Kskovbo
10-04-2008, 09:40 AM
I've been accepted into the may 4th 09 3d animation & visual effects aswell.
See you over there future classmates!
See you over there future classmates!
View Full Version : Vancouver Film School
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Helgi
10-04-2008, 11:56 AM
if i whant to be a compositor or an effect TD is the vfx department in vfs right for me?
Yes, I think the visual effects stream is perfect for you if you want to be a TD or a scripting-inclined vfx guy since Alastair Macleod is now the head of the 3D department and he has a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience in vfx, scripting and mo-cap, he's also a really nice guy. They're also bringing in a another vfx mentor which is really good and really knowledgable plus you will also get compositing classess so I think (if you have the $$) that going to the vfx stream in 2009 will be a good choice for you, becaues it might take them some time to get a good system going with all the new mentors.
But all in all going there is just an awesome experience and very rewarding if you're willing to work very hard and dedicate one year of your life to studying what you (hopefully) love.
Yes, I think the visual effects stream is perfect for you if you want to be a TD or a scripting-inclined vfx guy since Alastair Macleod is now the head of the 3D department and he has a tremendous amount of knowledge and experience in vfx, scripting and mo-cap, he's also a really nice guy. They're also bringing in a another vfx mentor which is really good and really knowledgable plus you will also get compositing classess so I think (if you have the $$) that going to the vfx stream in 2009 will be a good choice for you, becaues it might take them some time to get a good system going with all the new mentors.
But all in all going there is just an awesome experience and very rewarding if you're willing to work very hard and dedicate one year of your life to studying what you (hopefully) love.
shimi
10-04-2008, 12:30 PM
thank's for the reply helgi
frome were do you know so much about the teacher's and the school?
frome were do you know so much about the teacher's and the school?
Helgi
10-04-2008, 01:10 PM
frome were do you know so much about the teacher's and the school?
Well, I graduated from the vfx stream in October 2007 and have been keeping in touch with a lot of the mentors and teachers there, some of them are good friends of mine now. Spending so much time there at school and with all of those people it kind of becomes like your family. So I still try to see what's going on with the school and what's coming out of there :)
Well, I graduated from the vfx stream in October 2007 and have been keeping in touch with a lot of the mentors and teachers there, some of them are good friends of mine now. Spending so much time there at school and with all of those people it kind of becomes like your family. So I still try to see what's going on with the school and what's coming out of there :)
bishtmahesh
10-04-2008, 06:03 PM
Can anyone suggest me howz digital charcater animation course at VFS..? anyone here frm DCA course..?
oasis8623
10-07-2008, 04:57 AM
Hi all,
I am very seriously thinking about game design at VFS for 2009 and wondering if its difficult to get in or not..
I'm in college but have been hating what i've been doing, and as a result my grades have been...not very good at all. at all. haha...but I was pressured into this path by parents and whatnot and now i'm deciding to take a 90 degree turn and do what i've actually wanted to do for years.
I'm 22 by the way, and knowing that VFS asks for high school and college transcripts if applicable, I was wondering how these bad college grades would affect my application in you all's opinion.
Any insight or advice will be greatly appreciated, so thanks in advance.
I am very seriously thinking about game design at VFS for 2009 and wondering if its difficult to get in or not..
I'm in college but have been hating what i've been doing, and as a result my grades have been...not very good at all. at all. haha...but I was pressured into this path by parents and whatnot and now i'm deciding to take a 90 degree turn and do what i've actually wanted to do for years.
I'm 22 by the way, and knowing that VFS asks for high school and college transcripts if applicable, I was wondering how these bad college grades would affect my application in you all's opinion.
Any insight or advice will be greatly appreciated, so thanks in advance.
shimi
10-07-2008, 08:46 AM
helgi
what can you tell me about the every day life
i have a ton of question if you dont mind
first how muce time do you spend in school?
how much is the rent?
how is vancouver?
do you have day's off?
and what ever you can think of that would be usfall
what can you tell me about the every day life
i have a ton of question if you dont mind
first how muce time do you spend in school?
how much is the rent?
how is vancouver?
do you have day's off?
and what ever you can think of that would be usfall
Helgi
10-07-2008, 10:44 AM
Hi Shimi,
The amount of time you spend at school is all up to you, the school only requires you to be in school for classes. The first six months are mainly just classes and homework which take some time to do but don't kill youself the first terms because you're going to need all that energy for the second half of the year. The last six months are only demo-reel based (with some classes) but in that period I spent on avarage maybe 13-15 hours a day at school including weekends. Sure you can take the weekends off but the way we did was we worked our a**es off throughout the week, took friday nights off to go out and have some fun and then came back to school on saturday afternoon and worked all weekend.
That seemed to work pretty well for us and luckily for me I had a such wonderful class and we used to do a lot together, go to movies, go out to eat together, go out partying and more. That helped us bonding and getting closer together which helped us when it came working with each other because you spend so much time with each other, and get help and comments from each other, that if the class doesn't get along it's going to affect everybody in the class which will bring the quality of the work down for most of the class. So I would strongly recommend to anyone who goes to the school to try to bring the class together and try to do as much together as possible.
The rent there depends on how many people you want to share an apartment with. I shared a really nice apartment in the downtown area (5 mins walk from school) with a classmate of mine and his wife and the place was $1500 a month which we then split up between us. So rent varies from maybe 400-1500$, depends on where you want to stay and how much you want to pay but you can find decent places for not too much money close to school. My advice regarding finding a place is just walk around the area close to school and you'll see signs outside of buildings which have rooms available. You should be able to find a decent place pretty quickly.
Vancouver is just a beautiful place, the people there are just great and really friendly. It rains a lot during the winter time but other than that it's just a wonderful place. The summers there are really nice and you can hang out on the beach (which is right next to the campus) and go up to the mountains. The British Columbia area is such a beautiful place and I plan to go there again and live there.
So if you're passionate about 3D and film making you shouldn't have a problem spending all this time at school and dedicate one year of your life to study hard and put (almost) everything else on hold in the meantime. But going there is a well worth experience and should accelerate your career up a few notches. It did for me and going there was the best life experience I have ever had.
Damn this post turned out to be pretty long and I sound like I'm promoting the school :D But this is just my point of view and if you have more questions just throw them my way :)
The amount of time you spend at school is all up to you, the school only requires you to be in school for classes. The first six months are mainly just classes and homework which take some time to do but don't kill youself the first terms because you're going to need all that energy for the second half of the year. The last six months are only demo-reel based (with some classes) but in that period I spent on avarage maybe 13-15 hours a day at school including weekends. Sure you can take the weekends off but the way we did was we worked our a**es off throughout the week, took friday nights off to go out and have some fun and then came back to school on saturday afternoon and worked all weekend.
That seemed to work pretty well for us and luckily for me I had a such wonderful class and we used to do a lot together, go to movies, go out to eat together, go out partying and more. That helped us bonding and getting closer together which helped us when it came working with each other because you spend so much time with each other, and get help and comments from each other, that if the class doesn't get along it's going to affect everybody in the class which will bring the quality of the work down for most of the class. So I would strongly recommend to anyone who goes to the school to try to bring the class together and try to do as much together as possible.
The rent there depends on how many people you want to share an apartment with. I shared a really nice apartment in the downtown area (5 mins walk from school) with a classmate of mine and his wife and the place was $1500 a month which we then split up between us. So rent varies from maybe 400-1500$, depends on where you want to stay and how much you want to pay but you can find decent places for not too much money close to school. My advice regarding finding a place is just walk around the area close to school and you'll see signs outside of buildings which have rooms available. You should be able to find a decent place pretty quickly.
Vancouver is just a beautiful place, the people there are just great and really friendly. It rains a lot during the winter time but other than that it's just a wonderful place. The summers there are really nice and you can hang out on the beach (which is right next to the campus) and go up to the mountains. The British Columbia area is such a beautiful place and I plan to go there again and live there.
So if you're passionate about 3D and film making you shouldn't have a problem spending all this time at school and dedicate one year of your life to study hard and put (almost) everything else on hold in the meantime. But going there is a well worth experience and should accelerate your career up a few notches. It did for me and going there was the best life experience I have ever had.
Damn this post turned out to be pretty long and I sound like I'm promoting the school :D But this is just my point of view and if you have more questions just throw them my way :)
shimi
10-07-2008, 11:58 AM
Hi helgi
that post was long :thumbsup: but the more the merrier
I just saw some of your work on your website men you rock
the reel with the airplane is actually one of my favorite
what can you tell me about how you made it?
did you work wite a writer , and did you do a story Board?
did you had any experience in 3d or composting before vfs?
how are the class takes place what i mean how many are you in the class
and is there also a one on one time wite the Thacher
after you choose the vfx stream how does it go?
thanks for taking the time and answering my stupid question
chen
that post was long :thumbsup: but the more the merrier
I just saw some of your work on your website men you rock
the reel with the airplane is actually one of my favorite
what can you tell me about how you made it?
did you work wite a writer , and did you do a story Board?
did you had any experience in 3d or composting before vfs?
how are the class takes place what i mean how many are you in the class
and is there also a one on one time wite the Thacher
after you choose the vfx stream how does it go?
thanks for taking the time and answering my stupid question
chen
Khannalxy'tys
10-11-2008, 09:54 AM
Hi helgi
that post was long :thumbsup: but the more the merrier
I just saw some of your work on your website men you rock
the reel with the airplane is actually one of my favorite
what can you tell me about how you made it?
did you work wite a writer , and did you do a story Board?
did you had any experience in 3d or composting before vfs?
how are the class takes place what i mean how many are you in the class
and is there also a one on one time wite the Thacher
after you choose the vfx stream how does it go?
thanks for taking the time and answering my stupid question
chen
I can answer some of those questions as I`m in VFS right now. Term one though so I haven`t chosen my stream yet.
Much like Shimi there, I`d stronly recommend students to try to get the class together. If you help each other out and create a friendly work-oriented atmosphere your work in the end will be much better (yours and of the class itself) than if you just go about your business. Much like him we also take the friday nights out and work our asses during the week+sat+sun. If you are really passionate about going into the industry, this year must be your year off from life outside. Not that you shouldn`t eat, exercise, or breathe during that year, you should, but the fact is that it`s that one defining year where you have everything you need available to you to get your education one step further.
Some make the mistake of thinking VFS has a magic talent pill or that the school itself makes you a killer artist. It`s not what VFS is all about. It won`t magically make you good. It won`t. They do prepare you, they have the instructors and the knowledge but the thing is, in the end, it`s YOU who will become a product of your own dedication. What they contribute to that end is with resources. You will have all you need to take that next step. And by all you need I mean ALL YOU NEED. You have book resources, dvds, computing power to render your stuff, art supplies cheaper than most places (that is if you use up all your credits, in which case you need to buy more points to get more stuff), you can even rent wacom tablets and cameras for your reference needs. But one thing that is probably the most invaluable is the social aspect of it. I`m not just talking about the connection from people inside the industry i`m talking about your classmates and people from other classes. Not only do they contribute to the learning experience (you can always find people working on their things there at ALL times) but a lot of the stuff you learn from the school comes from your peers. That`s part of the reason why it`s so important to establish a friendly networking atmosphere with your class. They`ll be one of the most powerful tools for your learning experience. These are the reasons (unless I forgot something) why it`s safe to say that this is a great school. But in the end, it`s not what VFS can do for you but what you can do for yourself with the help of VFS and the resources + networking that it gives you.
We, at class 3d76, are 30 right now. It`s a lot of people but as many as they will take per term.
The classes I`ve had so far have mostly followed the following pattern:
Lecture with demonstration. Practice time (in which the teacher and his technical assistant walk around the room helping those who need. Which would be your one on one time). Break time for 10 minutes. Teacher hands out assignment. Small lecture on how to do it, time to work on it with teacher`s supervision.
Many in my class also spend 12-15 hours in or studying by themselves, even though the classes take normally 7 hours or sometimes 10.
I pay 710 CA for rent but that`s because I share it with 2 roommates. Allegedly this city is very expensive in terms of housing. Food is ok though, I don`t really have a comparison with other cities but I spend around 200 a week with food, supplies, laundry, etc. Some might spend less. Probably a lot of people though..
Vancouver is great. Coming from Rio de Janeiro I don`t get the fuss about the homeless. Granted there are many but they mostly stick to themselves and I`ve never been robbed at gunpoint (which happens in rio) so I feel a little more safe =)
It rains a LOT though. So be prepared. They actually give you an umbrella on your first day at school so you should take the hint and not forget it at home like I always do heh..
Hmm it seems like 3d people take less time off than other people so I wouldn`t know what to answer there.. my roommate`s in acting and they have the week off now. We only have one day, but in all honesty I seriously don`t need any more breaks. Being there is just FUN because of both what we are studying and because the class itself.. so again, make friends =) That was an awesome advice from someone that I hadn`t realized how important it was until we actually started having classes.
Anyway, if you have any more questions that I can anwer, shoot =)
that post was long :thumbsup: but the more the merrier
I just saw some of your work on your website men you rock
the reel with the airplane is actually one of my favorite
what can you tell me about how you made it?
did you work wite a writer , and did you do a story Board?
did you had any experience in 3d or composting before vfs?
how are the class takes place what i mean how many are you in the class
and is there also a one on one time wite the Thacher
after you choose the vfx stream how does it go?
thanks for taking the time and answering my stupid question
chen
I can answer some of those questions as I`m in VFS right now. Term one though so I haven`t chosen my stream yet.
Much like Shimi there, I`d stronly recommend students to try to get the class together. If you help each other out and create a friendly work-oriented atmosphere your work in the end will be much better (yours and of the class itself) than if you just go about your business. Much like him we also take the friday nights out and work our asses during the week+sat+sun. If you are really passionate about going into the industry, this year must be your year off from life outside. Not that you shouldn`t eat, exercise, or breathe during that year, you should, but the fact is that it`s that one defining year where you have everything you need available to you to get your education one step further.
Some make the mistake of thinking VFS has a magic talent pill or that the school itself makes you a killer artist. It`s not what VFS is all about. It won`t magically make you good. It won`t. They do prepare you, they have the instructors and the knowledge but the thing is, in the end, it`s YOU who will become a product of your own dedication. What they contribute to that end is with resources. You will have all you need to take that next step. And by all you need I mean ALL YOU NEED. You have book resources, dvds, computing power to render your stuff, art supplies cheaper than most places (that is if you use up all your credits, in which case you need to buy more points to get more stuff), you can even rent wacom tablets and cameras for your reference needs. But one thing that is probably the most invaluable is the social aspect of it. I`m not just talking about the connection from people inside the industry i`m talking about your classmates and people from other classes. Not only do they contribute to the learning experience (you can always find people working on their things there at ALL times) but a lot of the stuff you learn from the school comes from your peers. That`s part of the reason why it`s so important to establish a friendly networking atmosphere with your class. They`ll be one of the most powerful tools for your learning experience. These are the reasons (unless I forgot something) why it`s safe to say that this is a great school. But in the end, it`s not what VFS can do for you but what you can do for yourself with the help of VFS and the resources + networking that it gives you.
We, at class 3d76, are 30 right now. It`s a lot of people but as many as they will take per term.
The classes I`ve had so far have mostly followed the following pattern:
Lecture with demonstration. Practice time (in which the teacher and his technical assistant walk around the room helping those who need. Which would be your one on one time). Break time for 10 minutes. Teacher hands out assignment. Small lecture on how to do it, time to work on it with teacher`s supervision.
Many in my class also spend 12-15 hours in or studying by themselves, even though the classes take normally 7 hours or sometimes 10.
I pay 710 CA for rent but that`s because I share it with 2 roommates. Allegedly this city is very expensive in terms of housing. Food is ok though, I don`t really have a comparison with other cities but I spend around 200 a week with food, supplies, laundry, etc. Some might spend less. Probably a lot of people though..
Vancouver is great. Coming from Rio de Janeiro I don`t get the fuss about the homeless. Granted there are many but they mostly stick to themselves and I`ve never been robbed at gunpoint (which happens in rio) so I feel a little more safe =)
It rains a LOT though. So be prepared. They actually give you an umbrella on your first day at school so you should take the hint and not forget it at home like I always do heh..
Hmm it seems like 3d people take less time off than other people so I wouldn`t know what to answer there.. my roommate`s in acting and they have the week off now. We only have one day, but in all honesty I seriously don`t need any more breaks. Being there is just FUN because of both what we are studying and because the class itself.. so again, make friends =) That was an awesome advice from someone that I hadn`t realized how important it was until we actually started having classes.
Anyway, if you have any more questions that I can anwer, shoot =)
blam90
10-11-2008, 06:58 PM
In terms about housing, how much is the total with ur 2 other roomates?
and how far is it from campus? I won't be entering the school till next year around may, 710 seems expensive, it is possible to find housing around 500-600 with shared cost of roomates of course.
Thanks for the previous in-depth relpy!
and how far is it from campus? I won't be entering the school till next year around may, 710 seems expensive, it is possible to find housing around 500-600 with shared cost of roomates of course.
Thanks for the previous in-depth relpy!
Khannalxy'tys
10-12-2008, 08:09 PM
Yeah it`s possible. I`ve friends renting basements for 500 a month. Though the cheapest you find possibly is also the farthest you`ll be from VFS.
This other friend lives nearby and seems to be getting a good price where he lives. I`ll ask him and let you know.
This other friend lives nearby and seems to be getting a good price where he lives. I`ll ask him and let you know.
shimi
10-15-2008, 11:15 PM
hi everyone
i just gut accsepted to vfs may 4
so i guess i will be seen you
shimi
i just gut accsepted to vfs may 4
so i guess i will be seen you
shimi
Kskovbo
10-16-2008, 07:00 AM
Cool, we'll be seeing then!
/Klaus
/Klaus
googboog8
10-28-2008, 08:01 AM
Yeah it`s possible. I`ve friends renting basements for 500 a month. Though the cheapest you find possibly is also the farthest you`ll be from VFS.
This other friend lives nearby and seems to be getting a good price where he lives. I`ll ask him and let you know.
hey carlos, u talking about me??
heheh
This other friend lives nearby and seems to be getting a good price where he lives. I`ll ask him and let you know.
hey carlos, u talking about me??
heheh
googboog8
10-28-2008, 08:11 AM
Hi all,
I am very seriously thinking about game design at VFS for 2009 and wondering if its difficult to get in or not..
I'm in college but have been hating what i've been doing, and as a result my grades have been...not very good at all. at all. haha...but I was pressured into this path by parents and whatnot and now i'm deciding to take a 90 degree turn and do what i've actually wanted to do for years.
I'm 22 by the way, and knowing that VFS asks for high school and college transcripts if applicable, I was wondering how these bad college grades would affect my application in you all's opinion.
Any insight or advice will be greatly appreciated, so thanks in advance.
go for it... i joined engineering because my parents told me to and i sucked at it. i wasted 5 years of my life and regretted every minute of it, my grades were awful and i hated going to class. i kept doing 3d and 2d stuff to keep myself from going insane. when i applied to vfs all they wanted was my portfolio. if you want to pursue a career in 3d, go for it. dont let anything stop you from doing it. now i'm glad i'm in vfs, and even my parents are glad, much happier than they were when i was at the bottom of the class in engineering.
edit : cant believe i was asking for help 3 pages back, heheh
I am very seriously thinking about game design at VFS for 2009 and wondering if its difficult to get in or not..
I'm in college but have been hating what i've been doing, and as a result my grades have been...not very good at all. at all. haha...but I was pressured into this path by parents and whatnot and now i'm deciding to take a 90 degree turn and do what i've actually wanted to do for years.
I'm 22 by the way, and knowing that VFS asks for high school and college transcripts if applicable, I was wondering how these bad college grades would affect my application in you all's opinion.
Any insight or advice will be greatly appreciated, so thanks in advance.
go for it... i joined engineering because my parents told me to and i sucked at it. i wasted 5 years of my life and regretted every minute of it, my grades were awful and i hated going to class. i kept doing 3d and 2d stuff to keep myself from going insane. when i applied to vfs all they wanted was my portfolio. if you want to pursue a career in 3d, go for it. dont let anything stop you from doing it. now i'm glad i'm in vfs, and even my parents are glad, much happier than they were when i was at the bottom of the class in engineering.
edit : cant believe i was asking for help 3 pages back, heheh
animationhohogrl
11-04-2008, 04:58 AM
August 09 3d animation program here I come!!! EEEEEK!
scorflame
11-05-2008, 02:45 AM
Hey everyone, I'm a newbie at CGTalk and this will be my first post here. And as a fellow member I need a lil help from all of you.
I have an option of going to either VFS or Vanarts for their one year programs. I'm mainly interested in going for character animation and I've heard that VFS is a better school than Vanarts. But I've also heard that VFS is great for modelling stream and for animation Vanarts is better. I've gotten through both schools and I need to decide pretty soon which school to go for considering my requirements.
What do you guys feel...which one is better for character animation? VFS or Vanarts?
I have an option of going to either VFS or Vanarts for their one year programs. I'm mainly interested in going for character animation and I've heard that VFS is a better school than Vanarts. But I've also heard that VFS is great for modelling stream and for animation Vanarts is better. I've gotten through both schools and I need to decide pretty soon which school to go for considering my requirements.
What do you guys feel...which one is better for character animation? VFS or Vanarts?
viciousdjoker
11-08-2008, 04:01 PM
Well, I'm thinking about attending in January. As soon as i talk to an advisor. I am thinking about starting off in the foundation program. Any one know if it is any good? Or if ill be wasting my time? I have taken about 30 credits in community college on art, if you could take a look at my gallery and tell me if i should take it. I would be appreciative.
googboog8
11-08-2008, 07:27 PM
i have friends who attended foundation and are now in the 3d course with me and they said they did the same thing twice. almost, and a few extra things they wont need.
if you have no experience in 3d or drawing at all, then you can do the foundation course. otherwise, i think it's a waste of time, even people who dont have 3d experience can catch up, and there are a few in my class who've become better than those who have used 3d before
if you have no experience in 3d or drawing at all, then you can do the foundation course. otherwise, i think it's a waste of time, even people who dont have 3d experience can catch up, and there are a few in my class who've become better than those who have used 3d before
Towley
11-29-2008, 04:46 PM
Hey, I'm starting at VFS in June 09 on the 3D Modelling and Visual Effects course, is anyone else here starting in June?
After reading this thread I can't wait to get stuck into my time there! I'm moving out from the UK in early June and it would be great to hear from anyone I might be sharing a class with.
Cheers,
Will
After reading this thread I can't wait to get stuck into my time there! I'm moving out from the UK in early June and it would be great to hear from anyone I might be sharing a class with.
Cheers,
Will
omorenof
11-29-2008, 06:53 PM
hey towley
Thats good to hear that you start on june 09... thats what i am doing too..
right now i am taking the foundation program... i will finish that program on june and 4 days after that i start the 3d course...
feel free to add me to your IM..
do you have any experience with 3d??
cheers buddy
Thats good to hear that you start on june 09... thats what i am doing too..
right now i am taking the foundation program... i will finish that program on june and 4 days after that i start the 3d course...
feel free to add me to your IM..
do you have any experience with 3d??
cheers buddy
Towley
11-30-2008, 01:44 PM
Hey, great to hear from you!
Yeah I have some experience with 3D, I started using 3DS Max as part of my degree probably just over a year ago now, then more recently I've converted over to Maya (thank god for that, I prefer Maya so much!). I'm currently working on a pretty big VFX shot for my final year project (degree again) and trying to incorporate as much of the software VFS has told me they use into it to get as much exp. as possible :P
You can check out my website here:
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/Users/wt31/
How about you, Hows the foundation year going? Enjoying your time there? I wish I could have done it, but I'm hoping to be up-to-scratch enough as I am... hopefully!
Will
Yeah I have some experience with 3D, I started using 3DS Max as part of my degree probably just over a year ago now, then more recently I've converted over to Maya (thank god for that, I prefer Maya so much!). I'm currently working on a pretty big VFX shot for my final year project (degree again) and trying to incorporate as much of the software VFS has told me they use into it to get as much exp. as possible :P
You can check out my website here:
http://www.sussex.ac.uk/Users/wt31/
How about you, Hows the foundation year going? Enjoying your time there? I wish I could have done it, but I'm hoping to be up-to-scratch enough as I am... hopefully!
Will
j0j0y
12-05-2008, 10:43 PM
Heya!
I'll be starting the foundational course in March! I'm terrified mostly of living in another country on my own... but I'm sure I'll get over it.
The thing is... will/can the foundational course be as much of a time sink as the actual 3D course? I want to get as much out of the program as I can... especially because it's so expensive! Working for hours and hours excites me... so in a way I hope that's what I need to do ^^
I'll be starting the foundational course in March! I'm terrified mostly of living in another country on my own... but I'm sure I'll get over it.
The thing is... will/can the foundational course be as much of a time sink as the actual 3D course? I want to get as much out of the program as I can... especially because it's so expensive! Working for hours and hours excites me... so in a way I hope that's what I need to do ^^
ShadowM8
12-06-2008, 01:06 AM
The Foundation course is usually not as intense but I think it's mostly because students don't take it as seriously. There's plenty of different projects during the year and you can really invest yourself into creating some great work if you choose to and get as much out of that year as you want.
Don't worry about living on your own. It takes some getting use to but it is an awesome experience.
Don't worry about living on your own. It takes some getting use to but it is an awesome experience.
j0j0y
12-06-2008, 04:12 AM
Thanks for the reply!
And that's good to hear! It was a little discouraging when I saw very little animation work from the foundation course on their website...
I'm going to give it my absolute all though so maybe you'll some work from me up there in a year's time!
And that's good to hear! It was a little discouraging when I saw very little animation work from the foundation course on their website...
I'm going to give it my absolute all though so maybe you'll some work from me up there in a year's time!
my7hai
12-07-2008, 08:40 AM
the foundation students normally dont pull of highquality work until they go to the other courses like 3d animation and visual effects. (thats where i am atm)
dont worry, in the vfs they drill us to the max, hard work totally gets a new meaning :D
its not unusual to work over 18 hours some days :D
but its fun, and u definitely will get everything out of it u want to if u are willing to.
dont worry, in the vfs they drill us to the max, hard work totally gets a new meaning :D
its not unusual to work over 18 hours some days :D
but its fun, and u definitely will get everything out of it u want to if u are willing to.
eldee
12-15-2008, 03:05 AM
I didn't go through the foundations program, so I can't say for certain- but it seems like the introductory stuff they teach covers a pretty wide gamut of what VFS offers in terms of programs.
for example, I was walking through the foundations area the other day and saw a bunch of improvised maps on the wall (ie: making a circuit board look like a map, that sort of thing). That type of thing is more along the lines of what the Digital Design program offers.
Either way, the foundations department is actually on the same floor as the 3D/VFX department, so you can peek into classrooms and see what's going on during lab time :D
for example, I was walking through the foundations area the other day and saw a bunch of improvised maps on the wall (ie: making a circuit board look like a map, that sort of thing). That type of thing is more along the lines of what the Digital Design program offers.
Either way, the foundations department is actually on the same floor as the 3D/VFX department, so you can peek into classrooms and see what's going on during lab time :D
lindstr0m
12-15-2008, 04:33 AM
I am also interested in the 3D/VFX program and I want to ask whether the portfolio requires you to submit in drawing and traditional medium. I only have portfolio of mainly 3D and multimedia stuff(graphic design,flash etc) and has anyone got in without the submission of drawing portfolio? It seems the Aug 31 and Oct 26 are the only programs with seats left. I hope to try it out. Do they have a strong drawing/sculpting curriculum in the first quarter? I also want to ask how difficult is for us asians to get jobs after completing this program? Will we be eligible for work visa or we have to go back to our countries to work?
blam90
12-15-2008, 05:01 AM
Hey lindstrom
You do have to show some life drawing, gestures, hands, heads, structures, just to show that your familiar with art fundamentals. I got in for the May intake, you can take a look at my blog for the examples i showed to the admission boards. blam90.blogspot.com
For jobs, I have 2 friends who are international students and got jobs right after college, in Toronto as long as you have a strong reel then the companies will sponser you. I hope that helps.
You do have to show some life drawing, gestures, hands, heads, structures, just to show that your familiar with art fundamentals. I got in for the May intake, you can take a look at my blog for the examples i showed to the admission boards. blam90.blogspot.com
For jobs, I have 2 friends who are international students and got jobs right after college, in Toronto as long as you have a strong reel then the companies will sponser you. I hope that helps.
eldee
12-15-2008, 05:19 AM
I am also interested in the 3D/VFX program and I want to ask whether the portfolio requires you to submit in drawing and traditional medium. I only have portfolio of mainly 3D and multimedia stuff(graphic design,flash etc) and has anyone got in without the submission of drawing portfolio?
you have to submit a portfolio, there's no question about that. And of that, I'm 99% sure drawing must be part of it. You can also include other pieces, even web designs or ad campaigns. Judging by some of the drawing I've seen, they don't really hold it in too high regard for entry. Before I went to VFS the admissions people kind of ranted about what high standards they have for portfolio pieces, but that's just not true from my own observations. In other words, if you send them a portfolio and prove that you have the money (or at least the loan) to get into the school- they will let you in. Whether or not you'll have a hard time once you're here is another story.
If you can't draw you will probably have a hard time with modeling. 3D animation is probably less dependant on drawing- even though life drawing will establish gesture that is crucial for animation. Also, the classical animation assignments aren't very 'art' heavy. The instructor is pretty upfront with his expectations, and as long as you complete the assignment's goals, you can draw stick figures for all he cares.
Hopefully that answers your question about how much 'drawing' you'll actually be doing. Regarding sculpture- there is a sculpture in term one but I found it to be a joke for the most part. It's basically a 'this is clay, get your hands dirty' class. There's no real grading criteria for the final product of the class, so what you do is completely arbitrary. Later on if you choose the modeling stream though there are advanced sculpture classes that are more in-depth.
you have to submit a portfolio, there's no question about that. And of that, I'm 99% sure drawing must be part of it. You can also include other pieces, even web designs or ad campaigns. Judging by some of the drawing I've seen, they don't really hold it in too high regard for entry. Before I went to VFS the admissions people kind of ranted about what high standards they have for portfolio pieces, but that's just not true from my own observations. In other words, if you send them a portfolio and prove that you have the money (or at least the loan) to get into the school- they will let you in. Whether or not you'll have a hard time once you're here is another story.
If you can't draw you will probably have a hard time with modeling. 3D animation is probably less dependant on drawing- even though life drawing will establish gesture that is crucial for animation. Also, the classical animation assignments aren't very 'art' heavy. The instructor is pretty upfront with his expectations, and as long as you complete the assignment's goals, you can draw stick figures for all he cares.
Hopefully that answers your question about how much 'drawing' you'll actually be doing. Regarding sculpture- there is a sculpture in term one but I found it to be a joke for the most part. It's basically a 'this is clay, get your hands dirty' class. There's no real grading criteria for the final product of the class, so what you do is completely arbitrary. Later on if you choose the modeling stream though there are advanced sculpture classes that are more in-depth.
ShadowM8
12-15-2008, 07:56 PM
You can absolutely get admitted without showing a 2d portfolio (or any portfolio for that matter). However you still need to demonstrate that you are competent and can succeed in the program to an extent. That could be tough to do without a portfolio and would probably require an interview with admission advisor.
However if you do not have a solid grasp of drawing you will find the first 3 terms rather difficult and frustrating! Especially if you are self-conscious about your drawing skills.
While you do get instructions in traditional media it's nowhere near enough to make an artist out of you.
However if you do not have a solid grasp of drawing you will find the first 3 terms rather difficult and frustrating! Especially if you are self-conscious about your drawing skills.
While you do get instructions in traditional media it's nowhere near enough to make an artist out of you.
googboog8
12-16-2008, 03:25 AM
I can answer some of those questions as I`m in VFS right now. Term one though so I haven`t chosen my stream yet.
Much like Shimi there, I`d stronly recommend students to try to get the class together. If you help each other out and create a friendly work-oriented atmosphere your work in the end will be much better (yours and of the class itself) than if you just go about your business. Much like him we also take the friday nights out and work our asses during the week+sat+sun. If you are really passionate about going into the industry, this year must be your year off from life outside. Not that you shouldn`t eat, exercise, or breathe during that year, you should, but the fact is that it`s that one defining year where you have everything you need available to you to get your education one step further.
Some make the mistake of thinking VFS has a magic talent pill or that the school itself makes you a killer artist. It`s not what VFS is all about. It won`t magically make you good. It won`t. They do prepare you, they have the instructors and the knowledge but the thing is, in the end, it`s YOU who will become a product of your own dedication. What they contribute to that end is with resources. You will have all you need to take that next step. And by all you need I mean ALL YOU NEED. You have book resources, dvds, computing power to render your stuff, art supplies cheaper than most places (that is if you use up all your credits, in which case you need to buy more points to get more stuff), you can even rent wacom tablets and cameras for your reference needs. But one thing that is probably the most invaluable is the social aspect of it. I`m not just talking about the connection from people inside the industry i`m talking about your classmates and people from other classes. Not only do they contribute to the learning experience (you can always find people working on their things there at ALL times) but a lot of the stuff you learn from the school comes from your peers. That`s part of the reason why it`s so important to establish a friendly networking atmosphere with your class. They`ll be one of the most powerful tools for your learning experience. These are the reasons (unless I forgot something) why it`s safe to say that this is a great school. But in the end, it`s not what VFS can do for you but what you can do for yourself with the help of VFS and the resources + networking that it gives you.
We, at class 3d76, are 30 right now. It`s a lot of people but as many as they will take per term.
The classes I`ve had so far have mostly followed the following pattern:
Lecture with demonstration. Practice time (in which the teacher and his technical assistant walk around the room helping those who need. Which would be your one on one time). Break time for 10 minutes. Teacher hands out assignment. Small lecture on how to do it, time to work on it with teacher`s supervision.
Many in my class also spend 12-15 hours in or studying by themselves, even though the classes take normally 7 hours or sometimes 10.
I pay 710 CA for rent but that`s because I share it with 2 roommates. Allegedly this city is very expensive in terms of housing. Food is ok though, I don`t really have a comparison with other cities but I spend around 200 a week with food, supplies, laundry, etc. Some might spend less. Probably a lot of people though..
Vancouver is great. Coming from Rio de Janeiro I don`t get the fuss about the homeless. Granted there are many but they mostly stick to themselves and I`ve never been robbed at gunpoint (which happens in rio) so I feel a little more safe =)
It rains a LOT though. So be prepared. They actually give you an umbrella on your first day at school so you should take the hint and not forget it at home like I always do heh..
Hmm it seems like 3d people take less time off than other people so I wouldn`t know what to answer there.. my roommate`s in acting and they have the week off now. We only have one day, but in all honesty I seriously don`t need any more breaks. Being there is just FUN because of both what we are studying and because the class itself.. so again, make friends =) That was an awesome advice from someone that I hadn`t realized how important it was until we actually started having classes.
Anyway, if you have any more questions that I can anwer, shoot =)
..... man... i still think you're making a mistake
Much like Shimi there, I`d stronly recommend students to try to get the class together. If you help each other out and create a friendly work-oriented atmosphere your work in the end will be much better (yours and of the class itself) than if you just go about your business. Much like him we also take the friday nights out and work our asses during the week+sat+sun. If you are really passionate about going into the industry, this year must be your year off from life outside. Not that you shouldn`t eat, exercise, or breathe during that year, you should, but the fact is that it`s that one defining year where you have everything you need available to you to get your education one step further.
Some make the mistake of thinking VFS has a magic talent pill or that the school itself makes you a killer artist. It`s not what VFS is all about. It won`t magically make you good. It won`t. They do prepare you, they have the instructors and the knowledge but the thing is, in the end, it`s YOU who will become a product of your own dedication. What they contribute to that end is with resources. You will have all you need to take that next step. And by all you need I mean ALL YOU NEED. You have book resources, dvds, computing power to render your stuff, art supplies cheaper than most places (that is if you use up all your credits, in which case you need to buy more points to get more stuff), you can even rent wacom tablets and cameras for your reference needs. But one thing that is probably the most invaluable is the social aspect of it. I`m not just talking about the connection from people inside the industry i`m talking about your classmates and people from other classes. Not only do they contribute to the learning experience (you can always find people working on their things there at ALL times) but a lot of the stuff you learn from the school comes from your peers. That`s part of the reason why it`s so important to establish a friendly networking atmosphere with your class. They`ll be one of the most powerful tools for your learning experience. These are the reasons (unless I forgot something) why it`s safe to say that this is a great school. But in the end, it`s not what VFS can do for you but what you can do for yourself with the help of VFS and the resources + networking that it gives you.
We, at class 3d76, are 30 right now. It`s a lot of people but as many as they will take per term.
The classes I`ve had so far have mostly followed the following pattern:
Lecture with demonstration. Practice time (in which the teacher and his technical assistant walk around the room helping those who need. Which would be your one on one time). Break time for 10 minutes. Teacher hands out assignment. Small lecture on how to do it, time to work on it with teacher`s supervision.
Many in my class also spend 12-15 hours in or studying by themselves, even though the classes take normally 7 hours or sometimes 10.
I pay 710 CA for rent but that`s because I share it with 2 roommates. Allegedly this city is very expensive in terms of housing. Food is ok though, I don`t really have a comparison with other cities but I spend around 200 a week with food, supplies, laundry, etc. Some might spend less. Probably a lot of people though..
Vancouver is great. Coming from Rio de Janeiro I don`t get the fuss about the homeless. Granted there are many but they mostly stick to themselves and I`ve never been robbed at gunpoint (which happens in rio) so I feel a little more safe =)
It rains a LOT though. So be prepared. They actually give you an umbrella on your first day at school so you should take the hint and not forget it at home like I always do heh..
Hmm it seems like 3d people take less time off than other people so I wouldn`t know what to answer there.. my roommate`s in acting and they have the week off now. We only have one day, but in all honesty I seriously don`t need any more breaks. Being there is just FUN because of both what we are studying and because the class itself.. so again, make friends =) That was an awesome advice from someone that I hadn`t realized how important it was until we actually started having classes.
Anyway, if you have any more questions that I can anwer, shoot =)
..... man... i still think you're making a mistake
lindstr0m
12-16-2008, 03:53 AM
Hey lindstrom
You do have to show some life drawing, gestures, hands, heads, structures, just to show that your familiar with art fundamentals. I got in for the May intake, you can take a look at my blog for the examples i showed to the admission boards. blam90.blogspot.com
For jobs, I have 2 friends who are international students and got jobs right after college, in Toronto as long as you have a strong reel then the companies will sponser you. I hope that helps. Hey blam, how did you send over your portfolio? Just gave them your blog link to your works there or in attachments of zip files with jpgs of your work? I cant view your blog now since its blocked here at work. Will check at home. And the 2 international students, did they have any prior working experience before that or they were completely fresh in the market? I read that canada requires you to have at least 2 years of experience (http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/special-tech.asp) in the Information worker category (If I want to work in VFX, does archviz experience count?)
You do have to show some life drawing, gestures, hands, heads, structures, just to show that your familiar with art fundamentals. I got in for the May intake, you can take a look at my blog for the examples i showed to the admission boards. blam90.blogspot.com
For jobs, I have 2 friends who are international students and got jobs right after college, in Toronto as long as you have a strong reel then the companies will sponser you. I hope that helps. Hey blam, how did you send over your portfolio? Just gave them your blog link to your works there or in attachments of zip files with jpgs of your work? I cant view your blog now since its blocked here at work. Will check at home. And the 2 international students, did they have any prior working experience before that or they were completely fresh in the market? I read that canada requires you to have at least 2 years of experience (http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/special-tech.asp) in the Information worker category (If I want to work in VFX, does archviz experience count?)
blam90
12-16-2008, 04:45 AM
Regarding the vfs entry submissions i sent over attachments in the form of jpg's, my blog, and my demo on the vimeo site. They'll send you back the standard forms to fill out, and a payment plan. You also have to write up a financial plan on how your going to be paying for living expenses if i remember correctly.
One of my friends did have some graphic/animation experince which made his reel stand out however my other buddy did not have any prior experince and currently does vfx work for a small company in Toronto.
if you have msn, just add me blam90@hotmail.com
One of my friends did have some graphic/animation experince which made his reel stand out however my other buddy did not have any prior experince and currently does vfx work for a small company in Toronto.
if you have msn, just add me blam90@hotmail.com
lindstr0m
12-16-2008, 04:55 AM
you have to submit a portfolio, there's no question about that. And of that, I'm 99% sure drawing must be part of it. You can also include other pieces, even web designs or ad campaigns. Judging by some of the drawing I've seen, they don't really hold it in too high regard for entry. Before I went to VFS the admissions people kind of ranted about what high standards they have for portfolio pieces, but that's just not true from my own observations. In other words, if you send them a portfolio and prove that you have the money (or at least the loan) to get into the school- they will let you in. Whether or not you'll have a hard time once you're here is another story.
If you can't draw you will probably have a hard time with modeling. 3D animation is probably less dependant on drawing- even though life drawing will establish gesture that is crucial for animation. Also, the classical animation assignments aren't very 'art' heavy. The instructor is pretty upfront with his expectations, and as long as you complete the assignment's goals, you can draw stick figures for all he cares.
Hopefully that answers your question about how much 'drawing' you'll actually be doing. Regarding sculpture- there is a sculpture in term one but I found it to be a joke for the most part. It's basically a 'this is clay, get your hands dirty' class. There's no real grading criteria for the final product of the class, so what you do is completely arbitrary. Later on if you choose the modeling stream though there are advanced sculpture classes that are more in-depth.
Yes I admit I am not so of an arts student...I really cant draw properly though I used to draw when I was young (well who didnt? haha), so I hope to improve and learn to build a foundation on that. I was always more of a science/maths guy so I am thinking of majoring in VFX stream. It seems to me that VFS is more of a practical school where you have done your com sci/fine arts degree and want to have a fast-track practical approach to 3D and get into the industry. Should a person whos been doing 3D some time but lack in 2D foundations like sculpture/drawing/photography etc do a course something like VFS? I was thinking of going to SCAD VFX degree instead which has a pretty nice curriculum and faculty but its a looooong 4 year degree course.
If you can't draw you will probably have a hard time with modeling. 3D animation is probably less dependant on drawing- even though life drawing will establish gesture that is crucial for animation. Also, the classical animation assignments aren't very 'art' heavy. The instructor is pretty upfront with his expectations, and as long as you complete the assignment's goals, you can draw stick figures for all he cares.
Hopefully that answers your question about how much 'drawing' you'll actually be doing. Regarding sculpture- there is a sculpture in term one but I found it to be a joke for the most part. It's basically a 'this is clay, get your hands dirty' class. There's no real grading criteria for the final product of the class, so what you do is completely arbitrary. Later on if you choose the modeling stream though there are advanced sculpture classes that are more in-depth.
Yes I admit I am not so of an arts student...I really cant draw properly though I used to draw when I was young (well who didnt? haha), so I hope to improve and learn to build a foundation on that. I was always more of a science/maths guy so I am thinking of majoring in VFX stream. It seems to me that VFS is more of a practical school where you have done your com sci/fine arts degree and want to have a fast-track practical approach to 3D and get into the industry. Should a person whos been doing 3D some time but lack in 2D foundations like sculpture/drawing/photography etc do a course something like VFS? I was thinking of going to SCAD VFX degree instead which has a pretty nice curriculum and faculty but its a looooong 4 year degree course.
lindstr0m
12-16-2008, 04:59 AM
Regarding the vfs entry submissions i sent over attachments in the form of jpg's, my blog, and my demo on the vimeo site. They'll send you back the standard forms to fill out, and a payment plan. You also have to write up a financial plan on how your going to be paying for living expenses if i remember correctly.
One of my friends did have some graphic/animation experince which made his reel stand out however my other buddy did not have any prior experince and currently does vfx work for a small company in Toronto.
if you have msn, just add me blam90@hotmail.com (http://forums.cgsociety.org/blam90@hotmail.com)
Thats cool... I will add you later in the night...it will be great to have more CG friends.
One of my friends did have some graphic/animation experince which made his reel stand out however my other buddy did not have any prior experince and currently does vfx work for a small company in Toronto.
if you have msn, just add me blam90@hotmail.com (http://forums.cgsociety.org/blam90@hotmail.com)
Thats cool... I will add you later in the night...it will be great to have more CG friends.
eldee
12-16-2008, 09:39 AM
Should a person whos been doing 3D some time but lack in 2D foundations like sculpture/drawing/photography etc do a course something like VFS? I was thinking of going to SCAD VFX degree instead which has a pretty nice curriculum and faculty but its a looooong 4 year degree course.
I'd say yes, it's not a requirement even though it will help you in the end. I'd say in this field, unless you're planning on being a technical director, having foundation art skill is extremely important. Even in VFX you'll find yourself making the occasional model, or at the very least needing some traditional skills to make a composition work correctly.
At any rate, even without any drawing skills going in, you'll leave VFS with some decent drawing skills. Just make sure you don't make the common mistake of skipping life drawing sessions, in fact go to all of the bonus sessions that happen every other weekend.
You'd have classes in composition, character design, storyboarding, and life drawing. That's pretty much where the 'classical' art ends at VFS, unless you get crazy with your classical animation projects. Without background in anatomy and whatnot, you'll feel the pressure in modeling classes for sure though.. It's hard enough for novices to move points around into acceptable shapes- but without the fundamental knowledge of anatomy (gained through practice and drawing) it makes it all the harder.
I'd say yes, it's not a requirement even though it will help you in the end. I'd say in this field, unless you're planning on being a technical director, having foundation art skill is extremely important. Even in VFX you'll find yourself making the occasional model, or at the very least needing some traditional skills to make a composition work correctly.
At any rate, even without any drawing skills going in, you'll leave VFS with some decent drawing skills. Just make sure you don't make the common mistake of skipping life drawing sessions, in fact go to all of the bonus sessions that happen every other weekend.
You'd have classes in composition, character design, storyboarding, and life drawing. That's pretty much where the 'classical' art ends at VFS, unless you get crazy with your classical animation projects. Without background in anatomy and whatnot, you'll feel the pressure in modeling classes for sure though.. It's hard enough for novices to move points around into acceptable shapes- but without the fundamental knowledge of anatomy (gained through practice and drawing) it makes it all the harder.
Towley
12-16-2008, 11:42 AM
I just sent them a link to my website and they checked it out from there. My portfolio contained only 3D stills, no animation or sketches.
I'm not particulary strong on the freehand drawing side but I have done technical drawings such as architectural plans etc and they said this would be a help. I've just got 2 practise my freehand drawing before my time there starts!
I'm not particulary strong on the freehand drawing side but I have done technical drawings such as architectural plans etc and they said this would be a help. I've just got 2 practise my freehand drawing before my time there starts!
islepaal
12-21-2008, 06:23 AM
wow , what a great thread ~:beer:
BRostad
01-01-2009, 11:27 PM
Coming from a Bachelor degree in Digital Media Production (a jack-of-all-trades education) I'm wondering what do do from fall 09. I'm currently standing between a new 4-year education at Academy of Art in SF or a year at VFS. I have some experience in 3D, but by no means a proffesional.
The thought on my mind right now is: Why do another 4 years ($100k) if just 1 year might be enough to get a decent job in the CG industry?
Any suggestions or pointers please?
The thought on my mind right now is: Why do another 4 years ($100k) if just 1 year might be enough to get a decent job in the CG industry?
Any suggestions or pointers please?
googboog8
01-02-2009, 12:04 AM
studying at VFS wont necessarily get you a job in the industry (that depends entirely on you)... the only thing you will get for sure is exposure and a chance to do some networking
ShadowM8
01-02-2009, 08:09 AM
They are both good schools. Since you already have a bachelor degree the question in my mind would be whether you feel confident as an artist and would be comfortable with fast paced education centered on production training. Or whether you need another 4 years to refine your artistic skill set at a more reasonable pace. The other question is of course the difference in tuition costs!
Pixanaut
01-02-2009, 08:55 AM
VFS all the way. If you have the privilege to attend, don't even think twice. You're primarily just learning to use the software. Why spend 4 years doing that?
Be prepared to do NOTHING but 3d for a full year. No working (at a job), limit the social life, commit to it 100% and you won't regret.
I have a couple friends in the film course there and they're loving it. One is a local guy, the other is a Mexican and both are learning TONS.
There's a reason that reels coming out of VFS look so good. The education is great, I have never heard any real complaints on the profs there. Post grad support seems to be there if you want it. The most important thing with any school of this type is the profs, and these ones are working IN the industry. They teach a term in between contracts, sometimes they'll go off and do small contracts even while they are teaching. To me that says CREDIBILITY. If a prof is there by choice, it means he wants to teach... it also means he's good enough to be working... both awesome traits for a real teacher.
Be prepared to do NOTHING but 3d for a full year. No working (at a job), limit the social life, commit to it 100% and you won't regret.
I have a couple friends in the film course there and they're loving it. One is a local guy, the other is a Mexican and both are learning TONS.
There's a reason that reels coming out of VFS look so good. The education is great, I have never heard any real complaints on the profs there. Post grad support seems to be there if you want it. The most important thing with any school of this type is the profs, and these ones are working IN the industry. They teach a term in between contracts, sometimes they'll go off and do small contracts even while they are teaching. To me that says CREDIBILITY. If a prof is there by choice, it means he wants to teach... it also means he's good enough to be working... both awesome traits for a real teacher.
googboog8
01-02-2009, 09:00 AM
you only see the good reels from vfs... there are about 3-5 good reels out of every 30 students(every batch), the rest of them are... for lack of a better word.. crap.
i'm not saying you shouldn't join, it's still better than a bunch of schools out there... just know what to expect when you get in, dont expect to enter an absolute beginner and graduate with the skills to get you a job in pixar.
i am doing the 3d course in vfs.. it has more positives than negatives and i have no regrets on joining because i kinda knew what to expect beforehand. but there are others in my class who have been disillusioned by the course...
i'm not saying you shouldn't join, it's still better than a bunch of schools out there... just know what to expect when you get in, dont expect to enter an absolute beginner and graduate with the skills to get you a job in pixar.
i am doing the 3d course in vfs.. it has more positives than negatives and i have no regrets on joining because i kinda knew what to expect beforehand. but there are others in my class who have been disillusioned by the course...
eldee
01-03-2009, 07:57 PM
you only see the good reels from vfs... there are about 3-5 good reels out of every 30 students(every batch), the rest of them are... for lack of a better word.. crap.
i'm not saying you shouldn't join, it's still better than a bunch of schools out there... just know what to expect when you get in, dont expect to enter an absolute beginner and graduate with the skills to get you a job in pixar.
i am doing the 3d course in vfs.. it has more positives than negatives and i have no regrets on joining because i kinda knew what to expect beforehand. but there are others in my class who have been disillusioned by the course...
quoted for utter truth. the quality of your work ultimately depends 100% on you. This includes networking, because you learn from others (possibly as much or more than the instructors).
another thing to consider is- are you already capable of putting together a good reel? having attended a bachelor program you may already have the skills to move forward.
There's a reason that reels coming out of VFS look so good. The education is great, I have never heard any real complaints on the profs there. Post grad support seems to be there if you want it. The most important thing with any school of this type is the profs, and these ones are working IN the industry. They teach a term in between contracts, sometimes they'll go off and do small contracts even while they are teaching. To me that says CREDIBILITY. If a prof is there by choice, it means he wants to teach... it also means he's good enough to be working... both awesome traits for a real teacher.
Just to clarify here- because the VFS marketing spin can actually blur the area between fact and fiction:
- the reason that reels coming out of VFS look so good has little to do with the instructors and more to do with other students (and to that extent, the stream mentors). two words: ant farm.
- there are no professors in the 3D program (at least none that I have met), they are instructors. Semantics sure, but there's a difference :)
- The instruction you get from the teachers is infinitesimal compared to what you should be doing on your own and with other students. This is a major point because it ultimately separates the good reels from the utter crap reels. You only get 'core' instruction for the first three terms, and that essentially embodies 3D animation, 3D modeling, lighting/texturing, and a few others. The instruction for these courses is pretty basic.. Box modeling, keyframing a walk cycle, 3 point lighting, etc. There are some instructors who will go outside the curriculum to teach some of the more advanced concepts like linear gamma and whatnot, but it's the exception and not the rule. There's not really much that's taught at VFS that couldn't be learned with a book and some time on the internet. No secret techniques or anything like that :P
- I heard the bit about instructors working 'in' the industry before I went to VFS, and it's mostly marketing spin by the advisors :) That's not to say the instructors aren't good!! Most of them are great, but also long term employees of VFS. I only met two instructors who actually worked in the industry and they were both part time teachers for relatively minor courses.
I'm not discouraging anybody from getting excited about VFS, it's a fantastic school- but there are some urban legends that need to be dispelled :)
i'm not saying you shouldn't join, it's still better than a bunch of schools out there... just know what to expect when you get in, dont expect to enter an absolute beginner and graduate with the skills to get you a job in pixar.
i am doing the 3d course in vfs.. it has more positives than negatives and i have no regrets on joining because i kinda knew what to expect beforehand. but there are others in my class who have been disillusioned by the course...
quoted for utter truth. the quality of your work ultimately depends 100% on you. This includes networking, because you learn from others (possibly as much or more than the instructors).
another thing to consider is- are you already capable of putting together a good reel? having attended a bachelor program you may already have the skills to move forward.
There's a reason that reels coming out of VFS look so good. The education is great, I have never heard any real complaints on the profs there. Post grad support seems to be there if you want it. The most important thing with any school of this type is the profs, and these ones are working IN the industry. They teach a term in between contracts, sometimes they'll go off and do small contracts even while they are teaching. To me that says CREDIBILITY. If a prof is there by choice, it means he wants to teach... it also means he's good enough to be working... both awesome traits for a real teacher.
Just to clarify here- because the VFS marketing spin can actually blur the area between fact and fiction:
- the reason that reels coming out of VFS look so good has little to do with the instructors and more to do with other students (and to that extent, the stream mentors). two words: ant farm.
- there are no professors in the 3D program (at least none that I have met), they are instructors. Semantics sure, but there's a difference :)
- The instruction you get from the teachers is infinitesimal compared to what you should be doing on your own and with other students. This is a major point because it ultimately separates the good reels from the utter crap reels. You only get 'core' instruction for the first three terms, and that essentially embodies 3D animation, 3D modeling, lighting/texturing, and a few others. The instruction for these courses is pretty basic.. Box modeling, keyframing a walk cycle, 3 point lighting, etc. There are some instructors who will go outside the curriculum to teach some of the more advanced concepts like linear gamma and whatnot, but it's the exception and not the rule. There's not really much that's taught at VFS that couldn't be learned with a book and some time on the internet. No secret techniques or anything like that :P
- I heard the bit about instructors working 'in' the industry before I went to VFS, and it's mostly marketing spin by the advisors :) That's not to say the instructors aren't good!! Most of them are great, but also long term employees of VFS. I only met two instructors who actually worked in the industry and they were both part time teachers for relatively minor courses.
I'm not discouraging anybody from getting excited about VFS, it's a fantastic school- but there are some urban legends that need to be dispelled :)
Pixanaut
01-05-2009, 05:17 AM
... There's not really much that's taught at VFS that couldn't be learned with a book and some time on the internet. No secret techniques or anything like that :P
- I heard the bit about instructors working 'in' the industry before I went to VFS, and it's mostly marketing spin by the advisors :) That's not to say the instructors aren't good!! Most of them are great, but also long term employees of VFS. I only met two instructors who actually worked in the industry and they were both part time teachers for relatively minor courses.
I'm not discouraging anybody from getting excited about VFS, it's a fantastic school- but there are some urban legends that need to be dispelled :)
As with any school, most of it can be learned from a book on your own. The benefit to a school environment is the time off to 100% focus, with like-minded and hopefully 'as driven' people as you. It's also a chance to make some connections... you never know who in that class may end up in a position to recommend, or even, hire you at some later date.
As far as the 'instructors' being employed, I think I should clarify that that information was told to me regarding the Film course by a student. I assumed it would run through all departments. I stand corrected.:D
- I heard the bit about instructors working 'in' the industry before I went to VFS, and it's mostly marketing spin by the advisors :) That's not to say the instructors aren't good!! Most of them are great, but also long term employees of VFS. I only met two instructors who actually worked in the industry and they were both part time teachers for relatively minor courses.
I'm not discouraging anybody from getting excited about VFS, it's a fantastic school- but there are some urban legends that need to be dispelled :)
As with any school, most of it can be learned from a book on your own. The benefit to a school environment is the time off to 100% focus, with like-minded and hopefully 'as driven' people as you. It's also a chance to make some connections... you never know who in that class may end up in a position to recommend, or even, hire you at some later date.
As far as the 'instructors' being employed, I think I should clarify that that information was told to me regarding the Film course by a student. I assumed it would run through all departments. I stand corrected.:D
Kskovbo
01-05-2009, 12:22 PM
Did any of you international students have any problem getting your visa/study permit? I have got accepted for may 09. But I still need my visa though..
Klaus
Klaus
eldee
01-06-2009, 10:39 PM
Did any of you international students have any problem getting your visa/study permit? I have got accepted for may 09. But I still need my visa though..
Klaus
As long as you can show evidence that you have the money to support yourself in canada (via student loan, bank statements, etc) the canadian government is generally pretty quick about giving out study visas.
Klaus
As long as you can show evidence that you have the money to support yourself in canada (via student loan, bank statements, etc) the canadian government is generally pretty quick about giving out study visas.
Intervain
01-06-2009, 11:49 PM
quite - if you've paid for the school and have enough to live on for a year without the need to work you'll get the visa no probs...[took me 2 hours]
Kskovbo
01-07-2009, 10:08 AM
Good to hear. But what do you mean it only took you two hours?
If I understand it correctly you have to send a bunch of papers to the nearest visa office, then they proccess it (which take 6 weeks in my case, as I have the london department) and then you get a result?
If I understand it correctly you have to send a bunch of papers to the nearest visa office, then they proccess it (which take 6 weeks in my case, as I have the london department) and then you get a result?
Intervain
01-07-2009, 10:25 AM
I just went to a Consulate nearby [I was in the US at the time, visiting, so just chose one - no appointments were necessary and no waiting].
Reakon
01-07-2009, 05:23 PM
Well, I mailed them for some info, BUT STUPID ME left my phone number..
Just 2min ago the 2nd time they did call. after the 1st time I said to don't do it anymore but well.. this was the 2nd and it's because they're not listening it ór it's just an fault of them.
Well, I want to study outside The Netherlands, and may in Canada. But well I've to look really good for an good school I think, because it looks like they're just to friendly to get you money
Just 2min ago the 2nd time they did call. after the 1st time I said to don't do it anymore but well.. this was the 2nd and it's because they're not listening it ór it's just an fault of them.
Well, I want to study outside The Netherlands, and may in Canada. But well I've to look really good for an good school I think, because it looks like they're just to friendly to get you money
shrew81
01-07-2009, 09:26 PM
I know a bit off topic, but how does Westwood college stack up against the likes of vfs? This is my fourth semester at Westwood Atlanta and it just seems... not up to speed,:hmm: at least how people are making vfs sound. Im learning alot, but only because of cg society and self will, Anyone know if the pace will pick up or is a transfer to vfs is in order?
eldee
01-08-2009, 06:38 AM
last I checked (http://www.prlog.org/10038346-vfs-named-top-animation-school-in-canada-by-3d-world-reaches-new-heights-on-youtube.html) VFS was the #1 school in canada for animation, and the #5 school in the world. Not sure about modeling or VFX, but the quality that comes out of all three streams is always going to be a mixed bag. Westwood doesn't appear in the top 20, so I don't really know how it stacks up against VFS. However, Savannah is #13 on the list and from what I remember from my time of shopping around, it was a pretty decent art school (and much more affordable than VFS).
PS: those rankings are done based on shortlisted film festival entries, so it's a pretty good indicator of who's who in the animation world.
If you don't feel like reading the article, here are the top 5:
1 Supinfocom, Valenciennes/Arles (France)
2 Filmakademie Baden-Wuertemmberg, Stuttgart (Germany)
3 Gobelins, L’école de l’image Paris/Noisy (France)
4 Ringling College of Art and Design Sarasota, FL (USA)
5 Vancouver Film School Vancouver (Canada)
PS: those rankings are done based on shortlisted film festival entries, so it's a pretty good indicator of who's who in the animation world.
If you don't feel like reading the article, here are the top 5:
1 Supinfocom, Valenciennes/Arles (France)
2 Filmakademie Baden-Wuertemmberg, Stuttgart (Germany)
3 Gobelins, L’école de l’image Paris/Noisy (France)
4 Ringling College of Art and Design Sarasota, FL (USA)
5 Vancouver Film School Vancouver (Canada)
chindian
01-08-2009, 02:53 PM
VFS is great... but as with any school - your education is what you make of it! I had a great experience there... The city is awesome... the teachers and instructors are very helpful - so don't be afraid to ask... the worst thing you can do is go there and not ask questions...
ALso - one of the biggest assets there is the students... ppl from around the globe come to there - so u'll get a chance to meet some awesome collegues... so make friends...
They may as well be the best knowledge base too - as some come with 3D experience already.... so learn from each other.
The bad stuff - Vancouver weather is horrible for the winter... Myself - being from the caribbean - I found it highly depressing weather... haha. But that's a matter of opinion I think. Also - you will find that not everyone's opinion or suggestions are best to listen to... filter the comments and critiques...
Not enough life drawing - now - the life drawing teacher i had was awesome! The guy was a genious and I loved his style... however we only had life drawing for our first few terms... I wish it was something that would run over the whole course of VFS... but u can sit in on the open model sessions... but coming down to the end - it's hard to find time for that.
Another con is that it's only a year... so ppl who are brand new to 3D may find it tough to learn all the required info and techniques in addition to produce a top notch demo... so if u have prior experience - it helps.
But for the ppl who do go in there with nothing and still produce a kick @$$ reel - more power to u!
VFS definitely teaches you how to work well under pressure, critism and deadlines...
Bottom line: I'd recommend it... but prepare for a tough year!!! But if u make the best of it - it's well worth it!
ALso - one of the biggest assets there is the students... ppl from around the globe come to there - so u'll get a chance to meet some awesome collegues... so make friends...
They may as well be the best knowledge base too - as some come with 3D experience already.... so learn from each other.
The bad stuff - Vancouver weather is horrible for the winter... Myself - being from the caribbean - I found it highly depressing weather... haha. But that's a matter of opinion I think. Also - you will find that not everyone's opinion or suggestions are best to listen to... filter the comments and critiques...
Not enough life drawing - now - the life drawing teacher i had was awesome! The guy was a genious and I loved his style... however we only had life drawing for our first few terms... I wish it was something that would run over the whole course of VFS... but u can sit in on the open model sessions... but coming down to the end - it's hard to find time for that.
Another con is that it's only a year... so ppl who are brand new to 3D may find it tough to learn all the required info and techniques in addition to produce a top notch demo... so if u have prior experience - it helps.
But for the ppl who do go in there with nothing and still produce a kick @$$ reel - more power to u!
VFS definitely teaches you how to work well under pressure, critism and deadlines...
Bottom line: I'd recommend it... but prepare for a tough year!!! But if u make the best of it - it's well worth it!
ArticSpider
01-08-2009, 06:54 PM
How is vfs staff and faculty? Do they have anyone you know who worked in the business and can help you land that job? How has students experience better here than at other schools any one know? It sounds great that it's a short amount of time to graduate. Do they offer a degree or is it just certificate? I'm looking to be in the 3d major.
Intervain
01-08-2009, 08:08 PM
CGSme, I don't mean to sound rude but it's not hard and that time consuming to find the answers to all your questions in both this thread and on the vfs.com website. I just don't see the point of repeating things that have already been said.
As for someone helping you land a job - well in the end you can help yourself, by working hard and preparing a decent demo reel - nothing more to it...
As for someone helping you land a job - well in the end you can help yourself, by working hard and preparing a decent demo reel - nothing more to it...
ArticSpider
01-09-2009, 12:03 AM
I did go through the thread, but the posts are dated back to 2003. I am looking for updated students who attended and what their opinions are. There is nothing wrong with asking for advice about different schools before a clunk down a large amount of money for it. So before being rude use your head. A lot has changes, tuition, methods of teaching....or perhaps you have been out of the loop with education and standards of the industry.
tuddel
01-09-2009, 12:35 AM
I did go through the thread, but the posts are dated back to 2003. I am looking for updated students who attended and what their opinions are. There is nothing wrong with asking for advice about different schools before a clunk down a large amount of money for it. So before being rude use your head. A lot has changes, tuition, methods of teaching....or perhaps you have been out of the loop with education and standards of the industry.
wow your rude.intervain wasnt rude at all.also on industry standards.just look at her portfolio.she is :buttrock:
wow your rude.intervain wasnt rude at all.also on industry standards.just look at her portfolio.she is :buttrock:
Intervain
01-09-2009, 01:05 AM
So before being rude use your head. A lot has changes, tuition, methods of teaching....or perhaps you have been out of the loop with education and standards of the industry.
cheers - must have lost my head somewhere on my desk :rolleyes:
cheers - must have lost my head somewhere on my desk :rolleyes:
Rebeccak
01-09-2009, 02:22 AM
A lot has changes, tuition, methods of teaching....or perhaps you have been out of the loop with education and standards of the industry.Sorry to jump in here, but I just thought I would point out that Intervain was trying to help you, and she is speaking from experience. When she said:
As for someone helping you land a job - well in the end you can help yourself, by working hard and preparing a decent demo reel - nothing more to it......she meant it. Look up her threads around the 'net, and you'll see someone who works very hard on her own projects whilst being employed at a major company. And, since she's an alum of the school you're interested in, you ought to respect her advice.
I'm just pointing out that you should be civil, to someone who could potentially be of great help to you, down the road. :)
Also, a great way to search a forum or any site is via Google. For example, if you wanted to search the entire CGTalk forum for info. on VFS, go to Google and type:
site:cgsociety.org + VFS (or other search term, put in quotes if you like).
You may also wish to check out this forum (http://www.conceptart.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=15).
-R
As for someone helping you land a job - well in the end you can help yourself, by working hard and preparing a decent demo reel - nothing more to it......she meant it. Look up her threads around the 'net, and you'll see someone who works very hard on her own projects whilst being employed at a major company. And, since she's an alum of the school you're interested in, you ought to respect her advice.
I'm just pointing out that you should be civil, to someone who could potentially be of great help to you, down the road. :)
Also, a great way to search a forum or any site is via Google. For example, if you wanted to search the entire CGTalk forum for info. on VFS, go to Google and type:
site:cgsociety.org + VFS (or other search term, put in quotes if you like).
You may also wish to check out this forum (http://www.conceptart.org/forums/forumdisplay.php?f=15).
-R
Rebeccak
01-09-2009, 02:42 AM
On a different topic, one thing I think that any student wishing to attend a private school these days MUST consider is the type of loan that he or she takes out.
Be sure that you are not taking out PRIVATE vs. Federal loans. See this NYTimes article, and look it up around the web:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/10/us/10loans.html
Unlike federal loans, whose interest rates are capped by law — now at 6.8 percent — these loans carry variable rates that can reach 20 percent, like credit cards. Mr. Cuomo and Congress are now investigating how lenders set those rates.
And while federal loans come with safeguards against students’ overextending themselves, private loans have no such limits. Students are piling up debts as high as $100,000. There was a more recent article about private loans and predatory lending, but I can't recall if it was on the Washington Post or the NYTimes.
Anyway, the point is that if you are taking out a Private loan, eg, from Sallie Mae etc., then you are basically racking up the equivalent of credit card debt. Unlike Federal loans, private lenders have high interest rates that are not fixed, in the neighborhood of 18%, which is like what a credit card company might charge.
I read recently that in a lot of cases, students take out Federal loans but they don't completely cover education costs, so students unwittingly take out private loans to cover the difference, not realizing what this will mean for them down the line.
Please be very careful in selecting your loan package. I know Sallie Mae has a rather shoddy history, and I would definitely consider them to be a predatory lender.
-R
Be sure that you are not taking out PRIVATE vs. Federal loans. See this NYTimes article, and look it up around the web:
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/06/10/us/10loans.html
Unlike federal loans, whose interest rates are capped by law — now at 6.8 percent — these loans carry variable rates that can reach 20 percent, like credit cards. Mr. Cuomo and Congress are now investigating how lenders set those rates.
And while federal loans come with safeguards against students’ overextending themselves, private loans have no such limits. Students are piling up debts as high as $100,000. There was a more recent article about private loans and predatory lending, but I can't recall if it was on the Washington Post or the NYTimes.
Anyway, the point is that if you are taking out a Private loan, eg, from Sallie Mae etc., then you are basically racking up the equivalent of credit card debt. Unlike Federal loans, private lenders have high interest rates that are not fixed, in the neighborhood of 18%, which is like what a credit card company might charge.
I read recently that in a lot of cases, students take out Federal loans but they don't completely cover education costs, so students unwittingly take out private loans to cover the difference, not realizing what this will mean for them down the line.
Please be very careful in selecting your loan package. I know Sallie Mae has a rather shoddy history, and I would definitely consider them to be a predatory lender.
-R
ShadowM8
01-09-2009, 08:50 AM
How is vfs staff and faculty? Do they have anyone you know who worked in the business and can help you land that job? How has students experience better here than at other schools any one know? It sounds great that it's a short amount of time to graduate. Do they offer a degree or is it just certificate? I'm looking to be in the 3d major.
I did go through the thread, but the posts are dated back to 2003. I am looking for updated students who attended and what their opinions are. There is nothing wrong with asking for advice about different schools before a clunk down a large amount of money for it. So before being rude use your head. A lot has changes, tuition, methods of teaching....or perhaps you have been out of the loop with education and standards of the industry.
- You can find out about the staff at VFS on their website that features a short bio and credits history. You can do further research by finding the instructors on LinkedIn to see a more detailed resume.
- You can also see from their website that you graduate with "A Diploma in 3D Animation."
- Just on a previous page you had a very recent graduate describing his experience as well as some details on the current staff.
That pretty much would've answered all your questions. A big part of working in this industry is being able to trouble shoot problems and find answers and solutions without having to rely on others and definitely without snapping and insulting those trying to point you in the right direction, even if all they say is RTFM!
I did go through the thread, but the posts are dated back to 2003. I am looking for updated students who attended and what their opinions are. There is nothing wrong with asking for advice about different schools before a clunk down a large amount of money for it. So before being rude use your head. A lot has changes, tuition, methods of teaching....or perhaps you have been out of the loop with education and standards of the industry.
- You can find out about the staff at VFS on their website that features a short bio and credits history. You can do further research by finding the instructors on LinkedIn to see a more detailed resume.
- You can also see from their website that you graduate with "A Diploma in 3D Animation."
- Just on a previous page you had a very recent graduate describing his experience as well as some details on the current staff.
That pretty much would've answered all your questions. A big part of working in this industry is being able to trouble shoot problems and find answers and solutions without having to rely on others and definitely without snapping and insulting those trying to point you in the right direction, even if all they say is RTFM!
googboog8
01-09-2009, 09:01 AM
How is vfs staff and faculty?
pretty good.
Do they have anyone you know who worked in the business and can help you land that job?
they aren't going to help you get 'that' job. you could sit in class for a year with your thumb up your bum and they couldn't care less once you'e paid the course fees
How has students experience better here than at other schools any one know?
i'm not sure what that means.. but i'm going to say that you should be prepared to be depressed, undernourished, overworked and fizzled out in about 4 months
It sounds great that it's a short amount of time to graduate. Do they offer a degree or is it just certificate?
diploma
I'm looking to be in the 3d major.
thats nice
pretty good.
Do they have anyone you know who worked in the business and can help you land that job?
they aren't going to help you get 'that' job. you could sit in class for a year with your thumb up your bum and they couldn't care less once you'e paid the course fees
How has students experience better here than at other schools any one know?
i'm not sure what that means.. but i'm going to say that you should be prepared to be depressed, undernourished, overworked and fizzled out in about 4 months
It sounds great that it's a short amount of time to graduate. Do they offer a degree or is it just certificate?
diploma
I'm looking to be in the 3d major.
thats nice
j0j0y
01-09-2009, 11:01 PM
Please be very careful in selecting your loan package. I know Sallie Mae has a rather shoddy history, and I would definitely consider them to be a predatory lender.
-R
Sallie Mae is the only lender that VFS recommends though, nowadays.
(The company they referred to before stopped giving out loans once the stock market started diving, and they're private also, so...)
And since VFS is a private school in Canada, you can't get a federal loan for it. The FAFSA -does- recognize some Canadian schools, but not VFS. So you're pretty much out of luck if you want to get a controlled interest rate.
This all, of course, is if you're coming from the US. I don't know how it is for other countries.
-R
Sallie Mae is the only lender that VFS recommends though, nowadays.
(The company they referred to before stopped giving out loans once the stock market started diving, and they're private also, so...)
And since VFS is a private school in Canada, you can't get a federal loan for it. The FAFSA -does- recognize some Canadian schools, but not VFS. So you're pretty much out of luck if you want to get a controlled interest rate.
This all, of course, is if you're coming from the US. I don't know how it is for other countries.
Stellios
01-10-2009, 01:40 AM
You don't need to spend 24K at a fancy school to get skill. I cant be certain but im pretty sure that all the great reels that came out of VFS had one thing in common, HARD WORK. This is something you can do anywhere, hence the phrase "a good artist can come from anywhere".
The REAL truth about attending art school is in this thread, and you better beleive every word of it.
http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?t=102315
The REAL truth about attending art school is in this thread, and you better beleive every word of it.
http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?t=102315
Stellios
01-10-2009, 01:42 AM
You don't need to spend 24K at a fancy school to get skill. I cant be certain but im pretty sure that all the great reels that came out of VFS had one thing in common, HARD WORK. This is something you can do anywhere, hence the phrase "a good artist can come from anywhere".
The REAL truth about attending art school is in this thread, and you better beleive every word of it.
http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?t=102315
last I checked (http://www.prlog.org/10038346-vfs-named-top-animation-school-in-canada-by-3d-world-reaches-new-heights-on-youtube.html) VFS was the #1 school in canada for animation, and the #5 school in the world. Not sure about modeling or VFX, but the quality that comes out of all three streams is always going to be a mixed bag. Westwood doesn't appear in the top 20, so I don't really know how it stacks up against VFS. However, Savannah is #13 on the list and from what I remember from my time of shopping around, it was a pretty decent art school (and much more affordable than VFS).
PS: those rankings are done based on shortlisted film festival entries, so it's a pretty good indicator of who's who in the animation world.
If you don't feel like reading the article, here are the top 5:
1 Supinfocom, Valenciennes/Arles (France)
2 Filmakademie Baden-Wuertemmberg, Stuttgart (Germany)
3 Gobelins, L’école de l’image Paris/Noisy (France)
4 Ringling College of Art and Design Sarasota, FL (USA)
5 Vancouver Film School Vancouver (Canada)
This can be somewhat misleading, I still beleive that Sheridan College maintains its #1 spot for animation, however its primarily geared for 2D, They do teach 3D, and by the time you learn the software, as long as you put in the work, you will have more than enough artistic ability to land a job in the industry.
The REAL truth about attending art school is in this thread, and you better beleive every word of it.
http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?t=102315
last I checked (http://www.prlog.org/10038346-vfs-named-top-animation-school-in-canada-by-3d-world-reaches-new-heights-on-youtube.html) VFS was the #1 school in canada for animation, and the #5 school in the world. Not sure about modeling or VFX, but the quality that comes out of all three streams is always going to be a mixed bag. Westwood doesn't appear in the top 20, so I don't really know how it stacks up against VFS. However, Savannah is #13 on the list and from what I remember from my time of shopping around, it was a pretty decent art school (and much more affordable than VFS).
PS: those rankings are done based on shortlisted film festival entries, so it's a pretty good indicator of who's who in the animation world.
If you don't feel like reading the article, here are the top 5:
1 Supinfocom, Valenciennes/Arles (France)
2 Filmakademie Baden-Wuertemmberg, Stuttgart (Germany)
3 Gobelins, L’école de l’image Paris/Noisy (France)
4 Ringling College of Art and Design Sarasota, FL (USA)
5 Vancouver Film School Vancouver (Canada)
This can be somewhat misleading, I still beleive that Sheridan College maintains its #1 spot for animation, however its primarily geared for 2D, They do teach 3D, and by the time you learn the software, as long as you put in the work, you will have more than enough artistic ability to land a job in the industry.
Intervain
01-10-2009, 03:26 AM
You don't need to spend 24K at a fancy school to get skill. I cant be certain but im pretty sure that all the great reels that came out of VFS had one thing in common, HARD WORK. This is something you can do anywhere, hence the phrase "a good artist can come from anywhere".
The REAL truth about attending art school is in this thread, and you better beleive every word of it.
http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?t=102315
that is certainly true - but there are other factors one must consider. Age and time for instance. Many of my classmates were people with experiences in other professions and usually not right after high school. I myself just couldn't afford years of walking in the dark and I wanted to learn 3d badly. I knew NOTHING whatsoever about it when I entered VFS. The 1 year, intensive course - away from home and distractions - was definitely the best choice.
The REAL truth about attending art school is in this thread, and you better beleive every word of it.
http://conceptart.org/forums/showthread.php?t=102315
that is certainly true - but there are other factors one must consider. Age and time for instance. Many of my classmates were people with experiences in other professions and usually not right after high school. I myself just couldn't afford years of walking in the dark and I wanted to learn 3d badly. I knew NOTHING whatsoever about it when I entered VFS. The 1 year, intensive course - away from home and distractions - was definitely the best choice.
eldee
01-10-2009, 04:51 AM
Yeah, that's pretty much my story. I worked for various advertising agencies doing graphic design/programming, and just could'nt find the time in a normal day to really devote to breaking into the industry at large.
I mean, you work for 9 hours a day, sit in traffic for 2, sleep for 8 (if you're lucky) and that gives you 5 hours a day to teach yourself everything you need to know. That's if you're super dedicated and aren't distracted by things like girlfriends, TV or a social life
And regarding that post over at CA.org- it's certainly true. I'm amazed at how many people go to VFS thinking they can just do the assignments and walk away with a job at Pixar or ILM :)
If you just do the assignments at VFS you're essentially going to have a box-modeled human doing a really jerky walk cycle with a questionable rig and even more questionable weighting. You have to be prepared to put in a LOT of your free time.. if you're the type that burns out easilly I would not recommend an immersion program like VFS.
I mean, you work for 9 hours a day, sit in traffic for 2, sleep for 8 (if you're lucky) and that gives you 5 hours a day to teach yourself everything you need to know. That's if you're super dedicated and aren't distracted by things like girlfriends, TV or a social life
And regarding that post over at CA.org- it's certainly true. I'm amazed at how many people go to VFS thinking they can just do the assignments and walk away with a job at Pixar or ILM :)
If you just do the assignments at VFS you're essentially going to have a box-modeled human doing a really jerky walk cycle with a questionable rig and even more questionable weighting. You have to be prepared to put in a LOT of your free time.. if you're the type that burns out easilly I would not recommend an immersion program like VFS.
almagesto
01-16-2009, 02:12 PM
hello guys! what a useful thread!
I gonna start the Visual fx course in May!
im really excited about that!
thanks for all the info you wrote in here, they really help me to better understand more things about vfs
ciao!
E.
I gonna start the Visual fx course in May!
im really excited about that!
thanks for all the info you wrote in here, they really help me to better understand more things about vfs
ciao!
E.
guiligan
01-28-2009, 02:35 PM
Hello...
First, thanks for the topic, it was really helpful! Lots of information and opinions. But I need some info about the VFS Foundation Visual Art & Design. I'm from Brazil and here we don't have any good school (and I take my chances saying that we don't have any school around here with this focus).
Have anyone done this program? Does it worth all the money?
Thanks for helping. Kind Regards,
Guilherme Mori
First, thanks for the topic, it was really helpful! Lots of information and opinions. But I need some info about the VFS Foundation Visual Art & Design. I'm from Brazil and here we don't have any good school (and I take my chances saying that we don't have any school around here with this focus).
Have anyone done this program? Does it worth all the money?
Thanks for helping. Kind Regards,
Guilherme Mori
DagMX
01-29-2009, 05:18 AM
Hello...
First, thanks for the topic, it was really helpful! Lots of information and opinions. But I need some info about the VFS Foundation Visual Art & Design. I'm from Brazil and here we don't have any good school (and I take my chances saying that we don't have any school around here with this focus).
Have anyone done this program? Does it worth all the money?
Thanks for helping. Kind Regards,
Guilherme Mori
I'm in foundation currently(batch 33..the latest is 35)
I'm from India, and I also felt that there werent any realy good 3d based colleges there either which is why I went to VFS.
Now heres the thing about foundation, it's a completely mixed bag.
Honestly, I could have jumped straight into the 3d program and not have lost out on much. That said, I do think it was worth it doing foundation.
I'll list out the cons first before addressing the pros.
The first term is horribly dull for the most part. This is because some people have absoluely no artistic background before coming here. You may find yourself feeling your money's been wasted because of how simple stuff is. Again, I don't feel this way because I feel the classes have their use in teaching you if you didnt have an art background or just to fortify your learning.
It really picks up in 2nd term and I'm in the middle of 3rd term and it's quite interesting and I'm loving it right now. I think just the psychology class is worth it all.
The other problem with foundation is, that arguably, people can be less professional and in some cases(since this is a beginners program), incredibly incompetent of doing things.
I find that this applies through all age groups. People tend to slack off, and prioritize their classes(only paying attention in some classes and skipping everything else). I also have a huge problem with people not seeing the long term benefits of assignments and deeming everything uninteresting as useless. Again thats personal and varies from person to person and class to class.
Lastly, and I feel this is a personal thing again, some people hate having to adhere to assignment rules. Atleast one person in my class has considered dropping out because they would prefer more freedom. I don't really see why because you shouldnt join a school if you only want to do your own thing. Also the assignments exist to emulate an actual job situation with specific guidelines etc...
So those are the only real problems.
NOW FOR THE ADVANTAGES TO FOUNDATION:
Your exposed to more types of people than in other courses. THat is, if you went into 3d you wouldnt really interact with film people etc...
You get such a wide variety of classes that it deffinitely helps in being a generalist and also understanding other parts of making a film or whatever
It covers a lot of things that you'd miss out in other courses such as sound design, art history, editing, maya...
It teaches you more about production values and workflows than other courses.
Hope that helped. Honestly, this is a really nice program if you can stand the first term.
First, thanks for the topic, it was really helpful! Lots of information and opinions. But I need some info about the VFS Foundation Visual Art & Design. I'm from Brazil and here we don't have any good school (and I take my chances saying that we don't have any school around here with this focus).
Have anyone done this program? Does it worth all the money?
Thanks for helping. Kind Regards,
Guilherme Mori
I'm in foundation currently(batch 33..the latest is 35)
I'm from India, and I also felt that there werent any realy good 3d based colleges there either which is why I went to VFS.
Now heres the thing about foundation, it's a completely mixed bag.
Honestly, I could have jumped straight into the 3d program and not have lost out on much. That said, I do think it was worth it doing foundation.
I'll list out the cons first before addressing the pros.
The first term is horribly dull for the most part. This is because some people have absoluely no artistic background before coming here. You may find yourself feeling your money's been wasted because of how simple stuff is. Again, I don't feel this way because I feel the classes have their use in teaching you if you didnt have an art background or just to fortify your learning.
It really picks up in 2nd term and I'm in the middle of 3rd term and it's quite interesting and I'm loving it right now. I think just the psychology class is worth it all.
The other problem with foundation is, that arguably, people can be less professional and in some cases(since this is a beginners program), incredibly incompetent of doing things.
I find that this applies through all age groups. People tend to slack off, and prioritize their classes(only paying attention in some classes and skipping everything else). I also have a huge problem with people not seeing the long term benefits of assignments and deeming everything uninteresting as useless. Again thats personal and varies from person to person and class to class.
Lastly, and I feel this is a personal thing again, some people hate having to adhere to assignment rules. Atleast one person in my class has considered dropping out because they would prefer more freedom. I don't really see why because you shouldnt join a school if you only want to do your own thing. Also the assignments exist to emulate an actual job situation with specific guidelines etc...
So those are the only real problems.
NOW FOR THE ADVANTAGES TO FOUNDATION:
Your exposed to more types of people than in other courses. THat is, if you went into 3d you wouldnt really interact with film people etc...
You get such a wide variety of classes that it deffinitely helps in being a generalist and also understanding other parts of making a film or whatever
It covers a lot of things that you'd miss out in other courses such as sound design, art history, editing, maya...
It teaches you more about production values and workflows than other courses.
Hope that helped. Honestly, this is a really nice program if you can stand the first term.
guiligan
01-29-2009, 01:31 PM
DagMX, it really helped! Thank you!
Kskovbo
02-02-2009, 10:32 AM
I'm starting the 3D Animation & visual effects in may. Will I need to invest in a super laptop or should I wait and use my money on a super desktop when I get home?
Just wanna hear your thoughts. It doesnt really say on the website.. though I could imagine it would be a nice thing to have a nice laptop with me.
K,
Just wanna hear your thoughts. It doesnt really say on the website.. though I could imagine it would be a nice thing to have a nice laptop with me.
K,
Intervain
02-02-2009, 12:12 PM
I'm starting the 3D Animation & visual effects in may. Will I need to invest in a super laptop or should I wait and use my money on a super desktop when I get home?
Just wanna hear your thoughts. It doesnt really say on the website.. though I could imagine it would be a nice thing to have a nice laptop with me.
K,
You won't even need a computer of your own much - at least nothing fancy, as you'll do all the work at school. Some people in my day did work at home sometimes, instead of using the lab, and from my experience it never really came to any good. You'll learn from being in the lab with other students so having a super machine at home will be useless [any old laptop is enough, to check your mail, though that can be done at school as well].
Just wanna hear your thoughts. It doesnt really say on the website.. though I could imagine it would be a nice thing to have a nice laptop with me.
K,
You won't even need a computer of your own much - at least nothing fancy, as you'll do all the work at school. Some people in my day did work at home sometimes, instead of using the lab, and from my experience it never really came to any good. You'll learn from being in the lab with other students so having a super machine at home will be useless [any old laptop is enough, to check your mail, though that can be done at school as well].
JamesMcPhail
02-02-2009, 05:53 PM
You'll learn from being in the lab with other students so having a super machine at home will be useless .
Totally agree. You will get much more out of your time if you work at the lab. Treat school like a job and put in a solid 10 hour day whether you are in class or not (once you get in the ant farm). You will benefit from the envrionment a lot more that way.
From what I have seen lately (i'm a part time instructor there now) a lot of the students have their own laptops in the lab these days on the wireless network. That way they can use the internet properly. Internet access is heavily restricted on the workstations. Though that might be a bonus if you are easily distracted.
Totally agree. You will get much more out of your time if you work at the lab. Treat school like a job and put in a solid 10 hour day whether you are in class or not (once you get in the ant farm). You will benefit from the envrionment a lot more that way.
From what I have seen lately (i'm a part time instructor there now) a lot of the students have their own laptops in the lab these days on the wireless network. That way they can use the internet properly. Internet access is heavily restricted on the workstations. Though that might be a bonus if you are easily distracted.
DagMX
02-02-2009, 06:38 PM
I'm starting the 3D Animation & visual effects in may. Will I need to invest in a super laptop or should I wait and use my money on a super desktop when I get home?
Just wanna hear your thoughts. It doesnt really say on the website.. though I could imagine it would be a nice thing to have a nice laptop with me.
K,
I sort of agree with what the other guys say, but there are a few things I'd like to add:
A laptop sort of helps in a few ways.
One, you can obviously get beter access to the internet without resorting to proxies. Which is kind of nice when the days dragging or you need to view something on youtube or the such(also the list of blocked sites is hilarious, if you ever check the filter).
Two, for the most part(correct me if I'm wrong), but they dont give you dual monitors. It's not really a necessity, but you could just use your laptop as a workstation and dual screen of that.
Three, your not locked to the software the school is using. I believe you can get them to install software if you request them with reasoning, but for example, right now they are still on Adobe CS3 even though they let you buy CS4.
That said, you dont really need a super fancy laptop. Anything with a dual screen option and a decentish graphics card and RAM is enough.
Just wanna hear your thoughts. It doesnt really say on the website.. though I could imagine it would be a nice thing to have a nice laptop with me.
K,
I sort of agree with what the other guys say, but there are a few things I'd like to add:
A laptop sort of helps in a few ways.
One, you can obviously get beter access to the internet without resorting to proxies. Which is kind of nice when the days dragging or you need to view something on youtube or the such(also the list of blocked sites is hilarious, if you ever check the filter).
Two, for the most part(correct me if I'm wrong), but they dont give you dual monitors. It's not really a necessity, but you could just use your laptop as a workstation and dual screen of that.
Three, your not locked to the software the school is using. I believe you can get them to install software if you request them with reasoning, but for example, right now they are still on Adobe CS3 even though they let you buy CS4.
That said, you dont really need a super fancy laptop. Anything with a dual screen option and a decentish graphics card and RAM is enough.
Pixanaut
02-03-2009, 12:22 AM
At the risk of disagreeing here, I found it a major boost to be able to have a really good render machine at home to render over night, in addition to the one at school. It also meant that I could babysit the render by setting the alarm clock for the estimated time of completion on the current render, and fire up the next render if needed.
Often, I would set a render at the school, then bring the master file home and render in reverse on my home machine. Rendering the frames this way allowed me to cut down my render time, and bring them to school the next day and simply add the home renders to the school render folder, and delete any overlapping rendered frames.
This was especially beneficial toward the end of my course. For this reason, I'd consider spending a couple grand on a pair of really good towers rather spending $3000+ on a really good laptop.
JMHO
Just a note, I did NOT go to VFS, so I can't speak to that school specifically.
Often, I would set a render at the school, then bring the master file home and render in reverse on my home machine. Rendering the frames this way allowed me to cut down my render time, and bring them to school the next day and simply add the home renders to the school render folder, and delete any overlapping rendered frames.
This was especially beneficial toward the end of my course. For this reason, I'd consider spending a couple grand on a pair of really good towers rather spending $3000+ on a really good laptop.
JMHO
Just a note, I did NOT go to VFS, so I can't speak to that school specifically.
Intervain
02-03-2009, 01:31 AM
well I had no probs rendering my stuff - plenty of comps available at school, especially if you're organized and don't leave everything till last minute - used my laptop only for the net...
Imhotep397
02-03-2009, 04:18 AM
I have to agree with Pixananut here. I didn't go to VFS and I did have to commute a pretty decent distance for my second degree so there were considerations other than just the basics. There's one thing I do know for certain and it's that most people don't really like to have other people, particularly people that have similar goals that are at different levels of proficiency with tools you are all working with, looking over their shoulders while they're trying to take baby steps with learning CG. I remember for my Masters there was one huge lab that essentially had all of the computers with the users backs and monitors facing the only doorways into the room...I hated that lab.
For me this room created the worst sense of not having "space" to work possible. You could constantly hear people coming into the lab that you couldn't see, the doors were open unless it was a class period so you always heard everyone in the halls and in the lounge area outside the room, you always felt like there was someone behind you that you couldn't see and that they were probably paying more attention to your monitor than their own (which a lot of the times was actually the case.) At first, I thought it was just me being paranoid but consistently I found that until the last minute of the semester, when people NEEDED to render final projects, that lab would stay completely empty except for a number of people you could generally count on one hand. The other smaller labs, once they were actually opened for non-class open lab and had students facing the doors consistently stayed either full or 3/4 full. After talking to some friends they echoed the uncomfortable sentiment about the set up of the other lab.
I mentioned all of this to say that it helps, significantly in many cases, to have a laptop that's powerful enough to do what you need to do and then render at school. It would be nice if more schools placed a higher value on building network rendering options with all of the computer hardware they tend to have access to. Even without that the whole network rendering advantage the aforementioned combination, I believe, is still preferable. Initially, I got a desktop with the idea that rendering, away from school, would be key but I really didn't have enough time working with the software early on to eliminate a lot of basic knowledge barriers that prevented me from just being able to create a little more and solve interface understanding problems a little less. Getting a laptop late helped so much more that if I'd had it to do all over I would have gotten a laptop and then later probably gotten a different or upgraded laptop to have an alternate option and just nixed the desktop idea. The flexibility in learning that the laptop afforded me, in terms of being able to have access to the interface pretty much anywhere I was most comfortable including different places at school was invaluable and allowed me to make much better use of larger resources.
For me this room created the worst sense of not having "space" to work possible. You could constantly hear people coming into the lab that you couldn't see, the doors were open unless it was a class period so you always heard everyone in the halls and in the lounge area outside the room, you always felt like there was someone behind you that you couldn't see and that they were probably paying more attention to your monitor than their own (which a lot of the times was actually the case.) At first, I thought it was just me being paranoid but consistently I found that until the last minute of the semester, when people NEEDED to render final projects, that lab would stay completely empty except for a number of people you could generally count on one hand. The other smaller labs, once they were actually opened for non-class open lab and had students facing the doors consistently stayed either full or 3/4 full. After talking to some friends they echoed the uncomfortable sentiment about the set up of the other lab.
I mentioned all of this to say that it helps, significantly in many cases, to have a laptop that's powerful enough to do what you need to do and then render at school. It would be nice if more schools placed a higher value on building network rendering options with all of the computer hardware they tend to have access to. Even without that the whole network rendering advantage the aforementioned combination, I believe, is still preferable. Initially, I got a desktop with the idea that rendering, away from school, would be key but I really didn't have enough time working with the software early on to eliminate a lot of basic knowledge barriers that prevented me from just being able to create a little more and solve interface understanding problems a little less. Getting a laptop late helped so much more that if I'd had it to do all over I would have gotten a laptop and then later probably gotten a different or upgraded laptop to have an alternate option and just nixed the desktop idea. The flexibility in learning that the laptop afforded me, in terms of being able to have access to the interface pretty much anywhere I was most comfortable including different places at school was invaluable and allowed me to make much better use of larger resources.
Kskovbo
02-03-2009, 09:09 AM
Thanks for the answers!
K,
K,
almagesto
02-03-2009, 09:59 PM
thanks guys for ur opinions... im going to VFS on may, but i think i will stay in the lab to work, as i really hope to get on well with the other guys that are there, and share the knowledge and help each others as some people that went before to VFS said this should be the right approach to have (and that s my life's approach too anyway).
im just a bit disappointed by the fact that the pc at vfs dont have 2 monitor as it s really useful and speed up ur work.
i got a question: it s easy to meet and collaborate with people from other courses like sound, acting etc, in order to make a better reel?
im just a bit disappointed by the fact that the pc at vfs dont have 2 monitor as it s really useful and speed up ur work.
i got a question: it s easy to meet and collaborate with people from other courses like sound, acting etc, in order to make a better reel?
eldee
02-06-2009, 06:28 AM
i got a question: it s easy to meet and collaborate with people from other courses like sound, acting etc, in order to make a better reel?
unfortunately, no. If you mill around the burrard campus a bit you might run into some sound guys, but there's no way of telling who's who in terms of where they're at in the program. You can talk to the heads of the department and they can get you in touch with individuals who might be interested, but there's no "easy" way to do it. In the past I've suggested that they create a school-wide forum, but it has never happened and I doubt it ever will really. They recently implemented a wiki, and I think it's mostly empty :P
unfortunately, no. If you mill around the burrard campus a bit you might run into some sound guys, but there's no way of telling who's who in terms of where they're at in the program. You can talk to the heads of the department and they can get you in touch with individuals who might be interested, but there's no "easy" way to do it. In the past I've suggested that they create a school-wide forum, but it has never happened and I doubt it ever will really. They recently implemented a wiki, and I think it's mostly empty :P
Intervain
02-08-2009, 03:13 AM
For me this room created the worst sense of not having "space" to work possible. You could constantly hear people coming into the lab that you couldn't see, the doors were open unless it was a class period so you always heard everyone in the halls and in the lounge area outside the room, you always felt like there was someone behind you that you couldn't see and that they were probably paying more attention to your monitor than their own
:surprised learning to ignore them could help you even more - this job is all about open space, and people talking all around you and looking at your monitor from time to time... unless you're a freelancer working from home... Since most people go to shools like VFS so that they can work for a studio, a lab like VFS' Ant Farm is a perfect introduction to reality.
:surprised learning to ignore them could help you even more - this job is all about open space, and people talking all around you and looking at your monitor from time to time... unless you're a freelancer working from home... Since most people go to shools like VFS so that they can work for a studio, a lab like VFS' Ant Farm is a perfect introduction to reality.
ShadowM8
02-10-2009, 06:20 AM
For me this room created the worst sense of not having "space" to work possible. You could constantly hear people coming into the lab that you couldn't see, the doors were open unless it was a class period so you always heard everyone in the halls and in the lounge area outside the room, you always felt like there was someone behind you that you couldn't see and that they were probably paying more attention to your monitor than their own ...
Most places have an open floor policy where your screen is always visible to everyone in the room and those passing by, including your leads and supervisors. If you can't deal with people watching you work then you will find it really tough to do your job. That's not to say you have to like it but you can't let it affect your work.
Most places have an open floor policy where your screen is always visible to everyone in the room and those passing by, including your leads and supervisors. If you can't deal with people watching you work then you will find it really tough to do your job. That's not to say you have to like it but you can't let it affect your work.
TrevorTang
02-11-2009, 02:48 AM
Most places have an open floor policy where your screen is always visible to everyone in the room and those passing by, including your leads and supervisors. If you can't deal with people watching you work then you will find it really tough to do your job. That's not to say you have to like it but you can't let it affect your work.
Unless you got sent to a "hole" to work in like my previous job in a "L" shaped pathway. I was at the end of the short end of the "L" facing the wall. I was all alone to do my thing, but people sneak up behind you and scare the bejezes out of you hehe.
Unless you got sent to a "hole" to work in like my previous job in a "L" shaped pathway. I was at the end of the short end of the "L" facing the wall. I was all alone to do my thing, but people sneak up behind you and scare the bejezes out of you hehe.
mtn3
02-12-2009, 12:07 AM
Hey guys,
There's a page long review on the VFS animation + visual effects program below if anybody is interested.
http://www.artschoolreviews.ca/reviews/vancouver-film-school-reviews/3d-animation-visual-effects/from-fountation-to-visual-effects
If there are any other VFS alumni around, it would be great if you would contribute your personal stories as well.
Cheers.
There's a page long review on the VFS animation + visual effects program below if anybody is interested.
http://www.artschoolreviews.ca/reviews/vancouver-film-school-reviews/3d-animation-visual-effects/from-fountation-to-visual-effects
If there are any other VFS alumni around, it would be great if you would contribute your personal stories as well.
Cheers.
Boogy
02-17-2009, 10:18 PM
Hi everybody! Read this topic (it took me a long time), all thanks for the replies, a lot of useful information.
Thinking to come to Vancouver for a month before the study. At exploration, so to speak :)
My program starts in May 2009 (Maya 2009=).
Who starts in May - please contact. Do not feel shy :wavey:
Thinking to come to Vancouver for a month before the study. At exploration, so to speak :)
My program starts in May 2009 (Maya 2009=).
Who starts in May - please contact. Do not feel shy :wavey:
almagesto
02-18-2009, 02:11 PM
Hi everybody! Read this topic (it took me a long time), all thanks for the replies, a lot of useful information.
Thinking to come to Vancouver for a month before the study. At exploration, so to speak :)
My program starts in May 2009 (Maya 2009=).
Who starts in May - please contact. Do not feel shy :wavey:
hey man i start vfs in may too! I tried to send u a pm but it looks like u cant receive them as it says "Boogy has chosen not to receive private messages or may not be allowed to receive private messages. Therefore you may not send your message to him/her."
take my msn e_bignone**at**h0tmail*com
and all the other people that start in May can add me too!
ciao
Thinking to come to Vancouver for a month before the study. At exploration, so to speak :)
My program starts in May 2009 (Maya 2009=).
Who starts in May - please contact. Do not feel shy :wavey:
hey man i start vfs in may too! I tried to send u a pm but it looks like u cant receive them as it says "Boogy has chosen not to receive private messages or may not be allowed to receive private messages. Therefore you may not send your message to him/her."
take my msn e_bignone**at**h0tmail*com
and all the other people that start in May can add me too!
ciao
Boogy
02-18-2009, 04:40 PM
hey man i start vfs in may too! I tried to send u a pm but it looks like u cant receive them as it says "Boogy has chosen not to receive private messages or may not be allowed to receive private messages. Therefore you may not send your message to him/her."
Don't know what's matter with PM here. Contact me with MSN. And all others who starts in may09
Don't know what's matter with PM here. Contact me with MSN. And all others who starts in may09
mtn3
02-22-2009, 04:58 AM
Hey guys,
We got a new page long review of the Animation and VFX program at VFS and it's a must read.
http://www.artschoolreviews.ca/reviews/vancouver-film-school-reviews/3d-animation-visual-effects/a-risky-investment
We're just hoping to start a little niche website for Vancouver, and the reception has been great. Hope you guys learn something from the review and please don't hesitate to comment.
Cheers.
We got a new page long review of the Animation and VFX program at VFS and it's a must read.
http://www.artschoolreviews.ca/reviews/vancouver-film-school-reviews/3d-animation-visual-effects/a-risky-investment
We're just hoping to start a little niche website for Vancouver, and the reception has been great. Hope you guys learn something from the review and please don't hesitate to comment.
Cheers.
pentexplorer
02-22-2009, 07:35 AM
Anyone applied and going for VFS October intake?
TrevorTang
02-23-2009, 01:54 AM
Hey guys,
We got a new page long review of the Animation and VFX program at VFS and it's a must read.
http://www.artschoolreviews.ca/reviews/vancouver-film-school-reviews/3d-animation-visual-effects/a-risky-investment
We're just hoping to start a little niche website for Vancouver, and the reception has been great. Hope you guys learn something from the review and please don't hesitate to comment.
Cheers.
Ahh that is a great review from Remo which I was a classmate with. I can agree it's tough finding work straight out of VFS, and I know of grads still hunting for their first job over a year after. But if you know CG work is your future, you must strive for it. Although have a backup plan if it fails you in the mean time.
We got a new page long review of the Animation and VFX program at VFS and it's a must read.
http://www.artschoolreviews.ca/reviews/vancouver-film-school-reviews/3d-animation-visual-effects/a-risky-investment
We're just hoping to start a little niche website for Vancouver, and the reception has been great. Hope you guys learn something from the review and please don't hesitate to comment.
Cheers.
Ahh that is a great review from Remo which I was a classmate with. I can agree it's tough finding work straight out of VFS, and I know of grads still hunting for their first job over a year after. But if you know CG work is your future, you must strive for it. Although have a backup plan if it fails you in the mean time.
jsweddington
02-23-2009, 07:44 AM
Enlightening and at the same time scary read. The review touches on many points I agree with, such as 2 terms of classical animation when I knew within the first couple weeks of term 1 that I was going into modeling for sure.
One thing I do disagree with is Sculpture. I think sculpture for someone going into modeling is a good thing. Where classical animation is good for animators, Sculpture helps modelers.
Jobs of course are going to be scarce. Currently most are in any industry. The ones that generally aren't are the minimum wage jobs we all try to avoid.
Changes are happening at VFS. Yes modeling stream still uses XSI (Maya definitely feels worse) A Zbrush "workshop" is in the works. Hopefully as soon as next term.
A well written review even if I cannot agree with all of it. Hope things improve for him.
One thing I do disagree with is Sculpture. I think sculpture for someone going into modeling is a good thing. Where classical animation is good for animators, Sculpture helps modelers.
Jobs of course are going to be scarce. Currently most are in any industry. The ones that generally aren't are the minimum wage jobs we all try to avoid.
Changes are happening at VFS. Yes modeling stream still uses XSI (Maya definitely feels worse) A Zbrush "workshop" is in the works. Hopefully as soon as next term.
A well written review even if I cannot agree with all of it. Hope things improve for him.
pentexplorer
02-23-2009, 11:51 AM
Enlightening and at the same time scary read. The review touches on many points I agree with, such as 2 terms of classical animation when I knew within the first couple weeks of term 1 that I was going into modeling for sure.
One thing I do disagree with is Sculpture. I think sculpture for someone going into modeling is a good thing. Where classical animation is good for animators, Sculpture helps modelers.
Jobs of course are going to be scarce. Currently most are in any industry. The ones that generally aren't are the minimum wage jobs we all try to avoid.
Changes are happening at VFS. Yes modeling stream still uses XSI (Maya definitely feels worse) A Zbrush "workshop" is in the works. Hopefully as soon as next term.
A well written review even if I cannot agree with all of it. Hope things improve for him.
Workshop you mean classes in the 3d program or a separate certificate? I didn't know VFS uses XSI instead of Maya.. I thought they used Maya. thats for vfx and animation as well?
One thing I do disagree with is Sculpture. I think sculpture for someone going into modeling is a good thing. Where classical animation is good for animators, Sculpture helps modelers.
Jobs of course are going to be scarce. Currently most are in any industry. The ones that generally aren't are the minimum wage jobs we all try to avoid.
Changes are happening at VFS. Yes modeling stream still uses XSI (Maya definitely feels worse) A Zbrush "workshop" is in the works. Hopefully as soon as next term.
A well written review even if I cannot agree with all of it. Hope things improve for him.
Workshop you mean classes in the 3d program or a separate certificate? I didn't know VFS uses XSI instead of Maya.. I thought they used Maya. thats for vfx and animation as well?
jsweddington
02-23-2009, 02:54 PM
Workshop you mean classes in the 3d program or a separate certificate? I didn't know VFS uses XSI instead of Maya.. I thought they used Maya. thats for vfx and animation as well?
Animation and modeling stream uses XSI. VFX uses Maya. Workshop means extra-curricular within the 3d program.
Animation and modeling stream uses XSI. VFX uses Maya. Workshop means extra-curricular within the 3d program.
eldee
02-27-2009, 12:44 AM
I've got a few things to say about that article-
He makes some valid points, but his opinions are far from objective. For starters, anybody with such a pessimistic attitude is going to have a hard time finding jobs. It's a psychological fact- if you're not optimistic, you're less open to opportunity. Nevermind the fact that you come off as gloomy and moody in an interview, potentially costing you a job right then and there (nobody wants to work with another gloomy a-hole). You've got to take what he's saying with a healthy dose of salt, because anybody who can blanket an entire industry with an opinion like "if you are married your wife will leave you and you will never get a girlfriend" obviously has some other issues to work out with a therapist, as myself and other happily married folk can attest to.
Now then- as for his other points. It's true that most of the "effing awesome" reels that come out of VFS are done by students with prior experience, but not ALL of them are by any stretch of the imagination. For example- Julianna Kolakis (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzJ3IXuuQOI) (while I don't know her personally, but hear from individuals who do), had never touched 3D before coming to VFS.. although she had a very strong 2D background.
Point #2: Hard work. It's true that if you attend VFS you should be prepared for one of the most intense years of your life. That's not to say it won't be fun.. it's an insane amount of fun if you are open to making friends and not rubbing people the wrong way. Be open to criticism, and ask for help OFTEN. People will learn from you, you will learn from others. You will become good if you work hard. There is no other way around it- you get back what you put in.. make the investment worth it, there is nobody who can do it for you.
Point #3: Is it worth the investment? This is entirely relative to the student in question. For some it's not worth it, for others it could be the opportunity of a lifetime. My only advice here is remember that VFS is a business, and the admissions office is a very talented group of advertisers. Before you sign anything talk to alumni and read this entire thread to make sure the school is right for you. It is 100% relative to the student. They let students in who are not ready for an immersion program like this. I'm talking zero drawing/3d/technical skills, and they tend to suffer greatly through the course. Some of them are able to catch up, but most are not. Either way, VFS has an additional 50k in the bank and that's the ultimate goal (regardless of the mission statement).
Point #4: Competition. It's true that competition is fierce, which should be your motivating factor for the work you produce and the hours you put in each day. This is your year to become a professional, and you have less time to do it than most. You have to hone your skills and become a competetive artist, or you will have a hard time finding a job. BUT if you don't find a job right away that is no reason to give up. As soon as you finish VFS you should be working on your NEXT demo reel, or contest, or sketch of the day. Stay active, and stay focused. Jobs open up, and if you have the right attitude and a decent portfolio you WILL get a job.
And lastly, software. VFS uses both XSI and Maya, and students are free to choose either one. You will have a slightly more challenging time you choose the software that is not the one they're primarily teaching, but that's not usually a problem. Every single class, when new material is taught- the instructor will usually say something like "who wants to see it done in maya", and if there is interest, he will quickly go over the same thing in maya. The lessons are primarily taught in XSI (currently, although it may change at some point) but that isn't really a limitation. If you know one piece of software, you can easily pick up another. The concepts are almost all the same, it just becomes a matter of finding where the FCurve editor is, or where the split-polygon tool is.. etc. It's not like learning a foreign language, like the author of that article is making it sound. I can say that with some authority since I frequently go between Max, Maya, and XSI.
He makes some valid points, but his opinions are far from objective. For starters, anybody with such a pessimistic attitude is going to have a hard time finding jobs. It's a psychological fact- if you're not optimistic, you're less open to opportunity. Nevermind the fact that you come off as gloomy and moody in an interview, potentially costing you a job right then and there (nobody wants to work with another gloomy a-hole). You've got to take what he's saying with a healthy dose of salt, because anybody who can blanket an entire industry with an opinion like "if you are married your wife will leave you and you will never get a girlfriend" obviously has some other issues to work out with a therapist, as myself and other happily married folk can attest to.
Now then- as for his other points. It's true that most of the "effing awesome" reels that come out of VFS are done by students with prior experience, but not ALL of them are by any stretch of the imagination. For example- Julianna Kolakis (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PzJ3IXuuQOI) (while I don't know her personally, but hear from individuals who do), had never touched 3D before coming to VFS.. although she had a very strong 2D background.
Point #2: Hard work. It's true that if you attend VFS you should be prepared for one of the most intense years of your life. That's not to say it won't be fun.. it's an insane amount of fun if you are open to making friends and not rubbing people the wrong way. Be open to criticism, and ask for help OFTEN. People will learn from you, you will learn from others. You will become good if you work hard. There is no other way around it- you get back what you put in.. make the investment worth it, there is nobody who can do it for you.
Point #3: Is it worth the investment? This is entirely relative to the student in question. For some it's not worth it, for others it could be the opportunity of a lifetime. My only advice here is remember that VFS is a business, and the admissions office is a very talented group of advertisers. Before you sign anything talk to alumni and read this entire thread to make sure the school is right for you. It is 100% relative to the student. They let students in who are not ready for an immersion program like this. I'm talking zero drawing/3d/technical skills, and they tend to suffer greatly through the course. Some of them are able to catch up, but most are not. Either way, VFS has an additional 50k in the bank and that's the ultimate goal (regardless of the mission statement).
Point #4: Competition. It's true that competition is fierce, which should be your motivating factor for the work you produce and the hours you put in each day. This is your year to become a professional, and you have less time to do it than most. You have to hone your skills and become a competetive artist, or you will have a hard time finding a job. BUT if you don't find a job right away that is no reason to give up. As soon as you finish VFS you should be working on your NEXT demo reel, or contest, or sketch of the day. Stay active, and stay focused. Jobs open up, and if you have the right attitude and a decent portfolio you WILL get a job.
And lastly, software. VFS uses both XSI and Maya, and students are free to choose either one. You will have a slightly more challenging time you choose the software that is not the one they're primarily teaching, but that's not usually a problem. Every single class, when new material is taught- the instructor will usually say something like "who wants to see it done in maya", and if there is interest, he will quickly go over the same thing in maya. The lessons are primarily taught in XSI (currently, although it may change at some point) but that isn't really a limitation. If you know one piece of software, you can easily pick up another. The concepts are almost all the same, it just becomes a matter of finding where the FCurve editor is, or where the split-polygon tool is.. etc. It's not like learning a foreign language, like the author of that article is making it sound. I can say that with some authority since I frequently go between Max, Maya, and XSI.
pentexplorer
02-27-2009, 06:48 AM
how is vfs vfx stream compared to like lost boys learning school program? lost boys is like 1/2 of the tuition fees and a smaller class size which could benefit better.
eldee
02-28-2009, 05:18 AM
My guess is that you won't find many people who have been through both programs, so finding an objective opinion on that may be difficult.
ShadowM8
02-28-2009, 06:38 PM
One way to compare is to look at the grad employment rate, I think Lost Boys Learning is at 94%. I don't know about VFS but I doubt it hits over 50%. It's also worth pointing out that Mark Benard use to be a VFX mentor at VFS.
The industry tours that Mark does with his students are also priceless in my oppinion!
The industry tours that Mark does with his students are also priceless in my oppinion!
googboog8
02-28-2009, 09:26 PM
whats the student intake of lost boys? i heard that their student teacher ratio is very low... so they better have a high placement rate
ShadowM8
02-28-2009, 09:50 PM
Yeah their classes are quite a bit smaller but that doesn't negate the quality of education or undermine the placement rate in any way.
googboog8
02-28-2009, 10:19 PM
not saying anything about the quality of education.
just saying that such statistics are easier when you have fewer students to take care of. also because it has a more one on one and specialized approach than vfs. i think the visual fx stream in vfs is pretty good as well. it isn't the stream i've chosen but the vfx reels are usually the most impressive, with the odd modeling and animation reel.
just saying that such statistics are easier when you have fewer students to take care of. also because it has a more one on one and specialized approach than vfs. i think the visual fx stream in vfs is pretty good as well. it isn't the stream i've chosen but the vfx reels are usually the most impressive, with the odd modeling and animation reel.
MaeflowerJ
03-25-2009, 10:06 AM
I read through about 7 pages of this thread and got some great information, and decided it was finally time to post.
As I was reading through this thread I saw some things that I never had realized before (especially things the advisors won't tell you) but I am still excited to go. I think that phrase "What you put into it is what you get out of it" rings true for ANY school. As long as you have a drive to succeed and ask lots of questions, you'll do great. I see those brats just chatting away on their computers during class at the community college just as much. The teachers aren't there to lead you by the hand and force you to work. Anyway, I think I can do it. I can definitely devote 10+ hours a day to learning and working.
I started looking at art schools at around September last year, and ultimately decided on VFS. I'm from Washington state, about 60 miles north of Seattle, so DigiPen and the Art Institute were other schools I thought about. But, VFS's 1 year intensive program seemed to fit me just right, and the overall tuition comes to about half what the other schools would be. I applied and secured my spot for the August 31st start date in the 3D Animation and Visual Effects program. I plan on taking the modeling stream, with a focus on environments.
I was wondering if anyone has applied for that program near that start date? Or if there is anyone here who has recently completed (or is attending) the 3D modeling stream.
Thanks!
As I was reading through this thread I saw some things that I never had realized before (especially things the advisors won't tell you) but I am still excited to go. I think that phrase "What you put into it is what you get out of it" rings true for ANY school. As long as you have a drive to succeed and ask lots of questions, you'll do great. I see those brats just chatting away on their computers during class at the community college just as much. The teachers aren't there to lead you by the hand and force you to work. Anyway, I think I can do it. I can definitely devote 10+ hours a day to learning and working.
I started looking at art schools at around September last year, and ultimately decided on VFS. I'm from Washington state, about 60 miles north of Seattle, so DigiPen and the Art Institute were other schools I thought about. But, VFS's 1 year intensive program seemed to fit me just right, and the overall tuition comes to about half what the other schools would be. I applied and secured my spot for the August 31st start date in the 3D Animation and Visual Effects program. I plan on taking the modeling stream, with a focus on environments.
I was wondering if anyone has applied for that program near that start date? Or if there is anyone here who has recently completed (or is attending) the 3D modeling stream.
Thanks!
colesslaw
03-26-2009, 12:23 AM
@MaeflowerJ-
I have just completed the program at the end of february and went through the modeling stream. I had a blast and I'm sure you would as well, just be prepared of getting sick once in a while, since its like a pandemic in there ;). Our modeling mentor is very helpful and knowledgable, I'm glad we had him.
I have just completed the program at the end of february and went through the modeling stream. I had a blast and I'm sure you would as well, just be prepared of getting sick once in a while, since its like a pandemic in there ;). Our modeling mentor is very helpful and knowledgable, I'm glad we had him.
MaeflowerJ
03-26-2009, 01:59 AM
Do you think the program was worth the tuition price? Compared to my other options, it works better for me, but I'd like to know what you think.
I think schools in general are breeding grounds for viruses. I've gotten some of my nastiest colds from school.
I think schools in general are breeding grounds for viruses. I've gotten some of my nastiest colds from school.
googboog8
03-26-2009, 01:36 PM
I read through about 7 pages of this thread and got some great information, and decided it was finally time to post.
As I was reading through this thread I saw some things that I never had realized before (especially things the advisors won't tell you) but I am still excited to go. I think that phrase "What you put into it is what you get out of it" rings true for ANY school. As long as you have a drive to succeed and ask lots of questions, you'll do great. I see those brats just chatting away on their computers during class at the community college just as much. The teachers aren't there to lead you by the hand and force you to work. Anyway, I think I can do it. I can definitely devote 10+ hours a day to learning and working.
I started looking at art schools at around September last year, and ultimately decided on VFS. I'm from Washington state, about 60 miles north of Seattle, so DigiPen and the Art Institute were other schools I thought about. But, VFS's 1 year intensive program seemed to fit me just right, and the overall tuition comes to about half what the other schools would be. I applied and secured my spot for the August 31st start date in the 3D Animation and Visual Effects program. I plan on taking the modeling stream, with a focus on environments.
I was wondering if anyone has applied for that program near that start date? Or if there is anyone here who has recently completed (or is attending) the 3D modeling stream.
Thanks!
if you're willing to put in 10+ hours a day in the beginning and about 16+ hours a day from term 3 then you should graduate with an awesome demo reel.
good luck.
As I was reading through this thread I saw some things that I never had realized before (especially things the advisors won't tell you) but I am still excited to go. I think that phrase "What you put into it is what you get out of it" rings true for ANY school. As long as you have a drive to succeed and ask lots of questions, you'll do great. I see those brats just chatting away on their computers during class at the community college just as much. The teachers aren't there to lead you by the hand and force you to work. Anyway, I think I can do it. I can definitely devote 10+ hours a day to learning and working.
I started looking at art schools at around September last year, and ultimately decided on VFS. I'm from Washington state, about 60 miles north of Seattle, so DigiPen and the Art Institute were other schools I thought about. But, VFS's 1 year intensive program seemed to fit me just right, and the overall tuition comes to about half what the other schools would be. I applied and secured my spot for the August 31st start date in the 3D Animation and Visual Effects program. I plan on taking the modeling stream, with a focus on environments.
I was wondering if anyone has applied for that program near that start date? Or if there is anyone here who has recently completed (or is attending) the 3D modeling stream.
Thanks!
if you're willing to put in 10+ hours a day in the beginning and about 16+ hours a day from term 3 then you should graduate with an awesome demo reel.
good luck.
Womball
03-26-2009, 04:27 PM
How long are the classes, and how many do you take a week. I'm interested in the modelling program.
googboog8
03-26-2009, 05:58 PM
How long are the classes, and how many do you take a week. I'm interested in the modelling program.
the first 2 terms are basically for getting everyone in the class who doesnt have a design background upto speed.
you learn classical animation, 3d modeling (basic), animation (basic), texturing, lighting. storyboarding, compositing, history of animation, film theory and maybe a few other stuff.
the 3rd term is when u start building up on a concept for your demo reel,
in term 4 you get split up into streams, modeling, animation and vfx. different mentors, lesser classes, more time to work on your own stuff. modeling students have advanced modeling and sculpture class.
this is when you start making all your proxy models, doing animation tests, brushing up on stuff you forgot about in term 1.
term 5 is where you're spending 20 hours a day in the school working on your reel.
term 6 is for finishing touches, sound, rendering, editing etc.
the first 2 terms are basically for getting everyone in the class who doesnt have a design background upto speed.
you learn classical animation, 3d modeling (basic), animation (basic), texturing, lighting. storyboarding, compositing, history of animation, film theory and maybe a few other stuff.
the 3rd term is when u start building up on a concept for your demo reel,
in term 4 you get split up into streams, modeling, animation and vfx. different mentors, lesser classes, more time to work on your own stuff. modeling students have advanced modeling and sculpture class.
this is when you start making all your proxy models, doing animation tests, brushing up on stuff you forgot about in term 1.
term 5 is where you're spending 20 hours a day in the school working on your reel.
term 6 is for finishing touches, sound, rendering, editing etc.
JamesMcPhail
03-26-2009, 06:12 PM
term 6 is for finishing touches, sound, rendering, editing etc.
From my experience very few students are using term 6 for only those things ;) :)
From my experience very few students are using term 6 for only those things ;) :)
googboog8
03-26-2009, 06:15 PM
yeah well thats what the rules say...
heheh.. 98% of the students end up redoing a bunch of stuff in term 6 :D
or just trying to finish it...
heheh.. 98% of the students end up redoing a bunch of stuff in term 6 :D
or just trying to finish it...
Womball
03-26-2009, 06:18 PM
The 20 hours a day is the 2-3 week crunchtime toward the end of the year? Can you bypass terms if you can show your capable of understanding the main concepts taught?
And what are the lesser classes?
And what are the lesser classes?
googboog8
03-26-2009, 06:24 PM
you cant by pass terms. everyone is given equal training here.
classes like storyboarding, life drawing, photoshop, premiere, etc which i dont think really help in improving 3d skills but I guess they do give you some kind of foundation.
oh and there is attendance so if you dont attend a bunch of classes without reason/permission you can get expelled.
classes like storyboarding, life drawing, photoshop, premiere, etc which i dont think really help in improving 3d skills but I guess they do give you some kind of foundation.
oh and there is attendance so if you dont attend a bunch of classes without reason/permission you can get expelled.
Womball
03-26-2009, 06:34 PM
Never had an attendance problem. I guess the refresher wouldn't hurt. Might learn some new things.
colesslaw
03-26-2009, 07:46 PM
How long are the classes, and how many do you take a week. I'm interested in the modelling program.
All classes are in 3-hour blocks. How many classes per week and what time/day you take those classes shifts around A LOT, so you have to constantly check your schedule for every week. But I just counted my old schedules, its anything from 9-12 classes per week for terms 1-3. Classes can go from 9am to 10pm on some days when you have night classes (some instructors only teach at night) but usually if you have a long day you have a 3-hour break inbetween.
For terms 4-6, classes become minimal for all streams. There are more classes for the VFX stream than the modeling and animation, because we were barely taught any VFX in the first 3 terms. How many hours you spend working in terms 4-6 totally depends on you, you don't necessarily have to work 20 hours a day. I went to school 6 days a week and spent the core hours there 9-6, to simulate a work situation, and I complete everything on time. ( I did stay over night 2 times though). Those that work 20 hours a day often skip a few days a week so they have to make up with 20+ hours.
Do you think the program was worth the tuition price?
Not everyone will agree with me, but I think it was well worth the price. I have no previous 3D experience, and I seriously doubt I can come this far anywhere else within 1 year.
Some people will argue to death that you can learn all this stuff on your own with some tutorial DVDs and books, without spending so much money. Perhaps that is true, but for me without any 3d experience I didn't even know where to start, and learning alone will take much more time than 1 year.
Some people will say that they never learnt that much from the instructors, and learnt most things from their classmates and working hard on their own. That again might be true, but isn't that part of any education? The great advantage of school is you meet all these different ppl with different backgrounds and you learn from each other. I have also gone through a bachelar program from somewhere else and I learnt a lot more at vfs. All post secondary education are the same in that teachers are not there to take you by the hand, and you have to learn to work hard on your own.
All classes are in 3-hour blocks. How many classes per week and what time/day you take those classes shifts around A LOT, so you have to constantly check your schedule for every week. But I just counted my old schedules, its anything from 9-12 classes per week for terms 1-3. Classes can go from 9am to 10pm on some days when you have night classes (some instructors only teach at night) but usually if you have a long day you have a 3-hour break inbetween.
For terms 4-6, classes become minimal for all streams. There are more classes for the VFX stream than the modeling and animation, because we were barely taught any VFX in the first 3 terms. How many hours you spend working in terms 4-6 totally depends on you, you don't necessarily have to work 20 hours a day. I went to school 6 days a week and spent the core hours there 9-6, to simulate a work situation, and I complete everything on time. ( I did stay over night 2 times though). Those that work 20 hours a day often skip a few days a week so they have to make up with 20+ hours.
Do you think the program was worth the tuition price?
Not everyone will agree with me, but I think it was well worth the price. I have no previous 3D experience, and I seriously doubt I can come this far anywhere else within 1 year.
Some people will argue to death that you can learn all this stuff on your own with some tutorial DVDs and books, without spending so much money. Perhaps that is true, but for me without any 3d experience I didn't even know where to start, and learning alone will take much more time than 1 year.
Some people will say that they never learnt that much from the instructors, and learnt most things from their classmates and working hard on their own. That again might be true, but isn't that part of any education? The great advantage of school is you meet all these different ppl with different backgrounds and you learn from each other. I have also gone through a bachelar program from somewhere else and I learnt a lot more at vfs. All post secondary education are the same in that teachers are not there to take you by the hand, and you have to learn to work hard on your own.
JamesMcPhail
03-26-2009, 09:26 PM
I think the big thing to think about in terms 4-6 is how you spend your time. Plenty of people feel that they have to be at school untill midnight etc no matter what. Especially when you see other students doing the same thing.
The problem is that a lot of people who do that slack arround so much during those late nights that they would be better of going home and sleeping. Rather than thinking that their reel is going to get better through osmosis or something.
When I was there I went to school from 9 - 5 during terms 1-3. In Term 4 I was there from 9 - 6 most days and sometimes I would come back in the evening and an occasional saturday or really late night before presentations. In Terms 5 and 6 though I was there from 8 - 6. Then I would go home for dinner for an hour or so, then back at school until 1 - 3 in the morning. If I was having a night when I knew I wasn't going to be productive I would go home early and get some proper sleep.
My attitude was always that If I am at school I may as well be working. Not to say my class didn't have any fun. We had plenty of it. I just didn't fall into the trap of treating the ant farm like party central and dicking around all night rather than getting stuff done.
There was one guy in my class who almost lived at school through the last few terms and his reel is amazing. But another guy in my class was there almost as long every and sadly his reel didn't turn out well at all.
To end this rambling post what I am trying to say is don't fall into the culture of staying late just to stay late. Unless you are being productive you may as well get some sleep :)
The problem is that a lot of people who do that slack arround so much during those late nights that they would be better of going home and sleeping. Rather than thinking that their reel is going to get better through osmosis or something.
When I was there I went to school from 9 - 5 during terms 1-3. In Term 4 I was there from 9 - 6 most days and sometimes I would come back in the evening and an occasional saturday or really late night before presentations. In Terms 5 and 6 though I was there from 8 - 6. Then I would go home for dinner for an hour or so, then back at school until 1 - 3 in the morning. If I was having a night when I knew I wasn't going to be productive I would go home early and get some proper sleep.
My attitude was always that If I am at school I may as well be working. Not to say my class didn't have any fun. We had plenty of it. I just didn't fall into the trap of treating the ant farm like party central and dicking around all night rather than getting stuff done.
There was one guy in my class who almost lived at school through the last few terms and his reel is amazing. But another guy in my class was there almost as long every and sadly his reel didn't turn out well at all.
To end this rambling post what I am trying to say is don't fall into the culture of staying late just to stay late. Unless you are being productive you may as well get some sleep :)
Intervain
03-26-2009, 10:09 PM
I personally just switched my schedule completely. I would come to school around 2 pm in terms 5&6 and work till 2 in the morning... it got way too insane but there was the benefit of having an almost empty lab at your disposal after about 10 PM, which is important for rendering.
Womball
03-26-2009, 10:52 PM
How long is the 5 and 6 term? Also do you work in class on your projects. I'm hoping the course isn't as painful as doing a animated short in 9ish months, by yourself. I had to do those late nights, hated it. Its bad when you have to sleep under a computer, living on potatoe chips. If I went to VFSI would really like some time (2 hours) for workouts or martial arts. Or do you end up becoming really greasy and gain 10 pounds than? It sounds like you have to live at the school for months getting only 4 hours of sleep a day.
Also do they have beds or couches near the computers for sleeping?
Also do they have beds or couches near the computers for sleeping?
colesslaw
03-26-2009, 10:56 PM
How long is the 5 and 6 term? Also do you work in class on your projects. I'm hoping the course isn't as painful as doing a animated short in 9ish months, by yourself. I had to do those late nights, hated it. Its bad when you have to sleep under a computer, living on potatoe chips. If I went to VFSI would really like some time (2 hours) for workouts or martial arts. Or do you end up becoming really greasy and gain 10 pounds than? It sounds like you have to live at the school for months getting only 4 hours of sleep a day.
Also do they have beds or couches near the computers for sleeping?
The program is 1 year, 6 terms in total, each term is 2 months. You spend the last 3 terms (i.e. 6 months) on the short. The classes you have in the last 3 terms are some instructions and some mentored lab periods. You don't work during the instructional classes since u're in class, but other times u're working on your project. Mentor periods u're working on your project but the mentor comes around one on one to go through your progress and/or problems.
Like I said you don't have to work 20 hours, I went home almost every at 6 and came back the next morning. It all depends on how you arrange your own time.
Also do they have beds or couches near the computers for sleeping?
The program is 1 year, 6 terms in total, each term is 2 months. You spend the last 3 terms (i.e. 6 months) on the short. The classes you have in the last 3 terms are some instructions and some mentored lab periods. You don't work during the instructional classes since u're in class, but other times u're working on your project. Mentor periods u're working on your project but the mentor comes around one on one to go through your progress and/or problems.
Like I said you don't have to work 20 hours, I went home almost every at 6 and came back the next morning. It all depends on how you arrange your own time.
MaeflowerJ
03-27-2009, 05:45 AM
Wow, lots of responses. Thanks for all the info!
googboog8
03-27-2009, 07:33 AM
I think the big thing to think about in terms 4-6 is how you spend your time. Plenty of people feel that they have to be at school untill midnight etc no matter what. Especially when you see other students doing the same thing.
The problem is that a lot of people who do that slack arround so much during those late nights that they would be better of going home and sleeping. Rather than thinking that their reel is going to get better through osmosis or something.
When I was there I went to school from 9 - 5 during terms 1-3. In Term 4 I was there from 9 - 6 most days and sometimes I would come back in the evening and an occasional saturday or really late night before presentations. In Terms 5 and 6 though I was there from 8 - 6. Then I would go home for dinner for an hour or so, then back at school until 1 - 3 in the morning. If I was having a night when I knew I wasn't going to be productive I would go home early and get some proper sleep.
My attitude was always that If I am at school I may as well be working. Not to say my class didn't have any fun. We had plenty of it. I just didn't fall into the trap of treating the ant farm like party central and dicking around all night rather than getting stuff done.
There was one guy in my class who almost lived at school through the last few terms and his reel is amazing. But another guy in my class was there almost as long every and sadly his reel didn't turn out well at all.
To end this rambling post what I am trying to say is don't fall into the culture of staying late just to stay late. Unless you are being productive you may as well get some sleep :)
i really dont see why anyone would want to stay back in school for no reason and give up on a good nights sleep just for the heck of it. i stay in school till about 2 am everyday.
i havent reached the point where i have to stay in school for 20 hours, but i know that towards the end of it, i probably will.
i guess the most important thing is to pace yourself. if you do too much or too little in the beginning then you'll probably struggle later on. but i've also noticed that the ones who stay back in school late are the ones who have improved the most.
the main reason is that there are always people in the ant farm who can help you out with doubts and tell you cooler and easier ways to get things done, that's one advantage that staying in school has over working at home. there are people who believe that they can get work done from home and i rarely see them at school except before presentations and assignment submissions, but unless they have a previous 3d background and already know what they're doing, i wouldnt recommend it. the best thing about vfs is the feedback and the support you get from people around you.
The problem is that a lot of people who do that slack arround so much during those late nights that they would be better of going home and sleeping. Rather than thinking that their reel is going to get better through osmosis or something.
When I was there I went to school from 9 - 5 during terms 1-3. In Term 4 I was there from 9 - 6 most days and sometimes I would come back in the evening and an occasional saturday or really late night before presentations. In Terms 5 and 6 though I was there from 8 - 6. Then I would go home for dinner for an hour or so, then back at school until 1 - 3 in the morning. If I was having a night when I knew I wasn't going to be productive I would go home early and get some proper sleep.
My attitude was always that If I am at school I may as well be working. Not to say my class didn't have any fun. We had plenty of it. I just didn't fall into the trap of treating the ant farm like party central and dicking around all night rather than getting stuff done.
There was one guy in my class who almost lived at school through the last few terms and his reel is amazing. But another guy in my class was there almost as long every and sadly his reel didn't turn out well at all.
To end this rambling post what I am trying to say is don't fall into the culture of staying late just to stay late. Unless you are being productive you may as well get some sleep :)
i really dont see why anyone would want to stay back in school for no reason and give up on a good nights sleep just for the heck of it. i stay in school till about 2 am everyday.
i havent reached the point where i have to stay in school for 20 hours, but i know that towards the end of it, i probably will.
i guess the most important thing is to pace yourself. if you do too much or too little in the beginning then you'll probably struggle later on. but i've also noticed that the ones who stay back in school late are the ones who have improved the most.
the main reason is that there are always people in the ant farm who can help you out with doubts and tell you cooler and easier ways to get things done, that's one advantage that staying in school has over working at home. there are people who believe that they can get work done from home and i rarely see them at school except before presentations and assignment submissions, but unless they have a previous 3d background and already know what they're doing, i wouldnt recommend it. the best thing about vfs is the feedback and the support you get from people around you.
pritishd
03-30-2009, 01:33 AM
Well, since I did came from a non-arts background, I kind of had a lot of catching up to do in terms of training my artistic eye. As someone mentioned, one of the advantages of staying back late was the access to the feedback and problem solving from your peers and seniors. Without the help and support of the student community at VFS, I don't know how I could have completed my reel. Also, many of the staff also used to stay beyond 6 to grade the assignments, so that was another help that we had access to.
I personally didn't do it for the heck of it. I remember I had loads of assignment/deadlines to complete, so I had to stay back. Plus I did not had a computer at home so another reason for me to stay behind.
I think for the majority of the year, I used to leave VFS at 12-2 at night and be back in 9 in the morning. Good luck trying to fit gym in those schedule. Weekends was my opportunity to catch up on sleep.
Just don't fall in the trap of eating those $2 pizza and coke. That was my staple diet, and it almost killed me towards the end.
I personally didn't do it for the heck of it. I remember I had loads of assignment/deadlines to complete, so I had to stay back. Plus I did not had a computer at home so another reason for me to stay behind.
I think for the majority of the year, I used to leave VFS at 12-2 at night and be back in 9 in the morning. Good luck trying to fit gym in those schedule. Weekends was my opportunity to catch up on sleep.
Just don't fall in the trap of eating those $2 pizza and coke. That was my staple diet, and it almost killed me towards the end.
colesslaw
03-30-2009, 06:20 AM
Also do they have beds or couches near the computers for sleeping?
BTW, sleeping on campus is not allowed (I think maybe for legal reasons?)so there are no beds or couches, and you are not allowed to bring any "sleeping peripherals". But there are a ton of empty chairs to make into your own bench ;)
BTW, sleeping on campus is not allowed (I think maybe for legal reasons?)so there are no beds or couches, and you are not allowed to bring any "sleeping peripherals". But there are a ton of empty chairs to make into your own bench ;)
googboog8
03-30-2009, 06:41 AM
BTW, sleeping on campus is not allowed (I think maybe for legal reasons?)so there are no beds or couches, and you are not allowed to bring any "sleeping peripherals". But there are a ton of empty chairs to make into your own bench ;)
yup, the security guard will send you back home if he catches you sleeping on one of his rounds.
you can still take a few hours off a day for exercising if you're strict about it. there are people in my class who go swimming/gym etc regularly, and they're probably the strongest students in class (not just strong physically heheh, i mean with regards to the course) there's also a foozball table where some of us spend atleast an hour everyday.
basically, when you dont have any assignments or deadlines, you can take it easy and get other things done, but every once in a while you get loaded with so much work that you just dont have time for anything else.
btw, sherrie, are you from 73?
yup, the security guard will send you back home if he catches you sleeping on one of his rounds.
you can still take a few hours off a day for exercising if you're strict about it. there are people in my class who go swimming/gym etc regularly, and they're probably the strongest students in class (not just strong physically heheh, i mean with regards to the course) there's also a foozball table where some of us spend atleast an hour everyday.
basically, when you dont have any assignments or deadlines, you can take it easy and get other things done, but every once in a while you get loaded with so much work that you just dont have time for anything else.
btw, sherrie, are you from 73?
colesslaw
03-30-2009, 06:53 AM
btw, sherrie, are you from 73?
that I am :)
you sound like you are in the ant farm now, so 75,76?
our grad is soon March 9 I'm kind of looking forward to it haha
that I am :)
you sound like you are in the ant farm now, so 75,76?
our grad is soon March 9 I'm kind of looking forward to it haha
googboog8
03-30-2009, 07:17 AM
yeah 76. :)
yeah i've seen some of the other stuff from the guys from your class, henry and rakesh, impressive stuff..
yeah i've seen some of the other stuff from the guys from your class, henry and rakesh, impressive stuff..
ShadowM8
03-30-2009, 06:30 PM
I think for most people there's no need to stay long hours during the first 3 terms (unless you really struggle with your 3d or 2d skills) However once term 4 comes around it's another story all together. I think the best thing you can do for yourself is to front load the majority of the work into term 4 and 5. This will help you avoid incredible headache and stress during the last term. Have a plan, follow the deadlines you set for yourself and you'll end up with reasonable hours.
Rendering is still a pain though as Magda mentioned. So if you're doing a VFS/Modeling reel you'd need to spend more then a few nights in your last two terms to take care of that.
Can't believe they still don't have a render farm !!!
Rendering is still a pain though as Magda mentioned. So if you're doing a VFS/Modeling reel you'd need to spend more then a few nights in your last two terms to take care of that.
Can't believe they still don't have a render farm !!!
colesslaw
03-30-2009, 07:25 PM
Can't believe they still don't have a render farm !!!
Actually we have a render farm now, it was re-established about half a year ago. I rendered my whole demo reel on the farm, so that's part of the reason why I didn't have to stay late that many times, I only stay if I have serious work to do perhaps for a presentation deadline or the final deadline.
yeah i've seen some of the other stuff from the guys from your class, henry and rakesh, impressive stuff..
they're amazing ya :)
Actually we have a render farm now, it was re-established about half a year ago. I rendered my whole demo reel on the farm, so that's part of the reason why I didn't have to stay late that many times, I only stay if I have serious work to do perhaps for a presentation deadline or the final deadline.
yeah i've seen some of the other stuff from the guys from your class, henry and rakesh, impressive stuff..
they're amazing ya :)
ShadowM8
03-30-2009, 08:09 PM
Actually we have a render farm now, it was re-established about half a year ago. Correct me if I'm wrong, but my udnerstanding is that what VFS has now is distributed rendering but that is still being done on the unused class workstations, which isn't exactly a renderfarm!
Needless to say that is still a million times better than what we had to go through :)
Needless to say that is still a million times better than what we had to go through :)
colesslaw
03-30-2009, 09:18 PM
Correct me if I'm wrong, but my udnerstanding is that what VFS has now is distributed rendering but that is still being done on the unused class workstations, which isn't exactly a renderfarm!
Needless to say that is still a million times better than what we had to go through :)
Oh you're probably right. I am not as knowledgeable as you about the rendering technologies, just that everyone called it a render farm so I thought its the same thing. But ya it renders only on unused workstations in the classrooms and ant farm. Most of the computers are not in use at night so it's still a great advantage to have it. Many students decided not to use the render farm though (too complicated or too lazy to) so they are missing out.
Needless to say that is still a million times better than what we had to go through :)
Oh you're probably right. I am not as knowledgeable as you about the rendering technologies, just that everyone called it a render farm so I thought its the same thing. But ya it renders only on unused workstations in the classrooms and ant farm. Most of the computers are not in use at night so it's still a great advantage to have it. Many students decided not to use the render farm though (too complicated or too lazy to) so they are missing out.
Intervain
03-31-2009, 01:39 AM
wow I want to see how they manage before the final output's due then ...
but yeah, it's the same way as it was back in the day then :)
but yeah, it's the same way as it was back in the day then :)
MaeflowerJ
03-31-2009, 02:24 AM
Some people just like to do things the hard way, usually because they're too lazy to learn how to do it the easy way. Haha.
pentexplorer
04-02-2009, 03:05 AM
anyone is going in for the october intake?
Dead
04-02-2009, 12:47 PM
I'm an international student who's applied for the august intake, but as everyone says it's alot of money.
For me I've already got 2 degree's (IT + Multimedia) and 3 years working experience in Design and Multimedia (web video etc) and I'm in my late 20's with a good amount of TV experience doing 3d/compositing.
Are there people in a similar position to mine finding the course useful? I'm looking at it as a "Masters of VFX" degree to round off my skills, but I'm wondering if it's better to use the money on 3-4 months of my own time.
For me I've already got 2 degree's (IT + Multimedia) and 3 years working experience in Design and Multimedia (web video etc) and I'm in my late 20's with a good amount of TV experience doing 3d/compositing.
Are there people in a similar position to mine finding the course useful? I'm looking at it as a "Masters of VFX" degree to round off my skills, but I'm wondering if it's better to use the money on 3-4 months of my own time.
Intervain
04-02-2009, 01:41 PM
I'd say with your experience - yes it's better to jut get some gnomon dvds and other materials and do it in your own time, unless you simply can't force yourself to work...:D
ShadowM8
04-02-2009, 07:20 PM
It all depends on how much money you have! It also depends on what you skills are like. Having work experience and being a competent artist who can succeed in VFX don't always go hand in hand.
If you do have very strong skill set already and you can flip the bill for VFS you could just take a year off work and concentrate on making a VFX reel yourself. You'll most likely end up with the same result. And since you do not really need another piece of paper (you'd be fine for any immigration with your degrees if you ever want to go to the states for example) you might as well just do that.
If you do have very strong skill set already and you can flip the bill for VFS you could just take a year off work and concentrate on making a VFX reel yourself. You'll most likely end up with the same result. And since you do not really need another piece of paper (you'd be fine for any immigration with your degrees if you ever want to go to the states for example) you might as well just do that.
greyface
04-08-2009, 03:52 AM
VFS is not for people with intermediate to advanced skills in cg - the first three terms teach you fundamentals, and the last three terms are dedicated to your personal project/demo reel.
Also, the quality of the teaching is questionable, and some important topics (compositing comes to mind) are not explored much. I would therefore recommend, unless you are a beginner, to look elsewhere :thumbsup:
A
Also, the quality of the teaching is questionable, and some important topics (compositing comes to mind) are not explored much. I would therefore recommend, unless you are a beginner, to look elsewhere :thumbsup:
A
pentexplorer
04-08-2009, 01:53 PM
VFS is not for people with intermediate to advanced skills in cg - the first three terms teach you fundamentals, and the last three terms are dedicated to your personal project/demo reel.
Also, the quality of the teaching is questionable, and some important topics (compositing comes to mind) are not explored much. I would therefore recommend, unless you are a beginner, to look elsewhere :thumbsup:
A
thanks for your input...why do you say that? I would like to learn a good amount of compositing and vfx...how is it compared to lost boys or SCAD?
Also, the quality of the teaching is questionable, and some important topics (compositing comes to mind) are not explored much. I would therefore recommend, unless you are a beginner, to look elsewhere :thumbsup:
A
thanks for your input...why do you say that? I would like to learn a good amount of compositing and vfx...how is it compared to lost boys or SCAD?
colesslaw
04-08-2009, 06:07 PM
thanks for your input...why do you say that? I would like to learn a good amount of compositing and vfx...how is it compared to lost boys or SCAD?
At VFS the first 3 terms you get the most classes and are learning drawing fundamentals (life drawing, 2d animation, composition, character design), and learning the basics of modeling, texturing, lighting and animation. No matter your previous experience, everyone is starting at the same place.
There are no compositing and vfx classes in the first 3 terms, other than one After Effects course in term 3. Most of the classes for vfx comes only after you enter your stream choice, i.e. the last 3 terms. However, in the last 3 terms you are concentrated on working on your own demo reel so there is limited time to just do practice projects, you usually want to keep going with your personal project.
For someone like Dead, he already got 2 degrees, he already got a good art background, and already got a good 3D and compositing background. The first 3 terms to him may be just going over things he already know.
At VFS the first 3 terms you get the most classes and are learning drawing fundamentals (life drawing, 2d animation, composition, character design), and learning the basics of modeling, texturing, lighting and animation. No matter your previous experience, everyone is starting at the same place.
There are no compositing and vfx classes in the first 3 terms, other than one After Effects course in term 3. Most of the classes for vfx comes only after you enter your stream choice, i.e. the last 3 terms. However, in the last 3 terms you are concentrated on working on your own demo reel so there is limited time to just do practice projects, you usually want to keep going with your personal project.
For someone like Dead, he already got 2 degrees, he already got a good art background, and already got a good 3D and compositing background. The first 3 terms to him may be just going over things he already know.
greyface
04-08-2009, 08:19 PM
thanks for your input...why do you say that? I would like to learn a good amount of compositing and vfx...how is it compared to lost boys or SCAD?
Well, I'm talking from experience, I took the course last year. I did term 4 in VFX, and switched to modeling for term 5 & 6 because the vfx program was useless. As colesslaw says, there are no compositing classes for the first three terms (which is when 90% of the classes take place).
For compositing, I think I would look into Lost Boys.
Well, I'm talking from experience, I took the course last year. I did term 4 in VFX, and switched to modeling for term 5 & 6 because the vfx program was useless. As colesslaw says, there are no compositing classes for the first three terms (which is when 90% of the classes take place).
For compositing, I think I would look into Lost Boys.
pentexplorer
04-09-2009, 02:08 PM
Well, I'm talking from experience, I took the course last year. I did term 4 in VFX, and switched to modeling for term 5 & 6 because the vfx program was useless. As colesslaw says, there are no compositing classes for the first three terms (which is when 90% of the classes take place).
For compositing, I think I would look into Lost Boys.
Woah I would like to know more about your vfx stream experience coz saying the program useless when so many people have come through it with outstanding reels puzzles me. And I believe your mentor was Alastair Macleod who I heard is an amazing guy.
Btw, any Nuke or Fusion compositing taught in the VFX stream? Or could anyone give a rough breakdown of how the VFX stream is taught in term4 and 5
For compositing, I think I would look into Lost Boys.
Woah I would like to know more about your vfx stream experience coz saying the program useless when so many people have come through it with outstanding reels puzzles me. And I believe your mentor was Alastair Macleod who I heard is an amazing guy.
Btw, any Nuke or Fusion compositing taught in the VFX stream? Or could anyone give a rough breakdown of how the VFX stream is taught in term4 and 5
eldee
04-10-2009, 03:41 AM
Btw, any Nuke or Fusion compositing taught in the VFX stream? Or could anyone give a rough breakdown of how the VFX stream is taught in term4 and 5
the VFX stream right now is far from useless (I can't speak for the past).. Brent Greening is the VFX mentor, and he is outstanding.. I can't say enough good things about his level of expertise and the knowledge he brings to the stream. There's also a push to get VFX taught earlier on, especially key things like camera training and compositing- it hasn't happened just yet, but they have started doing some camera training classes in term four.
Regarding your other questions- they've started teaching Nuke as the primary compositor of choice fairly recently, before that I think it was after effects. In term four, for the VFX class, you're mostly just working on one assignment for the entire term- the infamous 'spider assignment'. The end goal is to have a CG element fully integrated and lit with a live plate. Along the way you learn how to shoot HDRI with a chrome ball, how to do tracking (we learned with Maya Live, but Brent was talking about trying to get some PFTrack licenses- the school only has a single boujou license right now), compositing, and finally integration and color correction. Term five is mostly spent busting your ass getting a demo reel put together :P
the VFX stream right now is far from useless (I can't speak for the past).. Brent Greening is the VFX mentor, and he is outstanding.. I can't say enough good things about his level of expertise and the knowledge he brings to the stream. There's also a push to get VFX taught earlier on, especially key things like camera training and compositing- it hasn't happened just yet, but they have started doing some camera training classes in term four.
Regarding your other questions- they've started teaching Nuke as the primary compositor of choice fairly recently, before that I think it was after effects. In term four, for the VFX class, you're mostly just working on one assignment for the entire term- the infamous 'spider assignment'. The end goal is to have a CG element fully integrated and lit with a live plate. Along the way you learn how to shoot HDRI with a chrome ball, how to do tracking (we learned with Maya Live, but Brent was talking about trying to get some PFTrack licenses- the school only has a single boujou license right now), compositing, and finally integration and color correction. Term five is mostly spent busting your ass getting a demo reel put together :P
pentexplorer
04-10-2009, 01:24 PM
the VFX stream right now is far from useless (I can't speak for the past).. Brent Greening is the VFX mentor, and he is outstanding.. I can't say enough good things about his level of expertise and the knowledge he brings to the stream. There's also a push to get VFX taught earlier on, especially key things like camera training and compositing- it hasn't happened just yet, but they have started doing some camera training classes in term four.
Regarding your other questions- they've started teaching Nuke as the primary compositor of choice fairly recently, before that I think it was after effects. In term four, for the VFX class, you're mostly just working on one assignment for the entire term- the infamous 'spider assignment'. The end goal is to have a CG element fully integrated and lit with a live plate. Along the way you learn how to shoot HDRI with a chrome ball, how to do tracking (we learned with Maya Live, but Brent was talking about trying to get some PFTrack licenses- the school only has a single boujou license right now), compositing, and finally integration and color correction. Term five is mostly spent busting your ass getting a demo reel put together :P
Thats exactly what I wanted to hear like knowing whats happening in the VFX stream currently..coz I get a lot of people talking on whats happening in the first 3 terms instead. As for the spider assignment, you going to do that as a project based learning something like what Lost Boys do? Thats good to hear VFS are doing it too. Didnt know they got on to Nuke...they sort of trained in After Effects all the way from what I heard. I believe I saw a spider crawling up on a woman head VFX reel on VFXTalk.com...perhaps thats the project assignment everyone has to do now.
Regarding your other questions- they've started teaching Nuke as the primary compositor of choice fairly recently, before that I think it was after effects. In term four, for the VFX class, you're mostly just working on one assignment for the entire term- the infamous 'spider assignment'. The end goal is to have a CG element fully integrated and lit with a live plate. Along the way you learn how to shoot HDRI with a chrome ball, how to do tracking (we learned with Maya Live, but Brent was talking about trying to get some PFTrack licenses- the school only has a single boujou license right now), compositing, and finally integration and color correction. Term five is mostly spent busting your ass getting a demo reel put together :P
Thats exactly what I wanted to hear like knowing whats happening in the VFX stream currently..coz I get a lot of people talking on whats happening in the first 3 terms instead. As for the spider assignment, you going to do that as a project based learning something like what Lost Boys do? Thats good to hear VFS are doing it too. Didnt know they got on to Nuke...they sort of trained in After Effects all the way from what I heard. I believe I saw a spider crawling up on a woman head VFX reel on VFXTalk.com...perhaps thats the project assignment everyone has to do now.
eldee
04-10-2009, 11:57 PM
I believe I saw a spider crawling up on a woman head VFX reel on VFXTalk.com...perhaps thats the project assignment everyone has to do now.
Actually a couple of terms ago somebody actually did a spider VFX reel, that's probably the one you're talking about. The spider assignment isn't quite as elaborate as that, since you only have about a month to do it (and that's in addition to your normal workload, including demo-reel related stuff), but you learn a ton by doing it and it looks pretty cool when it's done. Also- the spider we use in the spider assignment (currently) is robotic.. it's much easier to animate and integrate it that way.
BUT- one thing I will warn you about is that people are right when they talk about terms 1-3 being mostly irrelevant for VFX students. I mean, you need to know a lot of the stuff in terms 1-3, because without knowing how to model or animate, your VFX reel is going to be very empty.. but still. It's rough, when term four starts you're swimming in shark infested waters. They recently switched the main curriculum from XSI to Maya- but for our class, most of the VFX guys had been using XSI up until term four. So as soon as the term started, it was bombardment- switching to maya, learning nuke, camera training, shot planning (for tracking/markers, etc), compositing basics (the stuff taught in term 3 is VERY rudimentary.. almost laughable unfortunately). But if you're prepared for it, it's still a very good program and you can walk away with an amazing reel if you're willing to put in the hours necessary to complete it.
Actually a couple of terms ago somebody actually did a spider VFX reel, that's probably the one you're talking about. The spider assignment isn't quite as elaborate as that, since you only have about a month to do it (and that's in addition to your normal workload, including demo-reel related stuff), but you learn a ton by doing it and it looks pretty cool when it's done. Also- the spider we use in the spider assignment (currently) is robotic.. it's much easier to animate and integrate it that way.
BUT- one thing I will warn you about is that people are right when they talk about terms 1-3 being mostly irrelevant for VFX students. I mean, you need to know a lot of the stuff in terms 1-3, because without knowing how to model or animate, your VFX reel is going to be very empty.. but still. It's rough, when term four starts you're swimming in shark infested waters. They recently switched the main curriculum from XSI to Maya- but for our class, most of the VFX guys had been using XSI up until term four. So as soon as the term started, it was bombardment- switching to maya, learning nuke, camera training, shot planning (for tracking/markers, etc), compositing basics (the stuff taught in term 3 is VERY rudimentary.. almost laughable unfortunately). But if you're prepared for it, it's still a very good program and you can walk away with an amazing reel if you're willing to put in the hours necessary to complete it.
pentexplorer
04-11-2009, 08:39 PM
Actually a couple of terms ago somebody actually did a spider VFX reel, that's probably the one you're talking about. The spider assignment isn't quite as elaborate as that, since you only have about a month to do it (and that's in addition to your normal workload, including demo-reel related stuff), but you learn a ton by doing it and it looks pretty cool when it's done. Also- the spider we use in the spider assignment (currently) is robotic.. it's much easier to animate and integrate it that way.
BUT- one thing I will warn you about is that people are right when they talk about terms 1-3 being mostly irrelevant for VFX students. I mean, you need to know a lot of the stuff in terms 1-3, because without knowing how to model or animate, your VFX reel is going to be very empty.. but still. It's rough, when term four starts you're swimming in shark infested waters. They recently switched the main curriculum from XSI to Maya- but for our class, most of the VFX guys had been using XSI up until term four. So as soon as the term started, it was bombardment- switching to maya, learning nuke, camera training, shot planning (for tracking/markers, etc), compositing basics (the stuff taught in term 3 is VERY rudimentary.. almost laughable unfortunately). But if you're prepared for it, it's still a very good program and you can walk away with an amazing reel if you're willing to put in the hours necessary to complete it.
Ah yeah thats probably the reel I was talking about. I applied to VFS and got accepted for the October intake together with SCAD. Just would like to ask..so the school changed from XSI to Maya now for the entire year? I think the past few years they been teaching XSI primarily and VFX students will have to relearn to Maya in the VFX stream. What kind of modelling exercises are we introduced in the first few terms? Character/face modelling? Hard surface modelling etc? Is it more project based kind of learning or tutorial step step talking from the lecturers? And I heard theres a lot of classical animation classes for the first 3 terms. I am bad in my traditional studies so hope the first three terms will brush me up on drawing,color theory etc
BUT- one thing I will warn you about is that people are right when they talk about terms 1-3 being mostly irrelevant for VFX students. I mean, you need to know a lot of the stuff in terms 1-3, because without knowing how to model or animate, your VFX reel is going to be very empty.. but still. It's rough, when term four starts you're swimming in shark infested waters. They recently switched the main curriculum from XSI to Maya- but for our class, most of the VFX guys had been using XSI up until term four. So as soon as the term started, it was bombardment- switching to maya, learning nuke, camera training, shot planning (for tracking/markers, etc), compositing basics (the stuff taught in term 3 is VERY rudimentary.. almost laughable unfortunately). But if you're prepared for it, it's still a very good program and you can walk away with an amazing reel if you're willing to put in the hours necessary to complete it.
Ah yeah thats probably the reel I was talking about. I applied to VFS and got accepted for the October intake together with SCAD. Just would like to ask..so the school changed from XSI to Maya now for the entire year? I think the past few years they been teaching XSI primarily and VFX students will have to relearn to Maya in the VFX stream. What kind of modelling exercises are we introduced in the first few terms? Character/face modelling? Hard surface modelling etc? Is it more project based kind of learning or tutorial step step talking from the lecturers? And I heard theres a lot of classical animation classes for the first 3 terms. I am bad in my traditional studies so hope the first three terms will brush me up on drawing,color theory etc
eldee
04-12-2009, 10:56 PM
as far as modeling goes, the first three terms covers everything from hard surfaces to human anatomy. By term four, the modeling classes are mostly covering advanced lighting and shading, although some additional modeling techniques are introduced (such as matching an environment from a single concept painting). The life drawing classes are the most important classical classes in the first two terms, the composition class is a bit basic, and the classical animation classes are largely irrelevant (I personally don't see why fundamental concepts like squash and stretch can't be taught in 3D, but then again i'm not an animator).
fiftypercent
04-12-2009, 11:19 PM
this is a short video i made... pay attention mostly to the nightcrawler effect because the other effects arent basically up to par lol.... but here u go
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BJiO-PCjic
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6BJiO-PCjic
eldee
04-13-2009, 05:48 AM
uh.. good job, but spamming multiple threads with your video isn't going to make you any friends.
googboog8
04-13-2009, 07:29 AM
as far as modeling goes, the first three terms covers everything from hard surfaces to human anatomy. By term four, the modeling classes are mostly covering advanced lighting and shading, although some additional modeling techniques are introduced (such as matching an environment from a single concept painting). The life drawing classes are the most important classical classes in the first two terms, the composition class is a bit basic, and the classical animation classes are largely irrelevant (I personally don't see why fundamental concepts like squash and stretch can't be taught in 3D, but then again i'm not an animator).
thank god..
it's bad enough i have to deal with T Dank o witch... i dont need any more competition
thank god..
it's bad enough i have to deal with T Dank o witch... i dont need any more competition
eldee
04-13-2009, 07:39 AM
thank god..
it's bad enough i have to deal with T Dank o witch... i dont need any more competition
That's not to say I can't animate, but it's definitely not my primary area of interest ;)
your jobs are safe... for now. muahahaa
it's bad enough i have to deal with T Dank o witch... i dont need any more competition
That's not to say I can't animate, but it's definitely not my primary area of interest ;)
your jobs are safe... for now. muahahaa
pentexplorer
04-13-2009, 07:49 AM
as far as modeling goes, the first three terms covers everything from hard surfaces to human anatomy. By term four, the modeling classes are mostly covering advanced lighting and shading, although some additional modeling techniques are introduced (such as matching an environment from a single concept painting). The life drawing classes are the most important classical classes in the first two terms, the composition class is a bit basic, and the classical animation classes are largely irrelevant (I personally don't see why fundamental concepts like squash and stretch can't be taught in 3D, but then again i'm not an animator).
thanks..thats great...yeah I do hear a lot saying the classical animation classes were sort of irrelevant. which batch were u in? last year's? I am keen on doing the VFX stream.
thanks..thats great...yeah I do hear a lot saying the classical animation classes were sort of irrelevant. which batch were u in? last year's? I am keen on doing the VFX stream.
greyface
04-16-2009, 01:42 AM
Things change really fast: in my year at vfs (2008), at least 6 out of the 10 or so staff members who taught us were replaced. The current vfx mentor (Brent) knows his stuff, but the problem isn't really with the staff, but more so the way the school operates. You have to realize that half of the year is spent working on your demo, and so there are only 6 months of full time classes, the first month being focused mostly on 2D. That doesn't leave much time to get from "what is a polygon?" to "How do I comp my fully rigged creature in this handheld shot?"
Compositing is taught in Nuke (a good thing) - but to give you an example: in term 4, when I took the vfx stream, we only had a single class of compositing per week, and because the teacher was not full time (he was working on a film production), he would sometimes arrive an hour late, or not at all. So we ended up only having 4 or 5 classes total. There were no tracking classes, very little shader stuff (that was mostly in the modeling stream), and very little rigging (mostly taught in term 2-3).
The mentors might really know their stuff, but whether they are good teachers is a different story.
I remember one of our vfx classes where we would just be given tutorials to do - that's not acceptable for the price we pay.
Compositing is taught in Nuke (a good thing) - but to give you an example: in term 4, when I took the vfx stream, we only had a single class of compositing per week, and because the teacher was not full time (he was working on a film production), he would sometimes arrive an hour late, or not at all. So we ended up only having 4 or 5 classes total. There were no tracking classes, very little shader stuff (that was mostly in the modeling stream), and very little rigging (mostly taught in term 2-3).
The mentors might really know their stuff, but whether they are good teachers is a different story.
I remember one of our vfx classes where we would just be given tutorials to do - that's not acceptable for the price we pay.
Fredemanden
04-16-2009, 06:24 PM
Hmm sounds like I should have read this more carefully...
Have been quite lazy at keeping up with what I learning some time ago now. Gonna be a tough year it seems!
Anyway, starting at VFS may '09 too. Still looking for a place to stay - anyone interested in sharing a place, plz think of me :)
Have been quite lazy at keeping up with what I learning some time ago now. Gonna be a tough year it seems!
Anyway, starting at VFS may '09 too. Still looking for a place to stay - anyone interested in sharing a place, plz think of me :)
hexygen
04-27-2009, 10:13 AM
Hey guys, I just have to say in my opinion the classical animation courses are invaluable!
With all due respect to Magic's 3D Animation classes (which are usually very good), most of what you learn is rigging and operating the software (whether it's XSI or Maya), which some of the students have to deal with for the first time so you can't get very far past the technical stuff. You do have a bit of process and the principles of animation but it really wouldn't be enough without the classical animation courses.
Animation is not about moving stuff on the X, Y, or Z axis. It's about what is a keyframe, what is an in-between, what is a pose and those stuff are the same no matter what the medium is. They are however easier to learn by drawing stick figures than by dealing with models, rigs, controls, curve editor and ton of other concepts you have to learn technically before you start actually animating.
@Alexis:
I agree the program is pretty tight and there's not a lot of time to go from what is a polygon to rigging, animating rendering and comping your shot, but I personally think they have a really strong program considering the timeframe. The people who work hard usually do very well, and I think it's more due to the assignments and the constant feedback than the teachers and the frontal classes. If you take your assignments seriously you can get very far.
With all due respect to Magic's 3D Animation classes (which are usually very good), most of what you learn is rigging and operating the software (whether it's XSI or Maya), which some of the students have to deal with for the first time so you can't get very far past the technical stuff. You do have a bit of process and the principles of animation but it really wouldn't be enough without the classical animation courses.
Animation is not about moving stuff on the X, Y, or Z axis. It's about what is a keyframe, what is an in-between, what is a pose and those stuff are the same no matter what the medium is. They are however easier to learn by drawing stick figures than by dealing with models, rigs, controls, curve editor and ton of other concepts you have to learn technically before you start actually animating.
@Alexis:
I agree the program is pretty tight and there's not a lot of time to go from what is a polygon to rigging, animating rendering and comping your shot, but I personally think they have a really strong program considering the timeframe. The people who work hard usually do very well, and I think it's more due to the assignments and the constant feedback than the teachers and the frontal classes. If you take your assignments seriously you can get very far.
Zoober
04-28-2009, 12:35 AM
Can anyone tell me who the main 3 Mentors are now?
googboog8
04-28-2009, 01:11 AM
Can anyone tell me who the main 3 Mentors are now?
travis guthrie
brent greening
and morgan ratsoy (who's replacing sarah hill from next week) she's taking a year off to work fulltime on a project
travis guthrie
brent greening
and morgan ratsoy (who's replacing sarah hill from next week) she's taking a year off to work fulltime on a project
pentexplorer
04-28-2009, 08:18 AM
Anyone attending the October 09 intake? VFS intakes are taken up pretty fast. Even the Mar2010 intake is already full.
DagMX
04-28-2009, 08:19 AM
Anyone attending the October 09 intake? VFS intakes are taken up pretty fast. Even the Mar2010 intake is already full.
I'll be starting thr 3D program in october 09. Finishing foundation by end august.
I'll be starting thr 3D program in october 09. Finishing foundation by end august.
Zoober
04-28-2009, 04:59 PM
travis guthrie
brent greening
and morgan ratsoy (who's replacing sarah hill from next week) she's taking a year off to work fulltime on a project
Thanks!
.
brent greening
and morgan ratsoy (who's replacing sarah hill from next week) she's taking a year off to work fulltime on a project
Thanks!
.
smelhill
05-06-2009, 04:48 AM
Ahh Zoober, long time no talk!
(Sarah Hill here!)To make it clear; I was offered a lead position animating on a Feature film for Warner Bros. Europe.( Title forthcoming..shhhh)
Its such a great opportunity so; time to go back and animate for a year...and I am very excited. I usually did one freelance job a year while mentoring, but it was hard to focus on both jobs properly. So I am well ready to give my 100% attention to the craft of animation which I love very much!
VFS is a great school, mainly because people with great talent attend. Its been such an honor and a privilege to be a part of the journey students take, and I know I will be happy to go back!
cheers y' all and happy animating!
(Sarah Hill here!)To make it clear; I was offered a lead position animating on a Feature film for Warner Bros. Europe.( Title forthcoming..shhhh)
Its such a great opportunity so; time to go back and animate for a year...and I am very excited. I usually did one freelance job a year while mentoring, but it was hard to focus on both jobs properly. So I am well ready to give my 100% attention to the craft of animation which I love very much!
VFS is a great school, mainly because people with great talent attend. Its been such an honor and a privilege to be a part of the journey students take, and I know I will be happy to go back!
cheers y' all and happy animating!
jokerku
05-06-2009, 09:34 AM
Hi everyone,
I am thinking about going to VFS for the Animation & Effects program. From what I have read in the previous posts along with my research, it seems like a nice place to push myself to the next level. But does anyone know the job placement rate of the school? And for those who have already being there, what are your experiences in finding a job after the program? (perticularly for character Animators) And what is the school's role in career development? Maybe Im getting ahead of myself, but I would like to be prepared for the harsh reality. Thanks.
I am thinking about going to VFS for the Animation & Effects program. From what I have read in the previous posts along with my research, it seems like a nice place to push myself to the next level. But does anyone know the job placement rate of the school? And for those who have already being there, what are your experiences in finding a job after the program? (perticularly for character Animators) And what is the school's role in career development? Maybe Im getting ahead of myself, but I would like to be prepared for the harsh reality. Thanks.
eldee
05-06-2009, 03:27 PM
Hi everyone,
I am thinking about going to VFS for the Animation & Effects program. From what I have read in the previous posts along with my research, it seems like a nice place to push myself to the next level. But does anyone know the job placement rate of the school? And for those who have already being there, what are your experiences in finding a job after the program? (perticularly for character Animators) And what is the school's role in career development? Maybe Im getting ahead of myself, but I would like to be prepared for the harsh reality. Thanks.
long story short.. they teach you how to animate/model/whatever, you get yourself a job.
In term 6 there are a couple of classes that focus on basic interview skills, resume stuff, etc and there is also a job board on the VFS alumni site. But other than publishing your reel on youtube, that's about the extent of it, ultimately you will have to find your own job- and the placement rate is all over the place. The industry has it's ups and downs, and right now it's down so many people aren't getting hired (but it's expected to swing back up again by the end of the summer). Add to that the fact that the quality of demo reels coming out of VFS can be great, or they can be very poor (you never see the bad ones, but trust me there are some VERY bad ones) so that can skew the survey results as well. If you are good at what you do, you will eventually find a job. If you're the best at what you do, you will find a job even faster.
I am thinking about going to VFS for the Animation & Effects program. From what I have read in the previous posts along with my research, it seems like a nice place to push myself to the next level. But does anyone know the job placement rate of the school? And for those who have already being there, what are your experiences in finding a job after the program? (perticularly for character Animators) And what is the school's role in career development? Maybe Im getting ahead of myself, but I would like to be prepared for the harsh reality. Thanks.
long story short.. they teach you how to animate/model/whatever, you get yourself a job.
In term 6 there are a couple of classes that focus on basic interview skills, resume stuff, etc and there is also a job board on the VFS alumni site. But other than publishing your reel on youtube, that's about the extent of it, ultimately you will have to find your own job- and the placement rate is all over the place. The industry has it's ups and downs, and right now it's down so many people aren't getting hired (but it's expected to swing back up again by the end of the summer). Add to that the fact that the quality of demo reels coming out of VFS can be great, or they can be very poor (you never see the bad ones, but trust me there are some VERY bad ones) so that can skew the survey results as well. If you are good at what you do, you will eventually find a job. If you're the best at what you do, you will find a job even faster.
MaeflowerJ
05-06-2009, 10:51 PM
A heads up for anyone applying...
After you apply and pay the $200 fee, if you're accepted (if you've ever touched a pencil you will be) you have 2 weeks to pay a 5% down payment to secure your spot (They'll try to rush you and say that seats are filling up fast). No one will tell you that it is NOT REFUNDABLE. In the 3D program, it equates to about $2500. Then, after a few more weeks they're going to pressure you to pay $5,000 more. Then of course full tuition is due a month before classes start.
In the event you don't end up going (say, you can't find financial aid or your cosigner falls through), they keep your $2500, plus another $500 just for the heck of it. They'll tell you that you have a year to decide if you want to re-enroll, at which point they'll give you the "discount"(down-payment) toward your tuition. Otherwise, after a year it's gone completely.
VFS looks like a great school, and I have no doubt that I would have been great there... but the pressure and the rush ended up screwing me over. I guess they just like to take advantage of Americans. They didn't tell me at the beginning that I couldn't even apply for any financial aid. The best I can do is a private loan (which I have no way of qualifying for).
I'm not trying to start anything, or put the school down. I'm just sending out a warning to prospective students to be sure you know what you're doing before you ever apply. I applied first, thinking once I knew if I was even accepted I would figure things out. But that proved to be a huge mistake. So, just be sure you have a whole plan set out and do your homework on the financial situation before even thinking about applying. I don't want anyone else to end up as bad as I did.
After you apply and pay the $200 fee, if you're accepted (if you've ever touched a pencil you will be) you have 2 weeks to pay a 5% down payment to secure your spot (They'll try to rush you and say that seats are filling up fast). No one will tell you that it is NOT REFUNDABLE. In the 3D program, it equates to about $2500. Then, after a few more weeks they're going to pressure you to pay $5,000 more. Then of course full tuition is due a month before classes start.
In the event you don't end up going (say, you can't find financial aid or your cosigner falls through), they keep your $2500, plus another $500 just for the heck of it. They'll tell you that you have a year to decide if you want to re-enroll, at which point they'll give you the "discount"(down-payment) toward your tuition. Otherwise, after a year it's gone completely.
VFS looks like a great school, and I have no doubt that I would have been great there... but the pressure and the rush ended up screwing me over. I guess they just like to take advantage of Americans. They didn't tell me at the beginning that I couldn't even apply for any financial aid. The best I can do is a private loan (which I have no way of qualifying for).
I'm not trying to start anything, or put the school down. I'm just sending out a warning to prospective students to be sure you know what you're doing before you ever apply. I applied first, thinking once I knew if I was even accepted I would figure things out. But that proved to be a huge mistake. So, just be sure you have a whole plan set out and do your homework on the financial situation before even thinking about applying. I don't want anyone else to end up as bad as I did.
Zoober
05-06-2009, 11:03 PM
A heads up for anyone applying...
After you apply and pay the $200 fee, if you're accepted (if you've ever touched a pencil you will be) you have 2 weeks to pay a 5% down payment to secure your spot (They'll try to rush you and say that seats are filling up fast). No one will tell you that it is NOT REFUNDABLE. In the 3D program, it equates to about $2500. Then, after a few more weeks they're going to pressure you to pay $5,000 more. Then of course full tuition is due a month before classes start.
In the event you don't end up going (say, you can't find financial aid or your cosigner falls through), they keep your $2500, plus another $500 just for the heck of it. They'll tell you that you have a year to decide if you want to re-enroll, at which point they'll give you the "discount"(down-payment) toward your tuition. Otherwise, after a year it's gone completely.
VFS looks like a great school, and I have no doubt that I would have been great there... but the pressure and the rush ended up screwing me over. I guess they just like to take advantage of Americans. They didn't tell me at the beginning that I couldn't even apply for any financial aid. The best I can do is a private loan (which I have no way of qualifying for).
I'm not trying to start anything, or put the school down. I'm just sending out a warning to prospective students to be sure you know what you're doing before you ever apply. I applied first, thinking once I knew if I was even accepted I would figure things out. But that proved to be a huge mistake. So, just be sure you have a whole plan set out and do your homework on the financial situation before even thinking about applying. I don't want anyone else to end up as bad as I did.
Non-refundable deposits are quite common with international study. I would recommend to anyone that they research their funding requirements prior to putting a deposit down to secure a seat.
After you apply and pay the $200 fee, if you're accepted (if you've ever touched a pencil you will be) you have 2 weeks to pay a 5% down payment to secure your spot (They'll try to rush you and say that seats are filling up fast). No one will tell you that it is NOT REFUNDABLE. In the 3D program, it equates to about $2500. Then, after a few more weeks they're going to pressure you to pay $5,000 more. Then of course full tuition is due a month before classes start.
In the event you don't end up going (say, you can't find financial aid or your cosigner falls through), they keep your $2500, plus another $500 just for the heck of it. They'll tell you that you have a year to decide if you want to re-enroll, at which point they'll give you the "discount"(down-payment) toward your tuition. Otherwise, after a year it's gone completely.
VFS looks like a great school, and I have no doubt that I would have been great there... but the pressure and the rush ended up screwing me over. I guess they just like to take advantage of Americans. They didn't tell me at the beginning that I couldn't even apply for any financial aid. The best I can do is a private loan (which I have no way of qualifying for).
I'm not trying to start anything, or put the school down. I'm just sending out a warning to prospective students to be sure you know what you're doing before you ever apply. I applied first, thinking once I knew if I was even accepted I would figure things out. But that proved to be a huge mistake. So, just be sure you have a whole plan set out and do your homework on the financial situation before even thinking about applying. I don't want anyone else to end up as bad as I did.
Non-refundable deposits are quite common with international study. I would recommend to anyone that they research their funding requirements prior to putting a deposit down to secure a seat.
jsweddington
05-10-2009, 04:22 AM
In my case I secured the loan before even applying which to my amazement they told me was the opposite of what is typical but in my opinion seems the smart thing to do. Otherwise you are wasting money if in the end you are accepted but cannot secure the funding to go.
A heads up for anyone applying...
After you apply and pay the $200 fee, if you're accepted (if you've ever touched a pencil you will be) you have 2 weeks to pay a 5% down payment to secure your spot (They'll try to rush you and say that seats are filling up fast). No one will tell you that it is NOT REFUNDABLE. In the 3D program, it equates to about $2500. Then, after a few more weeks they're going to pressure you to pay $5,000 more. Then of course full tuition is due a month before classes start.
In the event you don't end up going (say, you can't find financial aid or your cosigner falls through), they keep your $2500, plus another $500 just for the heck of it. They'll tell you that you have a year to decide if you want to re-enroll, at which point they'll give you the "discount"(down-payment) toward your tuition. Otherwise, after a year it's gone completely.
VFS looks like a great school, and I have no doubt that I would have been great there... but the pressure and the rush ended up screwing me over. I guess they just like to take advantage of Americans. They didn't tell me at the beginning that I couldn't even apply for any financial aid. The best I can do is a private loan (which I have no way of qualifying for).
I'm not trying to start anything, or put the school down. I'm just sending out a warning to prospective students to be sure you know what you're doing before you ever apply. I applied first, thinking once I knew if I was even accepted I would figure things out. But that proved to be a huge mistake. So, just be sure you have a whole plan set out and do your homework on the financial situation before even thinking about applying. I don't want anyone else to end up as bad as I did.
A heads up for anyone applying...
After you apply and pay the $200 fee, if you're accepted (if you've ever touched a pencil you will be) you have 2 weeks to pay a 5% down payment to secure your spot (They'll try to rush you and say that seats are filling up fast). No one will tell you that it is NOT REFUNDABLE. In the 3D program, it equates to about $2500. Then, after a few more weeks they're going to pressure you to pay $5,000 more. Then of course full tuition is due a month before classes start.
In the event you don't end up going (say, you can't find financial aid or your cosigner falls through), they keep your $2500, plus another $500 just for the heck of it. They'll tell you that you have a year to decide if you want to re-enroll, at which point they'll give you the "discount"(down-payment) toward your tuition. Otherwise, after a year it's gone completely.
VFS looks like a great school, and I have no doubt that I would have been great there... but the pressure and the rush ended up screwing me over. I guess they just like to take advantage of Americans. They didn't tell me at the beginning that I couldn't even apply for any financial aid. The best I can do is a private loan (which I have no way of qualifying for).
I'm not trying to start anything, or put the school down. I'm just sending out a warning to prospective students to be sure you know what you're doing before you ever apply. I applied first, thinking once I knew if I was even accepted I would figure things out. But that proved to be a huge mistake. So, just be sure you have a whole plan set out and do your homework on the financial situation before even thinking about applying. I don't want anyone else to end up as bad as I did.
eldee
05-10-2009, 10:58 PM
In my case I secured the loan before even applying which to my amazement they told me was the opposite of what is typical but in my opinion seems the smart thing to do. Otherwise you are wasting money if in the end you are accepted but cannot secure the funding to go.
agreed, I did the same. plus my application fee was waived because I applied while I was at a film festival where they were set up (SXSW 2007). That's something else- if you're planning on applying anyway, check the VFS tour dates and see when they're going to be set up near you, it might save you a couple hundred bucks if nothing else :P
agreed, I did the same. plus my application fee was waived because I applied while I was at a film festival where they were set up (SXSW 2007). That's something else- if you're planning on applying anyway, check the VFS tour dates and see when they're going to be set up near you, it might save you a couple hundred bucks if nothing else :P
NetMapel
05-20-2009, 09:23 PM
Just wanted to say hi to everybody. I took a 3D program summer camp at VFS about 6 years ago when I was still in high school and found 3D animations to be extremely enjoyable. However, at that time, I did not think that would be something I'd pursue as a career so I graduated from high school and went on to a a university studying business/accounting. I did well in the accounting program but still remained fascinated by 3D animation whenever I see a new Pixar movie and what not. I make sure I always watch its Making-Of portion of all Pixar's DVDs and consider it to be just as valuable as the film itself.
Well, now I've worked about a year as an accountant and am considering going back to VFS for its 3D animation & visual effects program. My drawing skill is a bit rusty but I got a handle of Maya fairly quickly. I watched the tutorial videos and made a bouncing ball in a matter of minutes. I'm excited at this potential opportunity to return to 3D animation :) I have read through about half of this topic already and understand that it will be hard work in this program. I must thank you guys all for being informative in this topic because I didn't think it would be easy to go into VFS for a year and produce amazing reels that I saw on youtube.
It is possible that I'll be put into the June 09 session, depending on potential spot opening up in that class. If not, I'll start in May 2010. In fact, I may prefer the later start date of May 2010 because I will now have the time to take part time courses elsewhere to hone up my classical drawings. After much research, I have concluded that both modeling or animating streams will require a solid 2D background (life drawing or 2D animation). I want to be completely prepared prior to dropping the big bucks at VFS in order to maximize my return of investment there. I am very relived to be accepted by VFS so I look forward to seeing potential classmates in May 2010 :) I just figured I'd drop by here and say hi !
Well, now I've worked about a year as an accountant and am considering going back to VFS for its 3D animation & visual effects program. My drawing skill is a bit rusty but I got a handle of Maya fairly quickly. I watched the tutorial videos and made a bouncing ball in a matter of minutes. I'm excited at this potential opportunity to return to 3D animation :) I have read through about half of this topic already and understand that it will be hard work in this program. I must thank you guys all for being informative in this topic because I didn't think it would be easy to go into VFS for a year and produce amazing reels that I saw on youtube.
It is possible that I'll be put into the June 09 session, depending on potential spot opening up in that class. If not, I'll start in May 2010. In fact, I may prefer the later start date of May 2010 because I will now have the time to take part time courses elsewhere to hone up my classical drawings. After much research, I have concluded that both modeling or animating streams will require a solid 2D background (life drawing or 2D animation). I want to be completely prepared prior to dropping the big bucks at VFS in order to maximize my return of investment there. I am very relived to be accepted by VFS so I look forward to seeing potential classmates in May 2010 :) I just figured I'd drop by here and say hi !
Kskovbo
05-22-2009, 06:45 AM
There is a lot of classical drawing in term 1 and 2. You start from basics in both life drawing and classical animation.
jsweddington
05-23-2009, 07:08 PM
One thing to be ready for if you go to vfs is you will have minimal internet access from all but some old apple computers. Lately it has been a huge irritation to me. Trying to learn Zbrush very few people in the school can help with it so you are left to your own searches. So what does one do but go to the helpfiles...which take you to zbrush.info...which is currently blocked. (I should clarify the school IS teaching Zbrush now and the instructor for that class does and has come by many times to help when he can. Unfortunately it was added for the terms I have already completed. Zbrush.info is no longer blocked and Al is working very hard to solve the other issues.)
They made a Whitelist submission page last term but the submitted links are never added unless you make a big stink. It took me emails to the heads of 3d just to get wikipedia unblocked after it had sat in the whitelist submission for months.
I have tried to see it from their viewpoint of not wanting computers to get bogged down by spyware or viruses but ...it just doesn't make sense.
Anyways something to think about if you are coming to or thinking about VFS.
They made a Whitelist submission page last term but the submitted links are never added unless you make a big stink. It took me emails to the heads of 3d just to get wikipedia unblocked after it had sat in the whitelist submission for months.
I have tried to see it from their viewpoint of not wanting computers to get bogged down by spyware or viruses but ...it just doesn't make sense.
Anyways something to think about if you are coming to or thinking about VFS.
Kskovbo
05-23-2009, 07:41 PM
bring your own laptop?
jsweddington
05-23-2009, 08:02 PM
you can do that. The wireless access is often flakey plus desktop space is at a premium. Plus carrying a bag with a heavy laptop, Wacom tablet amongst other things gets rather heavy..Seems a bit..much to be forced to do for the cost.
my7hai
05-24-2009, 05:39 AM
...
its a working environment.
if u want to surf the internet u can do that at home.
i am currently at the vfs, and it is awesome.
its a working environment.
if u want to surf the internet u can do that at home.
i am currently at the vfs, and it is awesome.
jsweddington
05-24-2009, 06:50 AM
Re-read my post. Not trying to surf.
my7hai
05-24-2009, 07:02 AM
tell the it deprartment that a helpfile is blocked and the problem solved in a minute.
googboog8
05-24-2009, 07:05 AM
jim you can use ultrasurf or polysolve...
jsweddington
05-24-2009, 07:08 AM
Yea I know. But Al and Vanessa have asked us to not use that. So I am keeping with their rules. I know a lot of people are using Ultrasurf but it seems silly and only adds to the frustration to break the rules just to get my work done.
Thankfully in a sarcastic way I am home sick with something (swine flu perhaps?) and am poring over the zbrush.info site in the periods I am awake. It also seems you can download much of the helpfile documentation and install it onto the computer with Zbrush and basically make the helpfile docs offline.
Also setting up the laptop at home for remote connections. Should be able to open RDP at school and then will have unfettered internet access and break none of those rules.
and to My7hai I wish it were that simple. It is not. Zbrush.info was put on the whitelist a week ago. Nothing was done. It took months just to get wikipedia.org unblocked and many other sites that are very valid and were on the list before being cleared at the same time still are such as Rhythm and hues website which is unusual considering they had reps at the school last term that were directing many of our questions to their website.
Instead of trolling this thread feel free to come troll me at my desk in the antfarm this week. I will be happy to introduce you to my classmates and class reps who happen to agree with me. But of course they know what I am talking about.
Let's not turn this thread into a fight. I don't understand how I have offended you.
Thankfully in a sarcastic way I am home sick with something (swine flu perhaps?) and am poring over the zbrush.info site in the periods I am awake. It also seems you can download much of the helpfile documentation and install it onto the computer with Zbrush and basically make the helpfile docs offline.
Also setting up the laptop at home for remote connections. Should be able to open RDP at school and then will have unfettered internet access and break none of those rules.
and to My7hai I wish it were that simple. It is not. Zbrush.info was put on the whitelist a week ago. Nothing was done. It took months just to get wikipedia.org unblocked and many other sites that are very valid and were on the list before being cleared at the same time still are such as Rhythm and hues website which is unusual considering they had reps at the school last term that were directing many of our questions to their website.
Instead of trolling this thread feel free to come troll me at my desk in the antfarm this week. I will be happy to introduce you to my classmates and class reps who happen to agree with me. But of course they know what I am talking about.
Let's not turn this thread into a fight. I don't understand how I have offended you.
googboog8
05-24-2009, 07:15 AM
Yea I know. But Al and Vanessa have asked us to not use that. So I am keeping with their rules. I know a lot of people are using Ultrasurf but it seems silly and only adds to the frustration to break the rules just to get my work done.
Thankfully in a sarcastic way I am home sick with something (swine flu perhaps?) and am poring over the zbrush.info site in the periods I am awake. It also seems you can download much of the helpfile documentation and install it onto the computer with Zbrush and basically make the helpfile docs offline.
Also setting up the laptop at home for remote connections. Should be able to open RDP at school and then will have unfettered internet access and break none of those rules.
you can use it if it's for something useful, i'm pretty sure they wont have a problem if you're using it to get reference videos or browse zbrush tutorials.
i think the internet policy at vfs is a bit weird though, since some of the people who use the computers on the scholarship line have full access, while others have to use proxies and the like. seems unfair considering the amount of money we spent.
the wireless is too slow and unpredictable to depend on.
i think the reason they banned full internet access is that some guy (who is no longer with vfs) was caught downloading porno on to his computer.
pity...
Thankfully in a sarcastic way I am home sick with something (swine flu perhaps?) and am poring over the zbrush.info site in the periods I am awake. It also seems you can download much of the helpfile documentation and install it onto the computer with Zbrush and basically make the helpfile docs offline.
Also setting up the laptop at home for remote connections. Should be able to open RDP at school and then will have unfettered internet access and break none of those rules.
you can use it if it's for something useful, i'm pretty sure they wont have a problem if you're using it to get reference videos or browse zbrush tutorials.
i think the internet policy at vfs is a bit weird though, since some of the people who use the computers on the scholarship line have full access, while others have to use proxies and the like. seems unfair considering the amount of money we spent.
the wireless is too slow and unpredictable to depend on.
i think the reason they banned full internet access is that some guy (who is no longer with vfs) was caught downloading porno on to his computer.
pity...
jsweddington
05-24-2009, 07:30 AM
you can use it if it's for something useful, i'm pretty sure they wont have a problem if you're using it to get reference videos or browse zbrush tutorials.
i think the internet policy at vfs is a bit weird though, since some of the people who use the computers on the scholarship line have full access, while others have to use proxies and the like. seems unfair considering the amount of money we spent.
the wireless is too slow and unpredictable to depend on.
i think the reason they banned full internet access is that some guy (who is no longer with vfs) was caught downloading porno on to his computer.
pity...
Well we were told to not use it at all. something about destabilizing desktops (I don't buy that having been in IT for around 15 years before coming here) but I want to keep to the rules.
I talked with Al 2 terms ago and the reasoning seemed to be spyware and viruses. *shrug*
There are professionally and cheaply maintained blacklists that can be plugged into Squid (their proxy server) in 30 seconds. I told al about but that's when he mentioned the whitelist.
I think the school just needs to get over this and unblock it though. If someone downloads NSFW material then remove their net or kick them out of school. My tolerance of people using school computers or work computers for that kind of thing is really low anyway. The last place I worked for fired a guy for loading the sports illustrated.com swimsuit page.
That's the real world.
Sad to see the wireless is still acting up though. I tried it last term and found I got a stronger signal from the nebur king from Classroom 2 than I did the school. Pretty pathetic. Supposedly they had moved the wireless routers around to address the bad signal.
i think the internet policy at vfs is a bit weird though, since some of the people who use the computers on the scholarship line have full access, while others have to use proxies and the like. seems unfair considering the amount of money we spent.
the wireless is too slow and unpredictable to depend on.
i think the reason they banned full internet access is that some guy (who is no longer with vfs) was caught downloading porno on to his computer.
pity...
Well we were told to not use it at all. something about destabilizing desktops (I don't buy that having been in IT for around 15 years before coming here) but I want to keep to the rules.
I talked with Al 2 terms ago and the reasoning seemed to be spyware and viruses. *shrug*
There are professionally and cheaply maintained blacklists that can be plugged into Squid (their proxy server) in 30 seconds. I told al about but that's when he mentioned the whitelist.
I think the school just needs to get over this and unblock it though. If someone downloads NSFW material then remove their net or kick them out of school. My tolerance of people using school computers or work computers for that kind of thing is really low anyway. The last place I worked for fired a guy for loading the sports illustrated.com swimsuit page.
That's the real world.
Sad to see the wireless is still acting up though. I tried it last term and found I got a stronger signal from the nebur king from Classroom 2 than I did the school. Pretty pathetic. Supposedly they had moved the wireless routers around to address the bad signal.
almagesto
05-25-2009, 09:14 AM
hello guys!
now im at VFS, i found really helpful this thread when i had to decide if to go or not to VFS.
what i would like to write now is a general feedback after some weeks of school, hoping that might be helpful for some other people that r thinking about join the VFS 3D program.
let s start from the good things:
the school's organization look very good, the teachers right now are VERY good as personal knowledge and teaching too.
i would like to say that the 3D animation and 3D modeling teachers are very good, they know their stuff, they keep the class attention high. great.
what about the bad things then???
i am really disappointed about some things, i am not the only one as most of my classmates feel the same, and talking to other people in other 3d classes i had the same feedback about this:
1. DVD tutorials
2. Books
3. Pen tablets
4. render farm
let s go in order:
DVD tutorial / books - basically there are no dvd tutorial like Gnomon or digital tutors in the Resources room. how is this possible? when i talked to the advisor by the phone she told me there was a good resources room/library with dvds, tutorial etc so i expected them to have ALL the gnomon dvds, digital tutors and books like Ballistic / expose.
since day 1 everyone at VFS told us that in order to reach good skills and make a good reel we also have to learn stuff by ourself and by tutorials. i think "sounds good, i knew"...
but then when i went to see what they had as tutorial i was disappointed seeing that they dont have any DVD tutorial. should we just count on the online tutorials then? with the blocked internet connection btw...
what about the world's famous books like the Ballistic ones that are so good to look at, in terms of everything: ideas, concepts, 3d art etc...
really they dont have them. i couldnt belive that........
PEN TABLET - i asked for a pen tablet and they only have A6 size pen tablets!
how can people work on a A6 pen tablet? i mean of couse u can, but come on with all the money we pay for the school, should i work on a stamp-size pen tablet?
thanks God i wont go for the Modeling streaming, but can u imagine texturing for months and months on a A6 size tablet? of course u can, of course u can buy ur own one, but again.. with all the money we pay............................... and even if i got my own one A4 size at home, should i take it at school cause they cant afford to buy one?
RENDER FARM - why dont they have a DEDICATED render farm with cluster to render?
again for 50.000 per person - 1.500.000 per class, i think they can afford to buy it, as everyone would be happy and use it.....
so these r the bad things right now, i am just disappointed by that.
i am disappointed because i waited so many years to come here to VFS, it is a life money investment. and if i decided to join VFS is because i consider VFS THE TOP SCHOOL.
but these small problems (dvds,pen tablets, books) in my opinion really push the school down and make it looks cheap.
i am sure that if they had books, dvds etc people would use them, so why dont they have them?
i just wanted to let people know about these things as i think that when u pay ur fee u should know the "complete packaging" that the school got to offer to you.
said that, i really hope that the school can provide this material as soon as possible.
i look foreward to updated you with good news!
now im at VFS, i found really helpful this thread when i had to decide if to go or not to VFS.
what i would like to write now is a general feedback after some weeks of school, hoping that might be helpful for some other people that r thinking about join the VFS 3D program.
let s start from the good things:
the school's organization look very good, the teachers right now are VERY good as personal knowledge and teaching too.
i would like to say that the 3D animation and 3D modeling teachers are very good, they know their stuff, they keep the class attention high. great.
what about the bad things then???
i am really disappointed about some things, i am not the only one as most of my classmates feel the same, and talking to other people in other 3d classes i had the same feedback about this:
1. DVD tutorials
2. Books
3. Pen tablets
4. render farm
let s go in order:
DVD tutorial / books - basically there are no dvd tutorial like Gnomon or digital tutors in the Resources room. how is this possible? when i talked to the advisor by the phone she told me there was a good resources room/library with dvds, tutorial etc so i expected them to have ALL the gnomon dvds, digital tutors and books like Ballistic / expose.
since day 1 everyone at VFS told us that in order to reach good skills and make a good reel we also have to learn stuff by ourself and by tutorials. i think "sounds good, i knew"...
but then when i went to see what they had as tutorial i was disappointed seeing that they dont have any DVD tutorial. should we just count on the online tutorials then? with the blocked internet connection btw...
what about the world's famous books like the Ballistic ones that are so good to look at, in terms of everything: ideas, concepts, 3d art etc...
really they dont have them. i couldnt belive that........
PEN TABLET - i asked for a pen tablet and they only have A6 size pen tablets!
how can people work on a A6 pen tablet? i mean of couse u can, but come on with all the money we pay for the school, should i work on a stamp-size pen tablet?
thanks God i wont go for the Modeling streaming, but can u imagine texturing for months and months on a A6 size tablet? of course u can, of course u can buy ur own one, but again.. with all the money we pay............................... and even if i got my own one A4 size at home, should i take it at school cause they cant afford to buy one?
RENDER FARM - why dont they have a DEDICATED render farm with cluster to render?
again for 50.000 per person - 1.500.000 per class, i think they can afford to buy it, as everyone would be happy and use it.....
so these r the bad things right now, i am just disappointed by that.
i am disappointed because i waited so many years to come here to VFS, it is a life money investment. and if i decided to join VFS is because i consider VFS THE TOP SCHOOL.
but these small problems (dvds,pen tablets, books) in my opinion really push the school down and make it looks cheap.
i am sure that if they had books, dvds etc people would use them, so why dont they have them?
i just wanted to let people know about these things as i think that when u pay ur fee u should know the "complete packaging" that the school got to offer to you.
said that, i really hope that the school can provide this material as soon as possible.
i look foreward to updated you with good news!
googboog8
05-25-2009, 09:14 AM
what batch are you in?
and welcome to vfs :)
and welcome to vfs :)
almagesto
05-25-2009, 09:28 AM
3D80.
btw what i wrote wont be an excuse to make a bad reel. just to be clear :)
btw what i wrote wont be an excuse to make a bad reel. just to be clear :)
NetMapel
05-25-2009, 06:55 PM
Hey almagesto, thanks for that heads up. That is exactly the "critique" I was looking for ! I have to say that I am a bit shocked and dissapointed at the lack of tutorials and decent-sized tablets. I will have to think about purchasing a tablet and finding good tutorials for myself.
pentexplorer
05-25-2009, 07:08 PM
woah theres no dvd tutorials like gnomon or digital tutors or books in the resource library??? I thought every school should have a good staple of dvd tutorials at least. I am pretty disappointed in hearing this. As for the pen tablet, I cant believe we are given a6 tablets for the money we pay. I think they could easily afford big sized intuos for us. I am coming in VFS for the October intake. Hope these get settled by then.
eldee
05-25-2009, 07:50 PM
Most people bring tablets with them, not everybody uses A6, but not everybody uses A4 either.. why stock a plethora of sizes that only a handful of people will even use? Personally I'd rather my tuition money be spent on keeping the computers up to date with proper software and hardware.
And regarding gnomon dvds and whatnot, there are plenty in resources, just go look.. they don't have every single one of them, but there are still plenty.. if there's a particular one that's missing that you feel would be a good addition, tell Al or Vanessa, and I can almost guarantee they'll end up getting it.
dont get stuck into the whole "I paid $xxxxx, I deserve to have _____" thing, there are a lot of people that I know at VFS who have that attitude, and it generally shows in their work. Keep in mind when you get a job you're not going to have the world handed to you on a plate either, so you're going to have to learn to deal with that as well. I'm not saying that there aren't things VFS could do better- they certainly could improve in some areas, but ultimately it is YOUR attitude that will make or break you. If you have a laptop and won't bring it to school because it's a pain in the ass, that's your own fault. Keep in mind you spent $xxxxx to be there, how hard is it to bring your laptop or tablet? just some food for thought :P
PS: there are plenty of ZBrush experts at VFS, not all of them are teachers. If you need some help, ask around in the ant farm. I know if I'm there, I'll help you out.
PPS: I agree w/ the internet access thing. It's pretty retarded, but they have to protect themselves from lawsuits as well.. people have been caught downloading porn, pirated software, you name it. I'd suggest just using ultrasurf like Rana suggested.
And regarding gnomon dvds and whatnot, there are plenty in resources, just go look.. they don't have every single one of them, but there are still plenty.. if there's a particular one that's missing that you feel would be a good addition, tell Al or Vanessa, and I can almost guarantee they'll end up getting it.
dont get stuck into the whole "I paid $xxxxx, I deserve to have _____" thing, there are a lot of people that I know at VFS who have that attitude, and it generally shows in their work. Keep in mind when you get a job you're not going to have the world handed to you on a plate either, so you're going to have to learn to deal with that as well. I'm not saying that there aren't things VFS could do better- they certainly could improve in some areas, but ultimately it is YOUR attitude that will make or break you. If you have a laptop and won't bring it to school because it's a pain in the ass, that's your own fault. Keep in mind you spent $xxxxx to be there, how hard is it to bring your laptop or tablet? just some food for thought :P
PS: there are plenty of ZBrush experts at VFS, not all of them are teachers. If you need some help, ask around in the ant farm. I know if I'm there, I'll help you out.
PPS: I agree w/ the internet access thing. It's pretty retarded, but they have to protect themselves from lawsuits as well.. people have been caught downloading porn, pirated software, you name it. I'd suggest just using ultrasurf like Rana suggested.
NetMapel
05-25-2009, 08:04 PM
What the heck. People were downloading porn and stuff on the school's computers ? Ugh... those few people always ruin it for the rest of us, haha. I suppose they block youtube as well ? I have been paying attention to a number of youtube videos these days and bookmarked a few of them for future references. I would like to be able to access those videos at school.
almagesto
05-25-2009, 08:07 PM
Most people bring tablets with them, not everybody uses A6, but not everybody uses A4 either.. why stock a plethora of sizes that only a handful of people will even use? Personally I'd rather my tuition money be spent on keeping the computers up to date with proper software and hardware.
And regarding gnomon dvds and whatnot, there are plenty in resources, just go look.. they don't have every single one of them, but there are still plenty.. if there's a particular one that's missing that you feel would be a good addition, tell Al or Vanessa, and I can almost guarantee they'll end up getting it.
dont get stuck into the whole "I paid $xxxxx, I deserve to have _____" thing, there are a lot of people that I know at VFS who have that attitude, and it generally shows in their work. Keep in mind when you get a job you're not going to have the world handed to you on a plate either, so you're going to have to learn to deal with that as well. I'm not saying that there aren't things VFS could do better- they certainly could improve in some areas, but ultimately it is YOUR attitude that will make or break you. If you have a laptop and won't bring it to school because it's a pain in the ass, that's your own fault. Keep in mind you spent $xxxxx to be there, how hard is it to bring your laptop or tablet? just some food for thought :P
PS: there are plenty of ZBrush experts at VFS, not all of them are teachers. If you need some help, ask around in the ant farm. I know if I'm there, I'll help you out.
PPS: I agree w/ the internet access thing. It's pretty retarded, but they have to protect themselves from lawsuits as well.. people have been caught downloading porn, pirated software, you name it. I'd suggest just using ultrasurf like Rana suggested.
no i am sorry man. i think in a different way:
first of all in the resources there are NO dvds... if you want we can go together and have a look.
before post here i went there and check, the "man from resources" checked on the database and didnt find anything.
as i said there are 5 dvds (all the same) about NUKE, and some other about motionbuilder.
then they have old gnomon VHS.. vhs??? so if i need to have a look at 1 tutorial do i have to find a TV with VHS???? come on....
about the pen tablet. sorry man but with 50.000 i think we all deserve a good size pen tablet.
u tell me about the industry and about "when i gonna get a job..."
to be honest with u, i used to work in a videogame company, THEY PAY ME and they give me an A4 wacom, plus they had all the latest games (for example) so u could take them and play or use them as references...
here at VFS the thing is different as I HAVE TO PAY THEM and they dont even provide me a decent size pen tablet or DVD tutorials.
and yes sorry i think that "i paid xxxx i deserve xxxx".
and do u know why? cause i consider this school the top as lot of people here.
dont u think that 50,000 r enough to deserve something like this? do i really have to pay by myself on top on the 50,000 for a wacom + training dvds?
listen to this example: u decide to buy a Ferrari car because it s one of ur dreams, super sport fast car, full optional...that cost 250,000 (whatever money).
then they delivery it to you, but u see that it doesnt go faster than 130km/h... or it doesnt have this or the other optional... then u complain and they tell u "what is your problem man? the car goes too slow? come on u r not a good driver so be happy with what u got."
NO wrong.
If i pay 250,000 it s because i want to have the best car, then it s up to me if i want to go slow, use it much or not.
same with the school... we pay 50,000 and we deserve this and that, then it s up to me to use the dvds or not. but the school should provide them.
i know that is my attitude and how much i gonna push to improve me that makes the difference, it s what VFS is keep telling us about... but give me the resources too....
the last thing, u r saying that u prefer the money to be invest in the latest software and latest hardware... doesnt look like we have NASA ps and super huge monitor.... 20'' is the latest??? A6 tablet are hardware... not the latest.
And regarding gnomon dvds and whatnot, there are plenty in resources, just go look.. they don't have every single one of them, but there are still plenty.. if there's a particular one that's missing that you feel would be a good addition, tell Al or Vanessa, and I can almost guarantee they'll end up getting it.
dont get stuck into the whole "I paid $xxxxx, I deserve to have _____" thing, there are a lot of people that I know at VFS who have that attitude, and it generally shows in their work. Keep in mind when you get a job you're not going to have the world handed to you on a plate either, so you're going to have to learn to deal with that as well. I'm not saying that there aren't things VFS could do better- they certainly could improve in some areas, but ultimately it is YOUR attitude that will make or break you. If you have a laptop and won't bring it to school because it's a pain in the ass, that's your own fault. Keep in mind you spent $xxxxx to be there, how hard is it to bring your laptop or tablet? just some food for thought :P
PS: there are plenty of ZBrush experts at VFS, not all of them are teachers. If you need some help, ask around in the ant farm. I know if I'm there, I'll help you out.
PPS: I agree w/ the internet access thing. It's pretty retarded, but they have to protect themselves from lawsuits as well.. people have been caught downloading porn, pirated software, you name it. I'd suggest just using ultrasurf like Rana suggested.
no i am sorry man. i think in a different way:
first of all in the resources there are NO dvds... if you want we can go together and have a look.
before post here i went there and check, the "man from resources" checked on the database and didnt find anything.
as i said there are 5 dvds (all the same) about NUKE, and some other about motionbuilder.
then they have old gnomon VHS.. vhs??? so if i need to have a look at 1 tutorial do i have to find a TV with VHS???? come on....
about the pen tablet. sorry man but with 50.000 i think we all deserve a good size pen tablet.
u tell me about the industry and about "when i gonna get a job..."
to be honest with u, i used to work in a videogame company, THEY PAY ME and they give me an A4 wacom, plus they had all the latest games (for example) so u could take them and play or use them as references...
here at VFS the thing is different as I HAVE TO PAY THEM and they dont even provide me a decent size pen tablet or DVD tutorials.
and yes sorry i think that "i paid xxxx i deserve xxxx".
and do u know why? cause i consider this school the top as lot of people here.
dont u think that 50,000 r enough to deserve something like this? do i really have to pay by myself on top on the 50,000 for a wacom + training dvds?
listen to this example: u decide to buy a Ferrari car because it s one of ur dreams, super sport fast car, full optional...that cost 250,000 (whatever money).
then they delivery it to you, but u see that it doesnt go faster than 130km/h... or it doesnt have this or the other optional... then u complain and they tell u "what is your problem man? the car goes too slow? come on u r not a good driver so be happy with what u got."
NO wrong.
If i pay 250,000 it s because i want to have the best car, then it s up to me if i want to go slow, use it much or not.
same with the school... we pay 50,000 and we deserve this and that, then it s up to me to use the dvds or not. but the school should provide them.
i know that is my attitude and how much i gonna push to improve me that makes the difference, it s what VFS is keep telling us about... but give me the resources too....
the last thing, u r saying that u prefer the money to be invest in the latest software and latest hardware... doesnt look like we have NASA ps and super huge monitor.... 20'' is the latest??? A6 tablet are hardware... not the latest.
googboog8
05-25-2009, 08:07 PM
@netmapelYoutube isn't blocked because we need it for references
almagesto
05-25-2009, 08:11 PM
Youtube isn't blocked because we need it for references
right u tube is not blocked.. but if u need a good tutorial and unfortunately it s linked outside 3dtotal, cgchannel or whatver 3d famous website, u cant access to it....
so not only we dont have gnomon dvds but it looks hard even to browse internet to find tutorial.........
right u tube is not blocked.. but if u need a good tutorial and unfortunately it s linked outside 3dtotal, cgchannel or whatver 3d famous website, u cant access to it....
so not only we dont have gnomon dvds but it looks hard even to browse internet to find tutorial.........
googboog8
05-25-2009, 08:18 PM
right u tube is not blocked.. but if u need a good tutorial and unfortunately it s linked outside 3dtotal, cgchannel or whatver 3d famous website, u cant access to it....
so not only we dont have gnomon dvds but it looks hard even to browse internet to find tutorial.........
gnomon is a rival school, it's understandable that you wont find their dvd's in vfs.
so not only we dont have gnomon dvds but it looks hard even to browse internet to find tutorial.........
gnomon is a rival school, it's understandable that you wont find their dvd's in vfs.
almagesto
05-25-2009, 08:19 PM
gnomon is a rival school, it's understandable that you wont find their dvd's in vfs.
oh come on man r u serious?
in my ex videogame company as i said they used to buy all the good quality games from other companies in order to try them... and they were all rival
but they already have 5 dvds from gnomon about NUKE... so did they make a mistake buying them as they r rival or they just dont want to buy them??
anyway im looking forward to have VFS video tutorial...
oh come on man r u serious?
in my ex videogame company as i said they used to buy all the good quality games from other companies in order to try them... and they were all rival
but they already have 5 dvds from gnomon about NUKE... so did they make a mistake buying them as they r rival or they just dont want to buy them??
anyway im looking forward to have VFS video tutorial...
googboog8
05-25-2009, 08:35 PM
its different in a company where you're working and a school,
for example, if vfs is providing dvd's of other schools it implies that their own teachers are not good enough to give you all the help you need. it looks bad, i dont think any school will give you dvd's of other schools.
and if i remember correctly, magic had made some video tutorials for using some of the features.
the main reason you wont get video tutorials from vfs is because you actually have people here to help you out and teach you things. that's the reason you apply to vfs, to be in an environment where you can learn and people can help you if you need something, if you only want to learn from dvd tutorials then you can do that at home.
also, vfs is not limited to only 3d, there are several other courses here, 3d was only introduced almost 10 years after the school opened. they cant spend all their resources on 3d. (although i think they should, because we pay the most amount of money)
at the end of it, it's 50-50, there are somethings about the school i dont like, and that isn't going to change, but rather than complain, i've found that there are ways to work around almost every problem in vfs.
if i needed a dvd, i got it from a friend of mine or something.
if i needed tutorials, i saw them at home or in school using a proxy browser
there are some things that i didnt like, for example i found some of the classes unnecessary, some of them that were necessary we didn't have or have enough focus on.
but anyway, bottom line is. you get what you put into it, thats what everyone has stressed on for about 70 pages on this thread.
you can have the best teachers and tutorials and if you dont put in the effort, your reel is gonna suck.
or you can go underground for one year, lose all your friends/family outside of vfs and come out with a great demo reel.
IT'S ALL UPTO YOU
http://axisofawesome.net/index/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/weneedyou.jpg
for example, if vfs is providing dvd's of other schools it implies that their own teachers are not good enough to give you all the help you need. it looks bad, i dont think any school will give you dvd's of other schools.
and if i remember correctly, magic had made some video tutorials for using some of the features.
the main reason you wont get video tutorials from vfs is because you actually have people here to help you out and teach you things. that's the reason you apply to vfs, to be in an environment where you can learn and people can help you if you need something, if you only want to learn from dvd tutorials then you can do that at home.
also, vfs is not limited to only 3d, there are several other courses here, 3d was only introduced almost 10 years after the school opened. they cant spend all their resources on 3d. (although i think they should, because we pay the most amount of money)
at the end of it, it's 50-50, there are somethings about the school i dont like, and that isn't going to change, but rather than complain, i've found that there are ways to work around almost every problem in vfs.
if i needed a dvd, i got it from a friend of mine or something.
if i needed tutorials, i saw them at home or in school using a proxy browser
there are some things that i didnt like, for example i found some of the classes unnecessary, some of them that were necessary we didn't have or have enough focus on.
but anyway, bottom line is. you get what you put into it, thats what everyone has stressed on for about 70 pages on this thread.
you can have the best teachers and tutorials and if you dont put in the effort, your reel is gonna suck.
or you can go underground for one year, lose all your friends/family outside of vfs and come out with a great demo reel.
IT'S ALL UPTO YOU
http://axisofawesome.net/index/wp-content/uploads/2009/02/weneedyou.jpg
almagesto
05-25-2009, 08:43 PM
fine man, i see ur point. we just think in 2 different way.
next time i need a gnomon dvd i gonna go and ask "my friend" (pirate friend?) as u said...
now it would be nice to have a feedback from other people too apart from us.
next time i need a gnomon dvd i gonna go and ask "my friend" (pirate friend?) as u said...
now it would be nice to have a feedback from other people too apart from us.
ShadowM8
05-25-2009, 08:45 PM
For the tuition costs of VFS you should expect and demand certain things like quality internet access, a fully stocked reference library, adequate number of software licenses and a render farm.
The reality is that these problems are not new and have been around for years, and mostly they are not being addressed by the management. If people are still willing to spend 50k and forgo these BASICS then I guess it is their prerogative!
As for the internet access it was first restricted in early 2005 for reasons not well explained to the students. I am pretty sure though that it was not due to someone accessing NSFW material but rather students wasting time in the ant farm browsing the web. (YouTube was just created in February of that year!)
The reality is that these problems are not new and have been around for years, and mostly they are not being addressed by the management. If people are still willing to spend 50k and forgo these BASICS then I guess it is their prerogative!
As for the internet access it was first restricted in early 2005 for reasons not well explained to the students. I am pretty sure though that it was not due to someone accessing NSFW material but rather students wasting time in the ant farm browsing the web. (YouTube was just created in February of that year!)
eldee
05-25-2009, 10:00 PM
SNIP.
You sound like you're really upset about what you've found at VFS.. Is there any reason you don't drop out while you can still get a partial refund? If I had come to VFS and had my expectations dashed, I would probably consider it, and even argue to get a full refund due to being misled by advisors... [edit: not trying to sound condescending or anything- just wasn't sure if you were aware it was an option]
As a side note (regarding all of this talk of money) is that these dollar amounts are extremely relative. While your tuition might be a huge amount of money to you (and me), to a school like VFS where expenses are immense, it's pocket change. Think of all the hardware, software, experienced instructors, etc that they have to pay for. How about they get some "proper" sized tablets and instead hire some industry washouts for teachers, or maybe fire the lab assistants. Or maybe raise tuition? Ahh... now that tablet isn't so important.
Bottom line: It is what you make it, and it sounds like you're making it harder than it needs to be. No school will ever be perfect, you've just got to deal with what you have, and make the best possible reel and make a lot of good contacts. But I've said enough on the matter, so I'll leave it at that.
You sound like you're really upset about what you've found at VFS.. Is there any reason you don't drop out while you can still get a partial refund? If I had come to VFS and had my expectations dashed, I would probably consider it, and even argue to get a full refund due to being misled by advisors... [edit: not trying to sound condescending or anything- just wasn't sure if you were aware it was an option]
As a side note (regarding all of this talk of money) is that these dollar amounts are extremely relative. While your tuition might be a huge amount of money to you (and me), to a school like VFS where expenses are immense, it's pocket change. Think of all the hardware, software, experienced instructors, etc that they have to pay for. How about they get some "proper" sized tablets and instead hire some industry washouts for teachers, or maybe fire the lab assistants. Or maybe raise tuition? Ahh... now that tablet isn't so important.
Bottom line: It is what you make it, and it sounds like you're making it harder than it needs to be. No school will ever be perfect, you've just got to deal with what you have, and make the best possible reel and make a lot of good contacts. But I've said enough on the matter, so I'll leave it at that.
almagesto
05-26-2009, 02:00 AM
You sound like you're really upset about what you've found at VFS
never said im upset, i wrote im disappointed... my classmates too and other classes the same.
and talking to teachers they told me "good luck with the tablets, as u r not the first one asking for them".
as i said im not the only one disappointed by these things, so should we all ask for a refound? :)
btw right now in famous ant farm, the lab where u have to work on ur reel there are still the old CTR monitor....
yes maybe for me and u 50k are a lot and for other people are not, but as long as for me (and most of my classmates) 50k r a lot of money, i think i got the right of being disappointed...
never said im upset, i wrote im disappointed... my classmates too and other classes the same.
and talking to teachers they told me "good luck with the tablets, as u r not the first one asking for them".
as i said im not the only one disappointed by these things, so should we all ask for a refound? :)
btw right now in famous ant farm, the lab where u have to work on ur reel there are still the old CTR monitor....
yes maybe for me and u 50k are a lot and for other people are not, but as long as for me (and most of my classmates) 50k r a lot of money, i think i got the right of being disappointed...
Khannalxy'tys
05-26-2009, 02:12 AM
You sound like you're really upset about what you've found at VFS.. Is there any reason you don't drop out while you can still get a partial refund? If I had come to VFS and had my expectations dashed, I would probably consider it, and even argue to get a full refund due to being misled by advisors... [edit: not trying to sound condescending or anything- just wasn't sure if you were aware it was an option].
And it works really well. They are very professional about it.
Awww look at Rana being all serious and pro-active. Hope the reel is going well man =) I miss you guys. And VFS too =P even with all those classes that we all know what they are but also with those classes where the teacher was so good that if he told us to join the foreign Legion cause it would help.. I guess I'd be inclined to do so.
And it works really well. They are very professional about it.
Awww look at Rana being all serious and pro-active. Hope the reel is going well man =) I miss you guys. And VFS too =P even with all those classes that we all know what they are but also with those classes where the teacher was so good that if he told us to join the foreign Legion cause it would help.. I guess I'd be inclined to do so.
googboog8
05-26-2009, 02:55 AM
And it works really well. They are very professional about it.
Awww look at Rana being all serious and pro-active. Hope the reel is going well man =) I miss you guys. And VFS too =P even with all those classes that we all know what they are but also with those classes where the teacher was so good that if he told us to join the foreign Legion cause it would help.. I guess I'd be inclined to do so.
i'm still waiting for that demoreel you're going to take your whole life to make heheh...
p.s. stay away from warcraft
Awww look at Rana being all serious and pro-active. Hope the reel is going well man =) I miss you guys. And VFS too =P even with all those classes that we all know what they are but also with those classes where the teacher was so good that if he told us to join the foreign Legion cause it would help.. I guess I'd be inclined to do so.
i'm still waiting for that demoreel you're going to take your whole life to make heheh...
p.s. stay away from warcraft
eldee
05-26-2009, 05:50 AM
yes maybe for me and u 50k are a lot and for other people are not, but as long as for me (and most of my classmates) 50k r a lot of money, i think i got the right of being disappointed...
if there's that many of you that are disappointed, you should all get together and approach Al at the same time and voice your concerns. So long at they think it's isolated discontent things aren't likely going to change anytime soon. And it does work- trust me. A bunch of us approached Al several months ago about the lack of ZBrush licenses.. it was crazy, a modern modeling program that didn't give students access to ZBrush! At the time there were only 3 licenses in the ant farm. that's it. Now if I understand correctly it's installed on almost every machine in Lab 2 and 3 (dunno about Lab 1, but you would know since you're there every day).
squeaky wheels get the oil, as they say. if your concerns are legitimate and reasonable (and presented as such), I'm sure they'll listen.. they're smart people.
p.s. stay away from warcraft
QFT, sup carlos ;)
if there's that many of you that are disappointed, you should all get together and approach Al at the same time and voice your concerns. So long at they think it's isolated discontent things aren't likely going to change anytime soon. And it does work- trust me. A bunch of us approached Al several months ago about the lack of ZBrush licenses.. it was crazy, a modern modeling program that didn't give students access to ZBrush! At the time there were only 3 licenses in the ant farm. that's it. Now if I understand correctly it's installed on almost every machine in Lab 2 and 3 (dunno about Lab 1, but you would know since you're there every day).
squeaky wheels get the oil, as they say. if your concerns are legitimate and reasonable (and presented as such), I'm sure they'll listen.. they're smart people.
p.s. stay away from warcraft
QFT, sup carlos ;)
blam90
05-27-2009, 04:00 AM
almagesto
I am completely surprised they did not provide those types of resources for that amount of money. I understand its not all about the gnomon dvd's but they provide really good insight on time saving techniques and explanations that instructors may not have time to cover in their lectures. I was suppose to come in the May intake but due to some financing issues, I am pushing back my start date.
I am completely surprised they did not provide those types of resources for that amount of money. I understand its not all about the gnomon dvd's but they provide really good insight on time saving techniques and explanations that instructors may not have time to cover in their lectures. I was suppose to come in the May intake but due to some financing issues, I am pushing back my start date.
hexygen
05-27-2009, 09:44 AM
Hi almagesto,
You wanted to hear some more opinions in those matters so here's mine...
You mentioned these things in your first post:
1. DVD tutorials
2. Books
3. Pen tablets
4. render farm
1. I agree that those DVD's might be important, but keep in mind what's worth 50K for you is not necessary the same for others. Other people might want other resources to be available. I personally never felt that a tutorial was missing because I got almost everything I needed from the teachers. I watched a few of gnomon tutorials before VFS and they mostly show basic stuff, so I had to watch an hour and a half of stuff I already knew to just catch 3-4 sentences about new stuff here and there.
So for me it's not such a big deal but that's a matter of personal taste I guess.
(btw in case you didn't know you can take a VHS system from school as well to watch those old VHS tapes)
2. Books - You are complaining specifically about Ballistic books and similar "eye candy" books. Those books are nice to look at but I'm not sure how much useful they are to a student, especially compared to essential textbooks such as The Animator's Survival Kit, Digital Lighting and Rendering, The Art and Science of Digital Compositing, Learning Maya series and so on.
The fact is there are more than enough usefull books to keep you busy for a whole year and which will guarantee you will become a better 3D artist.
So yeah, you can complain about all the books you DON'T have (there will always be something missing!) but you can also use the resources you have (and you have a lot!) to learn the most during this year.
Just for fun I just checked on resources website and out of 13 copies they have of "Digital Lighting and Rendering" by Jeremy Birn, a book that is recommended by a few teachers as course material, only one is not available.
Maybe your priorities and the priorities of your classmates are different, but I think if you would ask an industry professional which of the two books is more useful most of them will vote for the textbook. And that's part of what you are paying the 50K for, you are paying them to get you focused on the right thing.
One last note about the books and DVD's: tutorials are good to learn the software, but techniques and principals are far more important. I knew parts of Maya inside and out including mel before I came to VFS but I couldn't animate for the life of me, and it took me forever to model the simplest things. I came to VFS and modeled a human character in two weeks in my first term, and so did everybody else in my class, some of them never touched a computer before. Seriously, one of the students in our class didn't know what to do with the username and password they give you in the computers orientation. What I'm trying to say is it wasn't the tutorial or the knowledge of the software that was missing, it's the principals.
So that's another reason why I don't think gnomon DVD's are that important.
3. Pen tablets - Maybe I wasn't expecting much, but I was actually really impressed they have a tablet for every student and you can take it home whenever you want. The size of the tablet is the last thing that was on my mind. But I never used a tablet before and I didn't really get the hang of it after using it for a couple of months at school as well.
I think your best option is trying to get just a handful of bigger tablets since not a lot of people are using it and the ones that do usually have their own from home...
4. Render farm - I really don't know what you are talking about there, the render farm works great these days. It used to suck but Al did a really good job there.
You mentioned somewhere the CRT monitors, but there are far better then the LCD monitors. If you'll go to VFX you'll find out you can't work on the LCD's for anything that has to do with color. Most of the monitors in the ant farm are in good shape and if you get a bad one I'm sure you can get IT to replace it becuase it's essential to your work.
---
I also had a few things that bothered me during my first term: A lot of classes got cancelled, a few models didn't show up for life drawing classes, etc. Some things bother me today as well but not enough to make me feel like I wasted my money.
My personal conclusion so far (term 6) is that the system works. The teachers are not always the best in their field, some classes could be better, some resources maybe missing, but overall you get the results you wanted (good education and a good show reel), so I think they can proudly stand behind their tagline "results matter".
You wanted to hear some more opinions in those matters so here's mine...
You mentioned these things in your first post:
1. DVD tutorials
2. Books
3. Pen tablets
4. render farm
1. I agree that those DVD's might be important, but keep in mind what's worth 50K for you is not necessary the same for others. Other people might want other resources to be available. I personally never felt that a tutorial was missing because I got almost everything I needed from the teachers. I watched a few of gnomon tutorials before VFS and they mostly show basic stuff, so I had to watch an hour and a half of stuff I already knew to just catch 3-4 sentences about new stuff here and there.
So for me it's not such a big deal but that's a matter of personal taste I guess.
(btw in case you didn't know you can take a VHS system from school as well to watch those old VHS tapes)
2. Books - You are complaining specifically about Ballistic books and similar "eye candy" books. Those books are nice to look at but I'm not sure how much useful they are to a student, especially compared to essential textbooks such as The Animator's Survival Kit, Digital Lighting and Rendering, The Art and Science of Digital Compositing, Learning Maya series and so on.
The fact is there are more than enough usefull books to keep you busy for a whole year and which will guarantee you will become a better 3D artist.
So yeah, you can complain about all the books you DON'T have (there will always be something missing!) but you can also use the resources you have (and you have a lot!) to learn the most during this year.
Just for fun I just checked on resources website and out of 13 copies they have of "Digital Lighting and Rendering" by Jeremy Birn, a book that is recommended by a few teachers as course material, only one is not available.
Maybe your priorities and the priorities of your classmates are different, but I think if you would ask an industry professional which of the two books is more useful most of them will vote for the textbook. And that's part of what you are paying the 50K for, you are paying them to get you focused on the right thing.
One last note about the books and DVD's: tutorials are good to learn the software, but techniques and principals are far more important. I knew parts of Maya inside and out including mel before I came to VFS but I couldn't animate for the life of me, and it took me forever to model the simplest things. I came to VFS and modeled a human character in two weeks in my first term, and so did everybody else in my class, some of them never touched a computer before. Seriously, one of the students in our class didn't know what to do with the username and password they give you in the computers orientation. What I'm trying to say is it wasn't the tutorial or the knowledge of the software that was missing, it's the principals.
So that's another reason why I don't think gnomon DVD's are that important.
3. Pen tablets - Maybe I wasn't expecting much, but I was actually really impressed they have a tablet for every student and you can take it home whenever you want. The size of the tablet is the last thing that was on my mind. But I never used a tablet before and I didn't really get the hang of it after using it for a couple of months at school as well.
I think your best option is trying to get just a handful of bigger tablets since not a lot of people are using it and the ones that do usually have their own from home...
4. Render farm - I really don't know what you are talking about there, the render farm works great these days. It used to suck but Al did a really good job there.
You mentioned somewhere the CRT monitors, but there are far better then the LCD monitors. If you'll go to VFX you'll find out you can't work on the LCD's for anything that has to do with color. Most of the monitors in the ant farm are in good shape and if you get a bad one I'm sure you can get IT to replace it becuase it's essential to your work.
---
I also had a few things that bothered me during my first term: A lot of classes got cancelled, a few models didn't show up for life drawing classes, etc. Some things bother me today as well but not enough to make me feel like I wasted my money.
My personal conclusion so far (term 6) is that the system works. The teachers are not always the best in their field, some classes could be better, some resources maybe missing, but overall you get the results you wanted (good education and a good show reel), so I think they can proudly stand behind their tagline "results matter".
VfsAl
05-27-2009, 08:42 PM
post removed by author.
jsweddington
05-28-2009, 06:48 AM
Some zbrush tutorials would be handy. They would be great for the people in later terms who missed the adding of Zbrush to the curriculum and a good resource for those who do get the class now for easy reference in the future.
I still think a commercially administered blacklist would be a better choice on the internet issue. It is cheap and just plugs into the current proxy the school uses. In a worst case scenario that a computer gets something that severely impacts it the system can be re-imaged in about 20 minutes (I asked IT how long it takes them to image a machine). This should only affect the program drive and not files saved to Data or temp.
I still think a commercially administered blacklist would be a better choice on the internet issue. It is cheap and just plugs into the current proxy the school uses. In a worst case scenario that a computer gets something that severely impacts it the system can be re-imaged in about 20 minutes (I asked IT how long it takes them to image a machine). This should only affect the program drive and not files saved to Data or temp.
googboog8
05-28-2009, 06:59 AM
snip.
what are you talking about???? breaking the anti-virus on the workstation???
lol... that's the most ridiculous thing i've heard all day.... hahahaha
i thought all the antivirus's were loaded on a separate server
p.s. a mentor was using polysolve to access a website for some files...
maybe you should complain about him as well.... just letting you know....
the reason the school isn't that hard on polysolve is that it still limits internet usage while still giving you enough access to reference images and stuff, you cant access java applets and flash files but any useful browsing is allowed. they've told us that we shouldn't be using it but sometimes you need it for references and stuff, if you dont want to use it, that's fine.
what are you talking about???? breaking the anti-virus on the workstation???
lol... that's the most ridiculous thing i've heard all day.... hahahaha
i thought all the antivirus's were loaded on a separate server
p.s. a mentor was using polysolve to access a website for some files...
maybe you should complain about him as well.... just letting you know....
the reason the school isn't that hard on polysolve is that it still limits internet usage while still giving you enough access to reference images and stuff, you cant access java applets and flash files but any useful browsing is allowed. they've told us that we shouldn't be using it but sometimes you need it for references and stuff, if you dont want to use it, that's fine.
Juleshortstuff
05-28-2009, 07:21 AM
Perhaps some of these concerns would benefit more from emails or a visit to Al at his office. I'm not sure that this CGtalk forum is the correct choice for this particular discussion.
jsweddington
05-28-2009, 09:02 AM
Yea it is insanely stupid. The Anti-virus is server controlled but each machine has a local running copy that is controlled by the server. Take a look in your system tray.
I know that "everyone does it" when it comes to the circumventions. In fact I know it took someone in the ant farm about 30 seconds to bypass the latest attempt to block Ultrasurf today.
I am just trying to make change happen in the correct fashion. Bypassing the firewall may be fine and dandy here, but on the job it can lose you your job very quick.
I will just have to start carrying my laptop in and make room for it somehow or just keep using remote desktop to access it from School.
I also need to stop by your desk sometime soon and see what you're working on. I'm working on something similar evidently.
what are you talking about???? breaking the anti-virus on the workstation???
lol... that's the most ridiculous thing i've heard all day.... hahahaha
i thought all the antivirus's were loaded on a separate server
p.s. a mentor was using polysolve to access a website for some files...
maybe you should complain about him as well.... just letting you know....
the reason the school isn't that hard on polysolve is that it still limits internet usage while still giving you enough access to reference images and stuff, you cant access java applets and flash files but any useful browsing is allowed. they've told us that we shouldn't be using it but sometimes you need it for references and stuff, if you dont want to use it, that's fine.
I know that "everyone does it" when it comes to the circumventions. In fact I know it took someone in the ant farm about 30 seconds to bypass the latest attempt to block Ultrasurf today.
I am just trying to make change happen in the correct fashion. Bypassing the firewall may be fine and dandy here, but on the job it can lose you your job very quick.
I will just have to start carrying my laptop in and make room for it somehow or just keep using remote desktop to access it from School.
I also need to stop by your desk sometime soon and see what you're working on. I'm working on something similar evidently.
what are you talking about???? breaking the anti-virus on the workstation???
lol... that's the most ridiculous thing i've heard all day.... hahahaha
i thought all the antivirus's were loaded on a separate server
p.s. a mentor was using polysolve to access a website for some files...
maybe you should complain about him as well.... just letting you know....
the reason the school isn't that hard on polysolve is that it still limits internet usage while still giving you enough access to reference images and stuff, you cant access java applets and flash files but any useful browsing is allowed. they've told us that we shouldn't be using it but sometimes you need it for references and stuff, if you dont want to use it, that's fine.
googboog8
05-28-2009, 09:46 AM
Yea it is insanely stupid. The Anti-virus is server controlled but each machine has a local running copy that is controlled by the server. Take a look in your system tray.
I know that "everyone does it" when it comes to the circumventions. In fact I know it took someone in the ant farm about 30 seconds to bypass the latest attempt to block Ultrasurf today.
I am just trying to make change happen in the correct fashion. Bypassing the firewall may be fine and dandy here, but on the job it can lose you your job very quick.
I will just have to start carrying my laptop in and make room for it somehow or just keep using remote desktop to access it from School.
I also need to stop by your desk sometime soon and see what you're working on. I'm working on something similar evidently.
yeah, i found out about bypassing the firewall after i posted my reply. i'd rather not mess around with system files.
anyway, i don't think having a blacklist/whitelist or anything is a good idea. i'd prefer full on internet access anyway, but if the school isn't going to provide it, i can use my laptop or polysolve. like i've said before, most of the problems in vfs can be worked around.
luke told me you were also working on a werewolf, drop by if you need help with the fur or something.
I know that "everyone does it" when it comes to the circumventions. In fact I know it took someone in the ant farm about 30 seconds to bypass the latest attempt to block Ultrasurf today.
I am just trying to make change happen in the correct fashion. Bypassing the firewall may be fine and dandy here, but on the job it can lose you your job very quick.
I will just have to start carrying my laptop in and make room for it somehow or just keep using remote desktop to access it from School.
I also need to stop by your desk sometime soon and see what you're working on. I'm working on something similar evidently.
yeah, i found out about bypassing the firewall after i posted my reply. i'd rather not mess around with system files.
anyway, i don't think having a blacklist/whitelist or anything is a good idea. i'd prefer full on internet access anyway, but if the school isn't going to provide it, i can use my laptop or polysolve. like i've said before, most of the problems in vfs can be worked around.
luke told me you were also working on a werewolf, drop by if you need help with the fur or something.
jsweddington
05-28-2009, 09:58 AM
Yep I am. Course not til next term. Term 5 is Characters for modelers. This term is environment. I'm actually pretty comfortable with XSI fur already. Just curious to see your work.
yeah, i found out about bypassing the firewall after i posted my reply. i'd rather not mess around with system files.
anyway, i don't think having a blacklist/whitelist or anything is a good idea. i'd prefer full on internet access anyway, but if the school isn't going to provide it, i can use my laptop or polysolve. like i've said before, most of the problems in vfs can be worked around.
luke told me you were also working on a werewolf, drop by if you need help with the fur or something.
yeah, i found out about bypassing the firewall after i posted my reply. i'd rather not mess around with system files.
anyway, i don't think having a blacklist/whitelist or anything is a good idea. i'd prefer full on internet access anyway, but if the school isn't going to provide it, i can use my laptop or polysolve. like i've said before, most of the problems in vfs can be worked around.
luke told me you were also working on a werewolf, drop by if you need help with the fur or something.
pentexplorer
06-09-2009, 06:05 AM
why did Alastair remove his post? It was a very good post by him. Anyway anyone starting in this October term? Am looking forward to it. Hope everything gets sorted out and make some great friends there.
googboog8
06-09-2009, 06:07 AM
he deleted it himself..
eldee
06-10-2009, 05:29 PM
As of about 5 seconds ago- IT has lifted the internet restrictions that were on all of the ant farm computers and other labs. See, they listen!
Intervain
06-13-2009, 01:42 AM
wow took them a long time LOL... 3 years at least :scream:
omorenof
06-15-2009, 11:56 AM
Hey everybody...
I am about to finish my year of foundation at vfs...
going to 3D right away... who else is coming for 3D in june??
any doubts?? concerns?? let me know and i will help you out with anything you need to know...
i will see you around...
I am about to finish my year of foundation at vfs...
going to 3D right away... who else is coming for 3D in june??
any doubts?? concerns?? let me know and i will help you out with anything you need to know...
i will see you around...
Akaikami
06-17-2009, 01:00 AM
So I'm thinking of attending VFS this year. I've spoken to an admissions counselor about my loan options and it seems that my only option is a Sallie Mae loan. I've heard quite a few bad things about them, and their interest rates look pretty shitty.
Is it really my only option as a US Citizen as far as private loans?
Also, if any other US citizens here who have attended VFS for 3D Animation/Visual Effects could chat with me via AIM for a bit that would be awesome. I'm on as ceebee3d if you have any free time!
Is it really my only option as a US Citizen as far as private loans?
Also, if any other US citizens here who have attended VFS for 3D Animation/Visual Effects could chat with me via AIM for a bit that would be awesome. I'm on as ceebee3d if you have any free time!
eldee
06-17-2009, 05:01 AM
I got my loan through TERI, who sold it to wachovia, who was bought out by bank of america. :P
either way, yeah private loans are serious business, make sure you have a plan on how you're going to handle the payments and whatnot before you actually go. Luckily I'm married to a pretty smart lady, and we did something a little unorthodox:
1) Three separate disbursements. You are only charged interest on money that has been disbursed, so I pre-planned how much money I would be spending or need to spend with the first disbursement, and then had the other two kick in when I suspected I would be needing it. This is tricky and requires some careful planning.
2) We sold our house and moved into a small apartment the last year before we moved to vancouver. This cut our monthly expenses by about $700 and it went right in the bank. In addition to other money we were able to save, we went up to vancouver with $20k in the bank, so we had a bit of a cushion.
3) We used the money we saved up to make payments on the loan while I'm actually in school. A normal student loan is usually deferred, which means you don't make payments until you graduate. BUT- you're still being charged interest for the entire amount while you're actually IN school. So your $50k student loan is probably closer to $65 by the time you graduate heh. Making payments on the interest along with #1 (multiple disbursements) made it so I made it to the end with some of the actual principle paid down (not just interest). This helps you control the 'ballooning' of your loan due to interest only payments.
After graduation there are several options on the table, the most obvious being aggressive paying down of the loan for a couple years. Others include consolidation to get a fixed rate, etc.
Long story short, be smart with your money and look at ALL of your options before signing anything.. because life is too short to spend it stressed out about debt you can't dig out of. I know Rebecca Kimmel has a ton of information on this sort of thing, perhaps you can give her a PM (http://rebeccak.cgsociety.org/gallery/) or maybe she'll chime in here. I know she's posted a lot of information about loans in the past, I just can't remember which of her many blogs it was located on heh.
either way, yeah private loans are serious business, make sure you have a plan on how you're going to handle the payments and whatnot before you actually go. Luckily I'm married to a pretty smart lady, and we did something a little unorthodox:
1) Three separate disbursements. You are only charged interest on money that has been disbursed, so I pre-planned how much money I would be spending or need to spend with the first disbursement, and then had the other two kick in when I suspected I would be needing it. This is tricky and requires some careful planning.
2) We sold our house and moved into a small apartment the last year before we moved to vancouver. This cut our monthly expenses by about $700 and it went right in the bank. In addition to other money we were able to save, we went up to vancouver with $20k in the bank, so we had a bit of a cushion.
3) We used the money we saved up to make payments on the loan while I'm actually in school. A normal student loan is usually deferred, which means you don't make payments until you graduate. BUT- you're still being charged interest for the entire amount while you're actually IN school. So your $50k student loan is probably closer to $65 by the time you graduate heh. Making payments on the interest along with #1 (multiple disbursements) made it so I made it to the end with some of the actual principle paid down (not just interest). This helps you control the 'ballooning' of your loan due to interest only payments.
After graduation there are several options on the table, the most obvious being aggressive paying down of the loan for a couple years. Others include consolidation to get a fixed rate, etc.
Long story short, be smart with your money and look at ALL of your options before signing anything.. because life is too short to spend it stressed out about debt you can't dig out of. I know Rebecca Kimmel has a ton of information on this sort of thing, perhaps you can give her a PM (http://rebeccak.cgsociety.org/gallery/) or maybe she'll chime in here. I know she's posted a lot of information about loans in the past, I just can't remember which of her many blogs it was located on heh.
NetMapel
06-17-2009, 06:16 AM
Unless you've already signed up for a spot, I don't know whether you can attend the 3D animation program this year. All the classes are full until May 2010. That will give you about 11 months starting now to make some money and save up as much as you can. That's what I'm doing anyways so I can get as little loan as I possibly can.
Akaikami
06-23-2009, 03:59 AM
Could any alumni or people currently attending the 3D Animation & Visual Effects program at VFS throw me an IM on AIM? I have a few questions if you're not busy :]
AIM: ceebee3d
AIM: ceebee3d
Kskovbo
06-23-2009, 04:27 AM
You can always speak to an advisor. Contact information is on the website. Though instead of asking one person over IM or AIM, why not ask your questions here and get some different perspectives. Just so you are not hearing it only from one person.. imo.
NetMapel
06-23-2009, 04:49 AM
You can always speak to an advisor. Contact information is on the website. Though instead of asking one person over IM or AIM, why not ask your questions here and get some different perspectives. Just so you are not hearing it only from one person.. imo.
Hey I just checked your blog quickly. Really good work done in Term 1 ! Did you have some sort of 3D or art background prior to joining VFS ?
Hey I just checked your blog quickly. Really good work done in Term 1 ! Did you have some sort of 3D or art background prior to joining VFS ?
kelgy
06-23-2009, 04:58 AM
.
**egads
you live down the street from me.
I was born in White Rock.
Lesser known White Rock factoid..
Elvis visited in 1957.
**egads
you live down the street from me.
I was born in White Rock.
Lesser known White Rock factoid..
Elvis visited in 1957.
googboog8
06-23-2009, 05:20 AM
i have 4 people from white rock in my class ...
strange
strange
NetMapel
06-23-2009, 06:06 AM
i have 4 people from white rock in my class ...
strange
Ah, because we are awesome ;) Could you ask them how they deal with the daily commute ? I understand that VFS is intense, so how are they doing in having to travel long distances everyday ?
strange
Ah, because we are awesome ;) Could you ask them how they deal with the daily commute ? I understand that VFS is intense, so how are they doing in having to travel long distances everyday ?
kelgy
06-23-2009, 06:10 AM
i have 4 people from white rock in my class ...
strange
**
That's interesting. Usually when I told people in vancouver I came from WR they would say: that's so far.
Its only a 45 minute bus commute to Vancouver downtown from where i am though...good ol 351...
I forgot about rush hour. Rush hour is so bad.
Though going to SFU is the worst from here.
Used to take 3 hours one way sometimes.
strange
**
That's interesting. Usually when I told people in vancouver I came from WR they would say: that's so far.
Its only a 45 minute bus commute to Vancouver downtown from where i am though...good ol 351...
I forgot about rush hour. Rush hour is so bad.
Though going to SFU is the worst from here.
Used to take 3 hours one way sometimes.
googboog8
06-23-2009, 06:21 AM
Ah, because we are awesome ;) Could you ask them how they deal with the daily commute ? I understand that VFS is intense, so how are they doing in having to travel long distances everyday ?
all of them work more from home than at school.
they're probably in class less than anyone else i know... not that the work is bad, but yeah, i dont see them in school on weekends and stuff, when everyone else usually is here
all of them work more from home than at school.
they're probably in class less than anyone else i know... not that the work is bad, but yeah, i dont see them in school on weekends and stuff, when everyone else usually is here
NetMapel
06-23-2009, 06:27 AM
Well, it'll probably take a good one hour ride to get to downtown in the morning due to morning traffic. Then a good 10 minute walk from the bus stop to the campus. On a good day, that's not too bad, but when it's winter and raining, it will probably suck :( I have to prepare myself to wake up at like, 7am or something to make the 9am class... yarrggghhh ! Furthermore, #351 will be re-routed to connect to the Canada Line when it opens so the closet skytrain station we get is Yaletown, which will lengthen the walk to campus to about 20 minutes. I am more of a school person so I plan to stay at school for longer time to get work done and interact with peers.
How can you work on Maya stuff at home unless you get a copy of it at home ? I only got the PLE which doesn't load non-PLE Maya scenes :P
How can you work on Maya stuff at home unless you get a copy of it at home ? I only got the PLE which doesn't load non-PLE Maya scenes :P
jsweddington
06-23-2009, 07:23 AM
We have one girl from White rock in our class. After dealing with the commute in term 1 and her work being not anywhere what it could be she found a place downtown.
It shows. She is an excellent animator and is fast. Don't commute. Get a place close. To do otherwise is not worth it.
It shows. She is an excellent animator and is fast. Don't commute. Get a place close. To do otherwise is not worth it.
Akaikami
06-23-2009, 08:22 AM
I'm grabbing that last seat for the August 31st class this year in the 3D Animation and Visual Effects program. Anybody here currently attending it and can give me some suggestions or tips? Also your experience with the move from your home country/state/region to vancouver would be awesome.
Oh, and I'm still looking to see if anybody knows a way other than Sallie Mae to get loans if you're a US citizen? Their interest rates are pretty high, but if it's the only option like the VFS representative said, then I really have no choice :/
Oh, and I'm still looking to see if anybody knows a way other than Sallie Mae to get loans if you're a US citizen? Their interest rates are pretty high, but if it's the only option like the VFS representative said, then I really have no choice :/
Kskovbo
06-23-2009, 11:05 AM
Hey I just checked your blog quickly. Really good work done in Term 1 ! Did you have some sort of 3D or art background prior to joining VFS ?
Thanks! I did some fundamental courses back home in Denmark at Truemax.com, other than that I have just done modeling and a bit of VFX the past 2 1/2 years. Check my blog on wednesday, I am uploading my full term 1 presentation, if you are interrested.
You at VFS too?
Thanks! I did some fundamental courses back home in Denmark at Truemax.com, other than that I have just done modeling and a bit of VFX the past 2 1/2 years. Check my blog on wednesday, I am uploading my full term 1 presentation, if you are interrested.
You at VFS too?
NetMapel
06-23-2009, 10:21 PM
Thanks! I did some fundamental courses back home in Denmark at Truemax.com, other than that I have just done modeling and a bit of VFX the past 2 1/2 years. Check my blog on wednesday, I am uploading my full term 1 presentation, if you are interrested.
You at VFS too?
Interesting to know a bit about your background. I'm not in VFS yet. I have enrolled but my session haven't started yet. I stumbled upon this forum while I was researching the right school for me to attend and decided to stay awhile and listen ;)
You at VFS too?
Interesting to know a bit about your background. I'm not in VFS yet. I have enrolled but my session haven't started yet. I stumbled upon this forum while I was researching the right school for me to attend and decided to stay awhile and listen ;)
ShadowM8
06-24-2009, 05:59 PM
I was commuting from Surrey for the whole year, about 50 min each way!
Don't do it !!! :) Get a place closer. Doing work at home is a bad option as well!
Don't do it !!! :) Get a place closer. Doing work at home is a bad option as well!
pentexplorer
06-24-2009, 06:20 PM
I was commuting from Surrey for the whole year, about 50 min each way!
Don't do it !!! :) Get a place closer. Doing work at home is a bad option as well!
So you are recommending to get the shared bedroom downtown? Is that a good choice?
Don't do it !!! :) Get a place closer. Doing work at home is a bad option as well!
So you are recommending to get the shared bedroom downtown? Is that a good choice?
JamesMcPhail
06-24-2009, 06:32 PM
I'm sure I sound like a broken record if you read the last couple of years of this thread. But get a place as close to school as possible. The west end is ideal. I lived 10 mins walk from VFS when I went there and it made life so much easier. If you have a long commute home you will find your work hours are much more constrained. Staying that extra hour to see something through becomes much harder if you have to catch the last bus / skytrain etc. Being closer to school means more time working on your reel and less time commuting.
There are usually tons of ads on craigslist for rooms to rent in the west end. Or you could look at sharing an apartment with a classmate or two.
There are usually tons of ads on craigslist for rooms to rent in the west end. Or you could look at sharing an apartment with a classmate or two.
NetMapel
06-24-2009, 08:36 PM
It is so incredibly expensive to live out in downtown though... I plan to bring lunch/dinner boxes so I can stay at the school and the vicinity the entire day.
LolaToonHead
07-01-2009, 06:00 PM
I'm considering going to VFS after I finish my animation degree at the Art Institute of Philadelphia. I'll be done in September.
My concentration is 2D right now and I can't decide whether to apply for the 2D or 3D program at VFS.
I enjoy 3D, but traditional is what I love most. All the work out there is 3D, so I'm considering taking that.
One of the reasons I want to go there is the length of the program. I want a fairly short, but intensive, program.
Any thoughts or recommendations on which direction I should go - 2D or 3D?
You can check out my demo (keep in mind it's a work in progress) at http://www.youtube.com/user/LolaToonHead#play/all/uploads-all/0/VEnuVTS28n8
My concentration is 2D right now and I can't decide whether to apply for the 2D or 3D program at VFS.
I enjoy 3D, but traditional is what I love most. All the work out there is 3D, so I'm considering taking that.
One of the reasons I want to go there is the length of the program. I want a fairly short, but intensive, program.
Any thoughts or recommendations on which direction I should go - 2D or 3D?
You can check out my demo (keep in mind it's a work in progress) at http://www.youtube.com/user/LolaToonHead#play/all/uploads-all/0/VEnuVTS28n8
jsweddington
07-01-2009, 09:24 PM
I would strongly recommend 3d. we have 2 in my class who took the 2d course and then went on to 3d. The fact is that there isn't any or hardly any 2d work out there unless you want to do flash.
The 3d program does have intense 2d classes the first 2 terms. They want the 3d animators to have a strong background in 2d animation principles which apply directly to 3d.
The 3d program does have intense 2d classes the first 2 terms. They want the 3d animators to have a strong background in 2d animation principles which apply directly to 3d.
JamesMcPhail
07-02-2009, 04:29 PM
I'm considering going to VFS after I finish my animation degree at the Art Institute of Philadelphia. I'll be done in September.
My concentration is 2D right now and I can't decide whether to apply for the 2D or 3D program at VFS.
I enjoy 3D, but traditional is what I love most. All the work out there is 3D, so I'm considering taking that.
One of the reasons I want to go there is the length of the program. I want a fairly short, but intensive, program.
Any thoughts or recommendations on which direction I should go - 2D or 3D?
You can check out my demo (keep in mind it's a work in progress) at http://www.youtube.com/user/LolaToonHead#play/all/uploads-all/0/VEnuVTS28n8
They have a 6 month program called Digital Character Animation that is intended for people with traditional experience wanting to transfer their skills to 3D. It might be worth a look.
My concentration is 2D right now and I can't decide whether to apply for the 2D or 3D program at VFS.
I enjoy 3D, but traditional is what I love most. All the work out there is 3D, so I'm considering taking that.
One of the reasons I want to go there is the length of the program. I want a fairly short, but intensive, program.
Any thoughts or recommendations on which direction I should go - 2D or 3D?
You can check out my demo (keep in mind it's a work in progress) at http://www.youtube.com/user/LolaToonHead#play/all/uploads-all/0/VEnuVTS28n8
They have a 6 month program called Digital Character Animation that is intended for people with traditional experience wanting to transfer their skills to 3D. It might be worth a look.
LolaToonHead
07-02-2009, 04:47 PM
That's precisely the program I was looking at, but I was torn between the 1 year traditional animation and the 3D character animation.
I'm pretty sure I'm applying for the 3D one. I'm not interested in their 1 year 3D program. The shorter program seems to fit my needs better.
I'm pretty sure I'm applying for the 3D one. I'm not interested in their 1 year 3D program. The shorter program seems to fit my needs better.
NetMapel
07-02-2009, 06:47 PM
That's precisely the program I was looking at, but I was torn between the 1 year traditional animation and the 3D character animation.
I'm pretty sure I'm applying for the 3D one. I'm not interested in their 1 year 3D program. The shorter program seems to fit my needs better.
I don't know. If you want to go into and commit to 3D, I think the 3D animation & vfx is the way to go. I think if you are fairly new to 3D, having a full year to familiarize yourself with all the software will be beneficial to getting your creative juice going.
I'm pretty sure I'm applying for the 3D one. I'm not interested in their 1 year 3D program. The shorter program seems to fit my needs better.
I don't know. If you want to go into and commit to 3D, I think the 3D animation & vfx is the way to go. I think if you are fairly new to 3D, having a full year to familiarize yourself with all the software will be beneficial to getting your creative juice going.
LolaToonHead
07-02-2009, 11:41 PM
I've never used Maya, but I'm pretty familiar with 3DS Max. I also know some ZBrush.
My concentration is 2D, but we're required to take at least four 3D classes at the Art Institute.
I'm comfortable modeling and texturing, but I'm not great at character rigging.
I'm applying to start in July of 2010, which gives me almost a year after I graduate to get acquainted with Maya.
My concentration is 2D, but we're required to take at least four 3D classes at the Art Institute.
I'm comfortable modeling and texturing, but I'm not great at character rigging.
I'm applying to start in July of 2010, which gives me almost a year after I graduate to get acquainted with Maya.
Akaikami
07-10-2009, 07:39 AM
Anybody attending August 31st for 3D Animation and VSFX?
Pixanaut
07-11-2009, 08:55 AM
If you're not spending $800-1000/month on your portion of the rent, you'll be living in a pretty crappy place. I just moved to Vancouver, and live in the downtown core (10-15 minute walk from VFS) and I'm at about $875/month (CDN, obviously)... nice place too. The real shift is between $1400 and $1700 a month (two bedroom). That $300 difference is the difference between having an elevator that *might* stop at your floor or having a concierge at the front desk downstairs.
The VFS courses are intense and attendance makes up part of your grade. Living farther away might be a bit cheaper, but you'll pay for it in other ways (burned out, missing deadlines, $$ spent on bus/skytrain passes, etc...). Also, parking near the school is crazy expensive, so driving to school and parking all day is going to cost you more in the long run than paying the extra in rent to live near the school. VFS can help you with placement (but you're better off coming a month early and finding a place yourself), and they can place a roommate with you if you need one (which can be a good or bad thing...).
And don't plan on getting a job while taking VFS courses... there simply isn't time to split your focus.
They say the course is 4 years of education crammed into 1... and from the people I know, they say it feels like it.
The VFS courses are intense and attendance makes up part of your grade. Living farther away might be a bit cheaper, but you'll pay for it in other ways (burned out, missing deadlines, $$ spent on bus/skytrain passes, etc...). Also, parking near the school is crazy expensive, so driving to school and parking all day is going to cost you more in the long run than paying the extra in rent to live near the school. VFS can help you with placement (but you're better off coming a month early and finding a place yourself), and they can place a roommate with you if you need one (which can be a good or bad thing...).
And don't plan on getting a job while taking VFS courses... there simply isn't time to split your focus.
They say the course is 4 years of education crammed into 1... and from the people I know, they say it feels like it.
LolaToonHead
07-11-2009, 03:50 PM
That's rough.
I'm not sure I can afford that.
But then again, I just applied and don't even know if I got in yet.
Has anyone here gone through the advanced character animation course?
If so, what did you think of it?
I'm not sure I can afford that.
But then again, I just applied and don't even know if I got in yet.
Has anyone here gone through the advanced character animation course?
If so, what did you think of it?
eldee
07-11-2009, 08:14 PM
That's rough.
I'm not sure I can afford that.
I don't know of anyone who can :D
I'm not sure I can afford that.
I don't know of anyone who can :D
Akaikami
07-12-2009, 09:34 PM
Yeah pretty much nobody pays for colleges themselves these days, unless their parents are loaded or they're 30+ and already have a load of money saved up. Or their school is very generous and/or cheap with scholarships and grants.
I'm planning on going to VFS pretty much completely funded by loans because I wasn't fortunate enough to be able to save money, or have a college fund, like most students my age were. :/
I'm planning on going to VFS pretty much completely funded by loans because I wasn't fortunate enough to be able to save money, or have a college fund, like most students my age were. :/
pentexplorer
07-13-2009, 03:37 AM
Yeah pretty much nobody pays for colleges themselves these days, unless their parents are loaded or they're 30+ and already have a load of money saved up. Or their school is very generous and/or cheap with scholarships and grants.
I'm planning on going to VFS pretty much completely funded by loans because I wasn't fortunate enough to be able to save money, or have a college fund, like most students my age were. :/
i think there are a lot of people still going to colleges like AAU,SCAD,Ringling etc...it all depends on their criteria and goals and of course some are loaded with a lot of money. VFS isn't cheap either and for a 1-year program, its pretty darn expensive.. but its more or less the fast track to the industry cut the general education modules n summer school holidays from your standard university education. When are you planning to go VFS?
I'm planning on going to VFS pretty much completely funded by loans because I wasn't fortunate enough to be able to save money, or have a college fund, like most students my age were. :/
i think there are a lot of people still going to colleges like AAU,SCAD,Ringling etc...it all depends on their criteria and goals and of course some are loaded with a lot of money. VFS isn't cheap either and for a 1-year program, its pretty darn expensive.. but its more or less the fast track to the industry cut the general education modules n summer school holidays from your standard university education. When are you planning to go VFS?
eldee
07-13-2009, 08:22 PM
The way I justified the cost of VFS, was that it's actually cheaper than spending 3 years in a longer program. The cost of supporting yourself over that time really adds up, especially if your plan is to focus on your studies and not have to worry about holding down a part time job while you go to school. When I was weighing my options I found VFS to be a much better deal for what you're getting (study materials and art supplies provided, full 24h access to labs, etc), provided you can keep up with the fast pace and produce a piece of work that will actually get you a job when you graduate (many do not, unfortunately).
Though like you said, it all depends on what your priorities and goals are. If you can work your way through a traditional college or longer program, it may ultimately be cheaper because you have an income that helps support you and you're not necessarily living off of a student loan. If you're going to live off a student loan anyway, better to get it over with quick imo.
Though like you said, it all depends on what your priorities and goals are. If you can work your way through a traditional college or longer program, it may ultimately be cheaper because you have an income that helps support you and you're not necessarily living off of a student loan. If you're going to live off a student loan anyway, better to get it over with quick imo.
JamesMcPhail
07-13-2009, 11:02 PM
The way I justified the cost of VFS, was that it's actually cheaper than spending 3 years in a longer program.
I agree completely. This was one of my main reasons for going. Both financially and mentaly I didn't want to spend another 3-4 years doing a university program. I just wanted to get in, get out and get working.
I agree completely. This was one of my main reasons for going. Both financially and mentaly I didn't want to spend another 3-4 years doing a university program. I just wanted to get in, get out and get working.
jsweddington
07-14-2009, 01:14 AM
Same reasoning here. After trying a couple previous colleges for 1 year and really disliking the slow pace, unfocused course load and my desire to learn what I wanted fast VFS was the choice.
LolaToonHead
07-20-2009, 07:12 PM
I got in. :)
I'll start the advanced character animation program in july of 2010.
And they gave me a small, but helpful, scholarship.
:bounce:
I'll start the advanced character animation program in july of 2010.
And they gave me a small, but helpful, scholarship.
:bounce:
Pixanaut
07-20-2009, 10:09 PM
That's awesome! Congrats Lola!
Once you get to Van, be sure to check out some of the cgtalk meetups. It's a great chance to network.
You're gonna love it here. :)
Once you get to Van, be sure to check out some of the cgtalk meetups. It's a great chance to network.
You're gonna love it here. :)
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