CGTalk - High-End compositing training, i.e. Flame Artist learning

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epatnor

08-21-2003, 07:58 PM

Hi all,

Regarding my last thread (http://www.cgtalk.com/showthread.php?s=&threadid=82379), I didn't get much response on that topic. Thanks TrenZ62 tho, for some tips.

I would like to become a good compositing artist, but since this is high-end, options seem slim. I suppose that the training available mainly consists of like 4-day training sessions for industry people who want to expand their present skills.

The Finishing School mentioned in the previous thread seem to have cut back on their course offerings, maybe that's why noone could give insights on that school. :hmm: Now, all they offer is a 4+4 day introduction and deeper practicl work with Flame.

Please, if you have any tips on more complete educations on systems like Flame, Inferno, Shake, or Digital Fusion, share them. Preferrably in Europe, but the rest of the world is certainly insteresting as well. US, Australia, New Zeeland, just drop a line about the schools you know of that have this type of training in their course offerings.

I think what I am trying to get at is, how to become a high level compositing artist, BESIDES getting a job at some company at entry level, and after a few years, be trained by that company.

Well 'I would just really appreciate any input on this, please let me know if this is too lame a question for you ("Which school should I choose" discussion number 233), but who can you ask better than pros on the net? ;)

Take care, Patrik

dmeyer

08-22-2003, 01:17 AM

Originally posted by epatnor

I think what I am trying to get at is, how to become a high level compositing artist, BESIDES getting a job at some company at entry level, and after a few years, be trained by that company.

This is (for the most part) the only way to get yourself into a Flame suite. Houses spending $200K+ for a Flame are not going to put an inexperienced operator on it to do client driven work, even if they are formally trained. Having some Flame training at a school would likely accelerate your acension through the ranks though, so to speak.

A good entry point is to become very good with Combustion first. A lot of houses use it to do offline work first to pass up to the Flame artists. The workflows and interfaces are fairly similar, and the price is very reasonable.

As for Shake, to get your feet wet check out the new Apple Pro Training book. It's kind of basic but it's well written and will get your feet wet with Shake. While talking about books, also be sure to pick up Ron Brinkman's book, The Art and Scienece of Digital Compositing. Read it, memorize it, and have it within arms reach of your composite box.

Also, I wouldnt worry so much about the name on the software. An artist with a great reel showing great comps and good problem solving skills (regardless of package) will be hired much more quickly than the guy who lists Flame on his resume but has a lackluster reel. Not saying you have a lackluster reel or anything, as I havent seen it...but you get my point. Software is just a tool. The end output is what counts.

beaker

08-22-2003, 03:57 AM

I agree with dmeyer. The only way your going to get anywhere, even if you have formal training is in an entry level position at a company. You will still have to take that entry level position whether you take the classes or not. So might as well save some money and learn from the pros in a studio. Roto/Paint, Motion Tracking, Tape Operator, etc... If your good, depending on the company, you can easily move up from a roto/paint or matchmove position within a year.

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