver, first investigate with customs at your home country if you can take it back. In the case of Mexicans, we need to buy it 7 months before we return, so it will be considered as a used piece. You cannot send the computer via Fedex or UPS to Mexico, since Mexican customs accepts personal computers only if they are sent to be fixed...or of course, if you want to pay 15%-35% of taxes :P

So the solution was to make a tramit to bring back at the my belongins as "menaje de casa". It is a constitutional right that states that if you where out for a year studing, you can bring back your belongins without customs asking for taxes. However, watch out! VFS program is slightly less than a year. What saved me was to have a letter telling that I was a class representative "for the last 12 months". IF it was not for that, the tramit would have not been possible.

In any case, this tramit has to be done at Mexico, and it is a bit complex. So if there is a mexican out there that will one day need a hand in this, just let me know.

Packing the CPU:
Oh, and for packaging, save the original box of your computer. Then, when you return, pack it up, but take it packed to UPS. They will put protection plus a second protective box. UPS is definetly the best for packing!

[Garrimation]

Hi Guys,

I have been reading alot of the posts on this thread. I have been able to learn from my own perspective as well as going to the school it self to check it out that it is definatly a good choice for education. I have already gone to a few schools and have gotten degree's but because of constant changes in the industry, I have still not broken into the industry. I myself am now shooting to go to the school by next years begining, but i have some real questions to everyone, including the ones that are working now. THe schools has always been a softimage based school but after reading some lines, i am hearing that maya is popping up more in the classes now.
Do you think this is because most of the industry is maya dominant and that xsi is still not breaking ground, or is it the opposite.
I live in washington state usa and have tried with talant agencies as well as on my own to get work and they have told me directly that if i didnt know maya or max that they could not get work for me, some dont even know what xsi is, so are the people getting jobs out of school, getting them outside the usa more or does anyone know of people that are getting jobs here.
In washington, its so software driven here that the game companies, even microsoft wont look at you unless you say max or maya first
I bring these questions up because I personally love XSI and think that it is over all the best package out there to date with its continuous advancements for the industry. I am not an expert in it, but i know somethings, but do any of you think as well that if you dont know maya, regardless of your talent, you may not get a job, or do you trully think that VFS prepares you enough through your education there, to not have to worry about it as well as your demo speaking for itself. Just for the record, i was just in an interview for a storyboard artist postion at bungie for 2D animation and storyboard animatics and such, I lost out on the job the minute the recruiter heard i didnt know maya. It was a 2D/storyboard artist position......I enjoy games but what i want is to do the cinematics of them, not so much design them, as well as the feature film industry I really enjoy the story end so that would be my target area, again though even in the feature film industry, is xsi making an improvment enough to rely on that alone.
Sorry for the long babble...... just want to hear some real oppinions as answers before i jump in as start learning again

[cesarmontero]

Hi Guys,

I have been reading alot of the posts on this thread. I have been able to learn from my own perspective as well as going to the school it self to check it out that it is definatly a good choice for education. I have already gone to a few schools and have gotten degree's but because of constant changes in the industry, I have still not broken into the industry. I myself am now shooting to go to the school by next years begining, but i have some real questions to everyone, including the ones that are working now. THe schools has always been a softimage based school but after reading some lines, i am hearing that maya is popping up more in the classes now.
Do you think this is because most of the industry is maya dominant and that xsi is still not breaking ground, or is it the opposite.
I live in washington state usa and have tried with talant agencies as well as on my own to get work and they have told me directly that if i didnt know maya or max that they could not get work for me, some dont even know what xsi is, so are the people getting jobs out of school, getting them outside the usa more or does anyone know of people that are getting jobs here.
In washington, its so software driven here that the game companies, even microsoft wont look at you unless you say max or maya first
I bring these questions up because I personally love XSI and think that it is over all the best package out there to date with its continuous advancements for the industry. I am not an expert in it, but i know somethings, but do any of you think as well that if you dont know maya, regardless of your talent, you may not get a job, or do you trully think that VFS prepares you enough through your education there, to not have to worry about it as well as your demo speaking for itself. Just for the record, i was just in an interview for a storyboard artist postion at bungie for 2D animation and storyboard animatics and such, I lost out on the job the minute the recruiter heard i didnt know maya. It was a 2D/storyboard artist position......I enjoy games but what i want is to do the cinematics of them, not so much design them, as well as the feature film industry I really enjoy the story end so that would be my target area, again though even in the feature film industry, is xsi making an improvment enough to rely on that alone.
Sorry for the long babble...... just want to hear some real oppinions as answers before i jump in as start learning again

The tool does not makes the artist.
Of course, there are many tools, and many crafts, and many audiences in 3D.
So, first of all, define in what you want to work.

You can get a job even if you work on Wings3D.
I tell you this because I know recruiting guys for feature film that have done it.
You just need to be exceptional of course....the best.
It is easier to make it in knowing software's as Maya feature film, and max for games.

Maya is not all in the feature film bussiness.
The marketing strategy of the company is very strong nowadays.
However, companies know that software's change in time.
They know you will need to learn more packages.
That is why, talent is more valuable.

Being said this, if a company does not vales talent over skills...
It is more probable that they do not see a future with you in the company.
Why hire a guy for talent (and not so much for skills) if you are just going to use him for monkey work for some time?
So yes, try to get into a company where talent is more valued than skills.

Now, you may wonder....where?!
Once you got what you want to do, get relationships
Try to know at least 2 or 3 people that work where you want to work.
Then, work very hard, and show your work to them.
They will tell you what to do next, and when you are ready, they will tell you:
"that is very nice man, you should considering sending your reel over here...let me know when you do and I'll tell the recruiting guys to put an aye when your name pops up".

I don't use Maya, neither XSI, or zbrush, or have work experience.
I never went to artschool, or VFS 3D program, or gone to conferences a lot, etc
And yet, I have job offers to chose from at Canada.
It is all about who you know and what you show to them.
However, I'm looking for a job at California because of the climate.
I just realized I don't like Canada weather.

You can do it!!
Feel free to contact me if you feel I can give you a hand in something.

[fabionguzman]

seem like VFS is a hot topic these days. I plan on attending as well, just waiting to see if my loan is approved. I have a 6 month yr old and I don't want to leave him and his mom in L.A until I finish, but I know it's tough to take a family with you to another city.

I know how to stay focus so that won't be a problem. Well look foward to seeing a few of you guys in Oct.

[Helgi]

Yeah, it seems that VFS is a hot topic these days... and also it seems that plenty of guys here on CgTalk are going to VFS this october, along with me :)

But one thing that bothers me a little and that is the accomodations. Is Bell Accomodations the best way to go or is there any other rental service that are just as good? Also I was wondering if the appartments which the current students, who finish in october, are in now would be available at the time of their graduation? :)

[Igo]

Seriously, you guys need to go skim the thread a bit more because practically everything that's been asked has been answered at least a billion and a half times before. I just talked about Bell 2 or 3 pages back, take 2 minutes and just check.

Ive never heard of anyone coming out of VFS (that I know) or anywhere else for that matter, who has gotten rejected for not knowing another software package, Max, Maya, etc. They always hire them on just beacuse they are talented 3D artists... although I could see you not being hired as a Houdini operator if you dont know how to use Houdini.

[huskmurfy]

hi all,

well if we r talking so much abt the schools here what if i ask u all for a suggestion.
can u help me search out a good an affordable school where i can specialize in lightning or any school/institute with profeciancy in vfx.It's imp. for u to know that i am from india.

well Has any one of u heard abt wanganui school of design new zealand.

how far is animation popular in new zealand.

fare u well...
...........................

[ATARAXIAN]

Hi everyone,

This is Ari from Bangalore, India. I will be attending the 3D Animation/Vis Effects course this October. Great to see so many people who plan to do the same on this thread. Must also say that this thread has been very informative with varied perspectives and really does help someone who requires all the information they can gather prior to attending the course.
I am on the lookout for housing as well, so anyone interested do let me know. Looking forward to meeting you guys,

CHEERS

[Rwolf]

Yeah, it seems that VFS is a hot topic these days... and also it seems that plenty of guys here on CgTalk are going to VFS this october, along with me :)

But one thing that bothers me a little and that is the accomodations. Is Bell Accomodations the best way to go or is there any other rental service that are just as good? Also I was wondering if the appartments which the current students, who finish in october, are in now would be available at the time of their graduation? :)

Bell Acc is Ok, but not great.

I'd Suggest these places to find a place to live in Vancouver
http://vancouver.craigslist.org/
http://www.canada.com/renting/index_map.html
http://www.vfs.com/lifeatvfs.php?section=find_a_roommate

[BLX]

This is a great thread for people considering the school. I read heck load of the posts and it was really helpful to know. I haven't seen any post regarding the recommandation letters with the requirement. Is it just there so that VFS will look "elite" or for real. Seeing people pointing out that some of the students in their class weren't even serious in the program or their drawings really sucked..etc, I assume this is the same deal? It would be good to know before I decide to go to VFS or not.

[Arrghman]

Seeing people pointing out that some of the students in their class weren't even serious in the program or their drawings really sucked..etc, I assume this is the same deal? It would be good to know before I decide to go to VFS or not.

Well at any school you're going to find students who aren't really serious about what they're doing. I'd say there were certanly enough at VFS who were putting the effort in to outnumber the people who didn't. And personally, I'm glad that no one at VFS wanted to see any drawings from me before I went there, otherwise I probably wouldn't have gotten in ;)

IMO the other students was probably one of the better things about VFS. Even if I was the shy one ;) There will certanly be some people you'll meet, if you go, who aren't really serious about putting effort into their work or who aren't interested in building their skills in a meaningful manner... but I think that they're the minority IMO.

[BLX]

Agrees completely with you Arrghman. It just happens all the time but those who really works for it, gets it. Seriously they must be rich kids who got nothing to do or their wealthy parents force them to do, but whatever, it's their money and their choice. I am really thinking in attending VFS now. With that, can anyone say for sure if I really need some recommandation letters? Well, maybe I should just call them lol but you know, I want some "real" info from the people who really knows about the school, who graduated and know the truth about it instead of their agents trying to do all they can to get your money.

[ATARAXIAN]

Hey BLX,

For my recommendation, I was asked for letters from either educational instructors or referers from work experience. They got in touch with the references and had sent them online forms that they needed to fill out. It was basically grading for different traits which include creativity, reliabilty etc. They also had a telephonic conversation with one of my references. All in all basic stuff, and I assume that it was a formality that was required to be done.
I am getting my finances organised and look forward to obtaining my VISA. Looking forward to attending school.

RWolf, thanks for the housing links:)

CHEERS

_____________________________

The distance between insanity and genius is measured only by success.......

[BLX]

Ah, thanks for the reply. Now I know for sure but then I need to find a referer. Anyway thanks again and good luck to you ATARAXIAN.

[seba108]

People of 3D-animation and VFS, Classical animation, etc.... (August -06)...
Would someone be interested in sharing this place (http://www.vfs.com/lifeatvfs.php?section=find_a_roommate&category=HPR&form=view&post_id=1585). It would be great if I could find two roommates, because the appartment is quite big and expensive.

[huskmurfy]

hi there,
can somebody tell me more about this cdis u all have talked abt altot in this forum.
i have searched a lot on google abt this but every time its a different thing some link it to the
art institute of vancover and the other moment i find another indipendent site of cdis.

[huskmurfy]

i am actually looking for an affordable institute for vfx and lightning studies which i am most interested in. can anybody help me find one good college/school/institute which provides a post graduate degree/diploma for any of these.

[ZombieSpiderman]

Hey folks. I'm an experienced freelance illustrator who's considering VFS as a career move. Lately the freelance business has begun to wear on me, mainly due to the fact that there's really nowhere to go; My best case scenario is just that I continue on as I have (hand-to-mouth, no health insurance, no retirement plan) indefinitely. However, I know in my heart that despite the fact that I'm smart, there's nothing outside of the creative industry that will hold my attention long enough for me to have a successful career. Unfortunately, thanks to all the useless diploma mills in the US ("Designing games is FUN!") there are hundreds of people clamoring for every available 3D job. I know the 2D programs inside and out and I've taught myself a significant amount of 3DS Max, but it's not enough. I need to fill the gaps in my knowledge and get the kind of industry awareness and contacts that a real school can bring.

VFS was recommended to me by someone in the industry who described it as "the best, hands down" but the main appeal is how fast it is. I'm actually a pretty old guy, relatively speaking, so I don't want to expend any more time then I have to getting to where I need to be. I know I have the ability to learn, I have real-world experience as a professional artist and I was in the USAF for ten years, where 70 hour work weeks were the norm. I say these things not to brag but to indicate that I think I have what it takes to make it work.

Ultimately, it's the money that worries me, but not just for the expense, more for the return on investment. Department of Labor stats indicate that an entry level 3D person makes 25-35K a year, which makes going $40K into debt seem a little ridiculous. I mean, I pretty much make that NOW (although without benefits). So my question is that: Is it worth it? Do you get into a situtation, after paying your dues for a year or two, where you can make actual grown-up money, or do you just have to satisfy yourself with doing something interesting and fulfilling? Forgive me for being crass, but it seems that cash rules everything around me, yo.

[MikeRhone]

ZombieSpiderman:

Career advice specifically... If you need stability then I cannot reccomend the CG industry. The salaries can be decent, but arent 'stable'. If you can handle working for 8-16 months then a few months without anything then you should be ok. Entry level salaries are really hard to comment on. I would say it wouldn't take to long to hit the $40K a year mark in the biz, but if you limit yourself to a base level animator and don't advance yourself you may find that is your ceiling. I find the wages in the industry are starting to really spread out depending on what you do. Animators that can rig characters and modellers that can light/render tend to do quite well. There are more jobs out there for the more techie positions like FX, riggers, compositors... Consider this a not-so subtle hint ;)

We have at least 5 major cg schools pumping out students every couple of months. The overwhelming majority of those are animators and modellers. Vancouver is hot for work right now, IF you have a bit of studio experience. Breaking in as a modeller or an animator is getting difficult if you consider how many other entry level people are trying for the same jobs.

Now on the other side of the coin, studios out here are dying for people that can handle themselves in the more technical spots. If you were a skilled rigger or had particle experience, I could point you at a half dozen studios that are interested right this second. (I have a thread going in the members section with 'inside info' on some Vancouver hiring going on at the moment here. (http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?t=375765) )

Best of luck...!

[Bartek|3D]

Hey folks. I'm an experienced freelance illustrator who's considering VFS as a career move. Lately the freelance business has begun to wear on me, mainly due to the fact that there's really nowhere to go; My best case scenario is just that I continue on as I have (hand-to-mouth, no health insurance, no retirement plan) indefinitely. However, I know in my heart that despite the fact that I'm smart, there's nothing outside of the creative industry that will hold my attention long enough for me to have a successful career. Unfortunately, thanks to all the useless diploma mills in the US ("Designing games is FUN!") there are hundreds of people clamoring for every available 3D job. I know the 2D programs inside and out and I've taught myself a significant amount of 3DS Max, but it's not enough. I need to fill the gaps in my knowledge and get the kind of industry awareness and contacts that a real school can bring.

VFS was recommended to me by someone in the industry who described it as "the best, hands down" but the main appeal is how fast it is. I'm actually a pretty old guy, relatively speaking, so I don't want to expend any more time then I have to getting to where I need to be. I know I have the ability to learn, I have real-world experience as a professional artist and I was in the USAF for ten years, where 70 hour work weeks were the norm. I say these things not to brag but to indicate that I think I have what it takes to make it work.

Ultimately, it's the money that worries me, but not just for the expense, more for the return on investment. Department of Labor stats indicate that an entry level 3D person makes 25-35K a year, which makes going $40K into debt seem a little ridiculous. I mean, I pretty much make that NOW (although without benefits). So my question is that: Is it worth it? Do you get into a situtation, after paying your dues for a year or two, where you can make actual grown-up money, or do you just have to satisfy yourself with doing something interesting and fulfilling? Forgive me for being crass, but it seems that cash rules everything around me, yo.

Hey there ZombieSpiderman!

Wow, pretty gutsy move you're about to make, so all the power to ya! ;)
My first question would be, what area of 3D would you like to work in? Would you like to be a modeler? Visual Effects artist (scripting, particles, compositing etc..)? Or maybe an animator?

VFS is very fast, its a crazy machine that churns out hundreds of students each year...but only a handful put an effort into schooling and get jobs. So, if you're planning on going to VFS, it has it's flaws, but it'll definitely introduce you to the world of 3D (it did for me!). But you really have to devote the year to school. Some people go 24/7, but I didn't do that, yet I managed to do fairly well so it can be done.

Anyways, if you're thinking about animation stricktly, then I would *highly* suggest the Animation Mentor online school. If I had a choice then I would do that for sure.

Good luck,

[Bartek|3D]

ZombieSpiderman:

Career advice specifically... If you need stability then I cannot reccomend the CG industry. The salaries can be decent, but arent 'stable'. If you can handle working for 8-16 months then a few months without anything then you should be ok. Entry level salaries are really hard to comment on. I would say it wouldn't take to long to hit the $40K a year mark in the biz, but if you limit yourself to a base level animator and don't advance yourself you may find that is your ceiling. I find the wages in the industry are starting to really spread out depending on what you do. Animators that can rig characters and modellers that can light/render tend to do quite well. There are more jobs out there for the more techie positions like FX, riggers, compositors... Consider this a not-so subtle hint ;)

We have at least 5 major cg schools pumping out students every couple of months. The overwhelming majority of those are animators and modellers. Vancouver is hot for work right now, IF you have a bit of studio experience. Breaking in as a modeller or an animator is getting difficult if you consider how many other entry level people are trying for the same jobs.

Now on the other side of the coin, studios out here are dying for people that can handle themselves in the more technical spots. If you were a skilled rigger or had particle experience, I could point you at a half dozen studios that are interested right this second. (I have a thread going in the members section with 'inside info' on some Vancouver hiring going on at the moment here. (http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?t=375765) )

Best of luck...!

Hey Mike!

I agree with you there. Lots of people don't have that stability in this industry, so if you want a staff position with a benefits package you gotta stand out for sure. I also noticed that animators/modelers that can do other things can go pretty far. But, if you can be a kickass modeler or animator thats fast, very skilled and just plain awesome...you'll definitely be in demand wherever you are. I have a bunch of very skilled friends here who excel at modeling and they've got solid jobs with offers coming out of every studio.

B

[ZombieSpiderman]

I should probably mention that the word "stability" is pretty relative. I'm not looking for employment for life or untold riches. There basically are NO staff illustration positions anymore, just freelancers, and as a freelancer, I'm used to going weeks in between jobs and waiting months to get paid for completed projects. Additionally, I have NO support structure except for what I make myself. Nonetheless, I've supported myself and kept the rent paid since '99 doing this. Still, it's hard and only getting harder. As such, the idea of eight solid months of work with health benefits, FICA and unemployment insurance sounds like heaven, even if it means four months of beating the pavement when I get laid off at the end of a project.

I've done talks to art students in my capacity as a freelancer and the first thing I tell them is that if they're going into this because they thing it sounds like a good gig, they're in for a hell of a shock. It's not a good gig, it's a TERRRIBLE gig. Even if you're successful, studies have shown that creative professionals are far more stressed and unhappy than non-creatives, probably because we're just so much more invested in our jobs. I always say, if you can possibly see yourself doing anything else, then do that and be happy. I, however, can't see just being another corporate wage slave! I've tried it and it's too much like the AF for me. :scream:

[hightillidie]

I should probably mention that the word "stability" is pretty relative. I'm not looking for employment for life or untold riches. There basically are NO staff illustration positions anymore, just freelancers, and as a freelancer, I'm used to going weeks in between jobs and waiting months to get paid for completed projects. Additionally, I have NO support structure except for what I make myself. Nonetheless, I've supported myself and kept the rent paid since '99 doing this. Still, it's hard and only getting harder. As such, the idea of eight solid months of work with health benefits, FICA and unemployment insurance sounds like heaven, even if it means four months of beating the pavement when I get laid off at the end of a project.

I've done talks to art students in my capacity as a freelancer and the first thing I tell them is that if they're going into this because they thing it sounds like a good gig, they're in for a hell of a shock. It's not a good gig, it's a TERRRIBLE gig. Even if you're successful, studies have shown that creative professionals are far more stressed and unhappy than non-creatives, probably because we're just so much more invested in our jobs. I always say, if you can possibly see yourself doing anything else, then do that and be happy. I, however, can't see just being another corporate wage slave! I've tried it and it's too much like the AF for me. :scream:

Thanks for the insight of that matter. I was thinking of going into freelancing. Im only 16 now so its better than working at a crappy macdonalds.


I was really interested in joining VFS too but sadly I dont have that kind of money. Should I just homeschool myself for now and save up money till Im actually ready to go to a school like that. Im just wondering, do I even need experience to get in( from the first pages it seems the answer is no but has that changed since 2003?).
I think I am at a crossing point of my life. ITs either I get serious with my art or go into corporate america.

[Bartek|3D]

I know a few people who never had any experience and homeschooled themselves, and managed to get into the industry. But...most of them had connections and their skills are really good! And you don't always get to start off at the position you want, sometimes it's as a PA, sometimes it's as a render wrangler, but you get your foot in the door and then show off what you're made of.

Thanks for the insight of that matter. I was thinking of going into freelancing. Im only 16 now so its better than working at a crappy macdonalds.


I was really interested in joining VFS too but sadly I dont have that kind of money. Should I just homeschool myself for now and save up money till Im actually ready to go to a school like that. Im just wondering, do I even need experience to get in( from the first pages it seems the answer is no but has that changed since 2003?).
I think I am at a crossing point of my life. ITs either I get serious with my art or go into corporate america.

[ZombieSpiderman]

The biggest problem with being self-taught, in my experience, is that there are typically significant gaps in your technical knowledge. Having to ask "What does that mean?" to an art director (or worse, a client) can really make you look stupid. While no school will fill ALL those gaps, I would expect it sounds better to say "They never really emphasized that at (Insert school name here), so can you please clarify what that means?" As far as most non-pros are concerned, that's all an education is anyway: A stamp of approval from a formal body saying you know what you're talking about! It's all a big communal hallucination when you come right down to it.

[Bartek|3D]

Amen!
The connections, terminology and other usefull stuff you learn in a good school is gold.

The biggest problem with being self-taught, in my experience, is that there are typically significant gaps in your technical knowledge. Having to ask "What does that mean?" to an art director (or worse, a client) can really make you look stupid. While no school will fill ALL those gaps, I would expect it sounds better to say "They never really emphasized that at (Insert school name here), so can you please clarify what that means?" As far as most non-pros are concerned, that's all an education is anyway: A stamp of approval from a formal body saying you know what you're talking about! It's all a big communal hallucination when you come right down to it.

[maunilpatel]

I am really confused here, I can't choose between these two option
If I want to do 3D animation and Visual effects
should I go to vfs (1 year program)
or
Should I go to Van Arts and finish it in 1 and half year

Because from the opinions of other people, both school looks good. But which one has advantage over other one?

Any help will be appericiated.. Thanks!!

[flametio]

i'm going to vfs, too

what i'm wondering is just how many of grads got job and how long time did they take to get a real job and how much salary do they have per month !

that is the first head thing we need to face when we are ready to start our social life.

[Bartek|3D]

maunilpatel: I've heard good things about VanArts too, so it's your choice! I have a couple really good animator friends from there and even some alumni are "famous" animators at Pixar for years.

flametio: from my experience, only a handful of students from each class get a job right after school. Something like 3-5 students out of a class of 26. The others can take months or even years to get anything. It all depends how much skill you have and how much time you put in (and timing in the industry). You work your ass off, you get a job most of the time, you slack off, you're screwed.

[ShadowM8]

I love VFS but I also think some valid points need to be addressed:

I would really give it some serious thought before going to VFS. Right now the price is getting the point of unreasonable. One biggest downside of VFS is that you don't get a degree, and like it or not is comes into play once you are looking around for a job and negotiating your compensation.
For a lot of people going into VFS without a huge baggage of talent behind them they simply don't get enough foundation knowledge to build on in the packed year you get. Therefore you end up using your reel time as still part of your learning and come out with inadequate portfolio.
There is also no opportunities for coop or internships and once you graduate you are really left on your own to search for a job.

Right now just in Greater Vancouver area you get at least 4 choices of art schools, all of which are quite reasonable. ThinkTank for example is the new comer, it's more than half the price of VFS and is looking like a promising program.

Lost Boys education is another choice, which is quite different from conventional schools but offers a really hands on experience if you ever want to go into vfx.

Now all this said VFS is still a great school with good instructors. It all comes down to how much funds you have, how much time you have for school and what you want to get out of your schooling.

[flametio]

the most funny thing is vfs dont have max course(??!) in 3d class? a lot of company required 3ds max or treat it as a asset, but vfs dont have it....


if it really like what Bartek|3D said, it will be too sad to know....

[diginime]

ZombieSpiderman:

Career advice specifically... If you need stability then I cannot reccomend the CG industry. The salaries can be decent, but arent 'stable'. If you can handle working for 8-16 months then a few months without anything then you should be ok. Entry level salaries are really hard to comment on. I would say it wouldn't take to long to hit the $40K a year mark in the biz, but if you limit yourself to a base level animator and don't advance yourself you may find that is your ceiling. I find the wages in the industry are starting to really spread out depending on what you do. Animators that can rig characters and modellers that can light/render tend to do quite well. There are more jobs out there for the more techie positions like FX, riggers, compositors... Consider this a not-so subtle hint ;)

We have at least 5 major cg schools pumping out students every couple of months. The overwhelming majority of those are animators and modellers. Vancouver is hot for work right now, IF you have a bit of studio experience. Breaking in as a modeller or an animator is getting difficult if you consider how many other entry level people are trying for the same jobs.

Now on the other side of the coin, studios out here are dying for people that can handle themselves in the more technical spots. If you were a skilled rigger or had particle experience, I could point you at a half dozen studios that are interested right this second. (I have a thread going in the members section with 'inside info' on some Vancouver hiring going on at the moment here. (http://forums.cgsociety.org/showthread.php?t=375765) )

Best of luck...!
Hi, nice to meet you here. So that's mean modeler and animator are many nowadays?

[Arrghman]

Something like 3-5 students out of a class of 26. The others can take months or even years to get anything. It all depends how much skill you have and how much time you put in (and timing in the industry). You work your ass off, you get a job most of the time, you slack off, you're screwed.

It's worth pointing out, I think, that just because it might take up to a few months to get a job isn't necessarily a bad reflection on a person's skills. Sometimes it takes a while just because that's how life goes... if you're appling for jobs without any sort of contact at a company, sometimes you just have to get lucky so that your reel gets seen by the right people or that the companies who you're applying to actually have openings in whatever area you're applying for. Sometimes that's just how job hunting goes!

That said, it's still all about the work you do!

[maunilpatel]

I love VFS but I also think some valid points need to be addressed:

I would really give it some serious thought before going to VFS. Right now the price is getting the point of unreasonable. One biggest downside of VFS is that you don't get a degree, and like it or not is comes into play once you are looking around for a job and negotiating your compensation.
For a lot of people going into VFS without a huge baggage of talent behind them they simply don't get enough foundation knowledge to build on in the packed year you get. Therefore you end up using your reel time as still part of your learning and come out with inadequate portfolio.
There is also no opportunities for coop or internships and once you graduate you are really left on your own to search for a job.

Right now just in Greater Vancouver area you get at least 4 choices of art schools, all of which are quite reasonable. ThinkTank for example is the new comer, it's more than half the price of VFS and is looking like a promising program.

Lost Boys education is another choice, which is quite different from conventional schools but offers a really hands on experience if you ever want to go into vfx.

Now all this said VFS is still a great school with good instructors. It all comes down to how much funds you have, how much time you have for school and what you want to get out of your schooling.

can u give your opinion on van arts please?

[ShadowM8]

Unfortunately I do not have much experience with VanArts.

[newcenturydsn]

Nice ID Yo, ZombieSpiderman rules!

To answer your questions, 1)The Vancouver Film School is Probably the best hands down school for a solid career in animation
and yeah for most positions you're walking into 30-40,000 a year maybe even as low as 20,000
...but...BUT!! Depending on your willingness to learn and apply yourself. if you want it that bad, forget 70 hour weeks try like 90-110 hour weeks. As a full time student, (now things might have changed) but you have access 24/7...yeah!...like 15-18 hours a day, but like i said that all depends on how much you want to apply yourself.
Demo reels that have come out of the BC schools are pretty standard, but if your willing to go that extra mile, your demo could rock everybody elses and get you that 'adult pay' you're looking for.
I know guys that have walked into 60,000 a year to start TAKE HOME!!
In one instance, this was a long time ago bt one kid was a week out of school and because he applied himself, he was done his demo two weeks ahead of everybody else, and a company in Hawaii I believe called him up a week after school was done, told him a plane ticket was waiting at the airport, he was to bring his bare essentials, and get there like the next day, the company would take care of getting the rest of his belongings to his place. O hthere was a place to live for him already arranged, and he would start his wage at $70,000 a year, AMERICAN!, needless to say he was on the plane the next day.
You make the call dude, I'd say it's worth it.

Now, I did not attend the film school, but I was close, I decided to go in a different direction. I now run my own Custom Painting/ Airbrushing company. I still like to watch whats going on in the indusrty because it's awesome. And I do still keep in touch with a couple of those guys that i mentionr=ed in my little story.

Good luck dude!
Check the signature, its the only way to go!

[Intervain]

It's worth pointing out, I think, that just because it might take up to a few months to get a job isn't necessarily a bad reflection on a person's skills.

I have to agree with Lee there! It's not only the matter of someone seeing your reel or not but quite often all sorts of beaurocratic or HR hurdles... many companies won't even talk to people who need visas for instance, or will eventually decide that they'd rather hire someone who doesn't despite the probable difference in skill level - it's just how life goes but it does make a person loose time... I've come across numerous cases like that...
There are also companies who honestly don't respect people's time - I won't name names here but I've seen some talking to people and leading them on for 2-3 months just to tell them in the end 'thanks, but no thanks'
To sum up - several months is something you need to be prepared for and it definitely doesn't reflect poorly on the candidate's skills or determination to work

[flametio]

70000/ year.. that 's too odd... barely happen just like folktale..

[Intervain]

70000/ year.. that 's too odd... barely happen just like folktale..

was just thinking the same thing actually.... LOL

[diginime]

Hey there ZombieSpiderman!

Wow, pretty gutsy move you're about to make, so all the power to ya! ;)
My first question would be, what area of 3D would you like to work in? Would you like to be a modeler? Visual Effects artist (scripting, particles, compositing etc..)? Or maybe an animator?

VFS is very fast, its a crazy machine that churns out hundreds of students each year...but only a handful put an effort into schooling and get jobs. So, if you're planning on going to VFS, it has it's flaws, but it'll definitely introduce you to the world of 3D (it did for me!). But you really have to devote the year to school. Some people go 24/7, but I didn't do that, yet I managed to do fairly well so it can be done.

Anyways, if you're thinking about animation stricktly, then I would *highly* suggest the Animation Mentor online school. If I had a choice then I would do that for sure.

Good luck,

Hi Bartek. I'm going to VFS this October and i want to major in Modeling & Texturing. As you said so, is modeling and animation graduate really hard to get a job nowadays? By the way, i like modeling & texturing more than vfx bacause i want to make something like Final Fantasy character and not vfx.( Sorry for my poor english) So, is modeling really hard to get job?

[MikeRhone]

Yaa... I wouldn't go around expecting 70K/year right out of school. I would prepare myself for 500-700/ week starting salary, maxing out at about 1000-1200/week if you don't move into a supervisory position. Supervisors probably can make up to 1500-1800/week if they are really skilled and experienced.

**Note: Very random ballpark guessing. Definately depends on the studio, experience, market etc etc.


After that, you need to be an owner... :p

Mike R

[Bartek|3D]

Well put! That's why I meantioned it also has to do with timing and luck I think is also pretty big. :)

It's worth pointing out, I think, that just because it might take up to a few months to get a job isn't necessarily a bad reflection on a person's skills. Sometimes it takes a while just because that's how life goes... if you're appling for jobs without any sort of contact at a company, sometimes you just have to get lucky so that your reel gets seen by the right people or that the companies who you're applying to actually have openings in whatever area you're applying for. Sometimes that's just how job hunting goes!

That said, it's still all about the work you do!

[Bartek|3D]

Hey diginime,

It's always a tough question to answer because there are so many factors that go into getting a job. If you want to model and texture, you will definitely learn the tool at VFS and some techniques. I'm not a modeler myself but from what I've seen, then best guys went that extra mile to work long hours, studies anatomy like crazy, learnt new techniques on their own time etc... Those were the guys that got offers pretty damned quick!

B

Hi Bartek. I'm going to VFS this October and i want to major in Modeling & Texturing. As you said so, is modeling and animation graduate really hard to get a job nowadays? By the way, i like modeling & texturing more than vfx bacause i want to make something like Final Fantasy character and not vfx.( Sorry for my poor english) So, is modeling really hard to get job?

[flametio]

Yaa... I wouldn't go around expecting 70K/year right out of school. I would prepare myself for 500-700/ week starting salary, maxing out at about 1000-1200/week if you don't move into a supervisory position. Supervisors probably can make up to 1500-1800/week if they are really skilled and experienced.

**Note: Very random ballpark guessing. Definately depends on the studio, experience, market etc etc.


After that, you need to be an owner... :p

Mike R

hi originally i was going to the same way, but it seems like a supervisor need at least few years experience, i dont believe any movie or game manager would like to hire people who is brand new to do their vfx, that is risky, unless their financial plan is very limited... forgive my bad english too...

[MikeRhone]

Ah, those numbers were meant to guess and represent wages as someone progresses through thier career (In Vancouver)

m

[diginime]

Hey diginime,

It's always a tough question to answer because there are so many factors that go into getting a job. If you want to model and texture, you will definitely learn the tool at VFS and some techniques. I'm not a modeler myself but from what I've seen, then best guys went that extra mile to work long hours, studies anatomy like crazy, learnt new techniques on their own time etc... Those were the guys that got offers pretty damned quick!

B

Thanks Bartek. I heard many people said that they learnt at least 10-15 hours a day, is it true? I'm willing to do anything for my future because i like 3D since 15. So, i'll try my best to improve myself and for my career. So, that's mean good skills can get good job right the way? Thanks.

[XingWei]

Thanks Bartek. I heard many people said that they learnt at least 10-15 hours a day, is it true? I'm willing to do anything for my future because i like 3D since 15. So, i'll try my best to improve myself and for my career. So, that's mean good skills can get good job right the way? Thanks.

That is depends on how the industry is in Malaysia. it is more difficult for international student to get a work visa right after school in north america, some asian friends of mine went back to their country and started working in some small studios just for the experience. I think it is 4+ years experience then you can get work visa in foreign country, correct me if i am wrong.

[ratatat]

Wow, this thread is kicking butt... I thought i'd throw in my 2cents

Being a VFS grad, I have to agree with a lot of the previous responses to this thread. I didn't have a chance to read many, but the general idea was there. It might cost you your left arm to get here and your right leg to survive, but it is COMPLETELY worth every cent. If you want a place to hone your skills and learn with some extremely talented film/cg minds, then this is the place to go. Not only do they prepare you with essential portfolio tools, they teach you to survive in a world where everyones after the same job.

From day one they have you on the computers testing out the programs and from there it's 24/7 learning. If you can take it in they will dish it out. If you run into problems, technical or creative, they'll get the right people around you to help you brainstorm. This was probably the main advantage I found. My peers were willing to share their knowledge and take you to another level of problem solving. It's like a melting pot of genius creative juices.

On the flip side of things, not everyone will be successful. Truth be told, no bs here. This is the genetic makeup of any good program. They will try and test you to apply your best. If you fail to push yourself and create results (vfs slogan: results matter) it will save you from falling into a career where you'll hear 'NO' from every prospective employer. It's true, I've seen first hand.. where people talk and expect having VFS on their resume to bump up their profile. When push comes to shove it's still about having something to show for.

Beyond the industry tested instructors, talented peers, and todays industry tools given to you; the administration is the friendliest group of people one can meet. They don't pressure you to go to VFS for them, but for yourself. They won't be asking for your $$ on first contact. They'll be sure to get you into the right program and mind your needs and previous experience and education.

A few hints before attending...
1) !!!know how to draw, or at least hold a foundation!!!
2) learn as much about the industry before jumping in (jobs, income, locations)
3) don't be the annoying person in the classroom ( there's always one!, and they usually don't know it)
4) Able to get to class at 9am...hahha (and not fall asleep in class)
5) Good Hygiene. enough said

If you are willing to give 200%, able to take critisism openly and not personally, open your ideas to others, and give you left arm for tuition; then this is the place for you. Not only do you get to meet some amazing people, but you carry those experiences with you long after. Don't be surprised to put in 100-130 hr. weeks during production and wishing you had a coffee IV. It's part of the experience and something I'll never forget.


To all the VFS alum and future VFS students.. BEST OF LUCK (and leave me with some jobs)... :p

[diginime]

That is depends on how the industry is in Malaysia. it is more difficult for international student to get a work visa right after school in north america, some asian friends of mine went back to their country and started working in some small studios just for the experience. I think it is 4+ years experience then you can get work visa in foreign country, correct me if i am wrong.

CG industry in Malaysia is not good. This is truth. I plan to go Singapore or Japan, or maybe Canada IF can. Anyway, i know it needs work experience and skills. Thanks XingWei. I'll try my best in VFS.

[niva]

Holy mother, I just read a huge chunk of this thread. Thanks for everyone for posting here about their experiences. I'm starting to believe now that art and cg will always simply be hobbies for me that I can make occasional commissions from.

[Wongedan]

vfs is crazy, Im currently studying (more to working on my demoreel in vfs)
- Im kinda feel everything here, curious, frustation, happy, lazy, excited :)

hi pakcik diginme, Im international student that currently studying at vfs now, the most important is what you learn, you want to create the first working demoreel, rite? me too, im also curious about my job, but why bother ..., as long as you push yourself to another limit

I ve to admit that almost all my classmate , even all vfs student are talented.
they can draw, sculp, waayyy better than my prev univ.
which is good, you gonna get some crits from lots of artistic eyes.

btw if you like to workin japan, learn japs, my friend just got offer from some cool game company but he lost the opportunity because he cant speak japanese >.<


@niva
yes or not, art is art (right or wrong have to be appreciated) , but people can bring art element into the little thing called entertaiment , TV, games, movies and music are entertaiment (that reminds me to kojima's word hehehe)
and entertaiment is big bussiness, thats why artist needed, becouse artist is one of the most influental entertaiment bussiness
of course when the war and earth dissaster occur, art is not needed
people will looking for more important stuff like doctor, cook, etc :)

[diginime]

vfs is crazy, Im currently studying (more to working on my demoreel in vfs)
- Im kinda feel everything here, curious, frustation, happy, lazy, excited :)

hi pakcik diginme, Im international student that currently studying at vfs now, the most important is what you learn, you want to create the first working demoreel, rite? me too, im also curious about my job, but why bother ..., as long as you push yourself to another limit

I ve to admit that almost all my classmate , even all vfs student are talented.
they can draw, sculp, waayyy better than my prev univ.
which is good, you gonna get some crits from lots of artistic eyes.

btw if you like to workin japan, learn japs, my friend just got offer from some cool game company but he lost the opportunity because he cant speak japanese >.<


@niva
yes or not, art is art (right or wrong have to be appreciated) , but people can bring art element into the little thing called entertaiment , TV, games, movies and music are entertaiment (that reminds me to kojima's word hehehe)
and entertaiment is big bussiness, thats why artist needed, becouse artist is one of the most influental entertaiment bussiness
of course when the war and earth dissaster occur, art is not needed
people will looking for more important stuff like doctor, cook, etc :)

Ooo..Thanks dude. Are you Malaysian? I can accept C&C from everyone. I'm pretty excited to go to VFS and i'm ready to face all the problems and difficulties. But my drawing skill is not good and i don't know sculpting. Anyway, i'm willing to learn!

[niva]

@niva
yes or not, art is art (right or wrong have to be appreciated) , but people can bring art element into the little thing called entertaiment , TV, games, movies and music are entertaiment (that reminds me to kojima's word hehehe)
and entertaiment is big bussiness, thats why artist needed, becouse artist is one of the most influental entertaiment bussiness
of course when the war and earth dissaster occur, art is not needed
people will looking for more important stuff like doctor, cook, etc :)

I agree with you, it is important, but my comment was not so much about vfs or whether it is worth it to go there to upgrade your skills but related to other people's comments about the industry. I have a very well paying corporate job but lately cg and art has been tugging at me more and more, but the deeper I dig into it the more I'm becoming convinced this is not a good career choice. Right now I rarely work over 40 hours per week. I comfortably make close to 60k in Houston Texas. I've gained some seniority in my job and the benefits are just starting to roll my way, why should I leave this behind for an insecure job which does not provide benefits and forces me to work an average of 70 hours per week? No thanks.

Because of some exposure I've gained recently I've been able to make money with my art, I'll keep doing it for fun. If it ever gets to the point where I roll 30K in the same year because of it I may seriously consider doing it full-time but I can't get a job in the business unless I completely abandon my career and do something like vfs and gain some internal contacts. Almost all job offerings here ask for 2+ years of experience, how can I get 2+ years of experience when I have zero and no title that I've shipped? It's a very educational thread here, you should listen and think deeply.

At the end of the day a job is just a job, some people are lucky to have a job they love. The vast majority of people detest their jobs, I think the cg industry is infested with this type of stressed out miserable underpaid employees rather then happy folks. I think talented freelancers (or underpaid monekys) who open their own successful studios are the few who achieve the career nirvana in cg, the rest will remain unhappy monkeys :)

[diginime]

Hi guys, seniors, i just wondering what is the program that VFS teach now for modeling? Is it Maya or still XSI? I'll be going to VFS this October and gonna take modeling stream. I just want to know more about it. I heard many people said that most studio used Maya and Max, XSI seldom used. Is it true? Which country use XSI the most? I want to be a game character modeler. By the way, anyone have blank room that can rent out at 18 September? Or 1 October? Please e-mail me. Thanks.

[Bartek|3D]

Hi guys, seniors, i just wondering what is the program that VFS teach now for modeling? Is it Maya or still XSI? I'll be going to VFS this October and gonna take modeling stream. I just want to know more about it. I heard many people said that most studio used Maya and Max, XSI seldom used. Is it true? Which country use XSI the most? I want to be a game character modeler. By the way, anyone have blank room that can rent out at 18 September? Or 1 October? Please e-mail me. Thanks.

They've always taught modeling in XSI in the 3D Animation & VFX program, so I'm guessing it's still the case. I know many amazing modelers who were taught in XSI and love it!

[sunnytec]

...........

[PK-man]

Hi guys, seniors, i just wondering what is the program that VFS teach now for modeling? Is it Maya or still XSI? I'll be going to VFS this October and gonna take modeling stream. I just want to know more about it. I heard many people said that most studio used Maya and Max, XSI seldom used. Is it true? Which country use XSI the most? I want to be a game character modeler. By the way, anyone have blank room that can rent out at 18 September? Or 1 October? Please e-mail me. Thanks.

They teach both maya and XSI, but they lean towards XSI. I prefer using XSI because it's great for modeling. Yes, most studios use maya, but they hire you based on your skills, not which software you use.

Hi,
I got informed from VFS that the class for classical animation in oct 2006 is cancel and they want me to put me in august or jan 2006 class
which is not possible.

can the class be cancel????

plz reply soon any1 at VFS or classical aniamton oct class student Today 09:32 AM

I think it is because there aren't enough people applying for the oct class, so they try to persuade those who applied join the other start dates. Usually, the classes in classical are around 15 students (unlike 3D which is usually full). You can ask you advisor how people have also applied for the oct class.

[sunnytec]

...........

[SauceHelmet]

If one was to sign up for their 3D Animation course, what applications do they teach? So far from the demo reels I've seen VFS students using 3DS Max, do they also teach other 3D specific applications, such as Cinema4D, etc?

[Arrghman]

If one was to sign up for their 3D Animation course, what applications do they teach? So far from the demo reels I've seen VFS students using 3DS Max, do they also teach other 3D specific applications, such as Cinema4D, etc?

About four posts up...

They've always taught modeling in XSI in the 3D Animation & VFX program, so I'm guessing it's still the case. I know many amazing modelers who were taught in XSI and love it!

[PK-man]

If one was to sign up for their 3D Animation course, what applications do they teach? So far from the demo reels I've seen VFS students using 3DS Max, do they also teach other 3D specific applications, such as Cinema4D, etc?

They don't have 3dsmax, only maya and XSI. Only the game design program uses 3ds max. Even though they also teach maya, it is geared more towards XSI.

[ShadowM8]

If one was to sign up for their 3D Animation course, what applications do they teach? So far from the demo reels I've seen VFS students using 3DS Max, do they also teach other 3D specific applications, such as Cinema4D, etc?
You can request a copy of 3ds max and usualy they will borow one from Game courses. But you haveto realise that the instructors do not know the application and you will not have any technical support.

[Keaton]

Im thinking about attending VFS, can anyone tell me what the average exp students have with the programs used there is. Do many students join with no exp?

[diginime]

....The program they teach are XSI, Maya. If you are going to specialize in modeling & texturing, you are going to learn more about XSI, if you are VFX, then more to Maya. This is what i had heard. I'm going to VFS this October. I'm pretty excited and waiting to go there. By the way, i think if you do not have any exp you can also join.

[ShadowM8]

Many students come without software exp but most have traditional art experience and this is far more valuable at VFS as it will make your life easier the first 3 terms and will allow you the time to learn the software, more so than the other way around.

[diginime]

Many students come without software exp but most have traditional art experience and this is far more valuable at VFS as it will make your life easier the first 3 terms and will allow you the time to learn the software, more so than the other way around.

My traditional art is very poor...then actually how is the traditional art? How many subjects it includes? Can someone explain a bit? I want to know more about the traditional art subject. Hmm..like how the class function...how the lecturer teach traditional art in class...

[ShadowM8]

You have about half and half for the first 3 terms. Traditional classes include: character design, composition, classical animation, life drawing, sculpting, storyboarding. There's very little instruction during these classes most of the time you are working on the assignments, hence if your drawing skills are subpar you will be spending a lot of extra time fighting to complete these assignments rather than learning the theory behind what you are doing. So I suggest you pick up a pencil and start drawing as much as posible so that you will be as comfortable as possible.

[Disturbed]

Do any of the above mentioned schools have some good Motion Capture suits/setups? And by any chance do they allow up and coming designers to use them for a bit? -- or even a local studio

I have a project in the making, but somewhere down the road it will without a doubt need some motion capture being done for a character as there is just no way to animate it by myself -- the amount of time required would be ludicrous. Obviously I would show them the work so far (it's for the last scene) and the current renders of the model, etc. and if they'd be interested.

Any chance at all? Or am i dreaming