Visual & SFX
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Hiring the Perfect Visual Effects Editor
The visual effects (VFX) are a crucial part of any production, whether it’s a film, video game, short video, or presentation. When you hire a freelancer to do your production’s visual effects, you must find someone skilled and experienced. It also helps to know what kind of VFX or special effects (SFX) you’re looking for.
FAQs
What does a visual effect editor do?
A visual effects editor creates and manages all the visual effects in a film, video, or other production. Their typical tasks include:
- Creating a VFX plan: Before production of a video or film can begin, the visual effect editor will create a plan highlighting all the VFX they plan to incorporate. They create this list based on the script and information from the director.
- Visual quality control: The VFX editor is also responsible for checking the visual quality of a film or video in post-production. They look for even the most minor mistakes to ensure the video is flawless.
- Taking copious notes: As production of the film or video goes on, visual effects editors must keep detailed notes on how things evolve, so they can remain on top of any changes.
- Communicating with other VFX staff: The visual effect editor isn’t the only person responsible for a video’s VFX. There may also be a VFX coordinator or supervisor they must liaise with as well.
How do I hire someone to do visual effects?
Hiring a freelance VFX editor isn’t difficult if you know the right questions to ask. Ask potential candidates about the following:
- The software they use: A good VFX editor should be familiar with software such as Adobe AfterEffects, Adobe Premiere Pro, and Final Cut Pro.
- How many projects they worked on previously: Your freelance visual effects editor should have plenty of experience working on previous projects, and be able to point to examples of their work.
- Their VFX inspirations: Ask potential VFX editors about the films or videos that inspire their work, to get a sense of their style.
How much does visual effect work cost?
Because VFX needs vary greatly by project, the cost of a freelance visual effects editor will depend on the scope of your production. You will need someone who has both the technical abilities to create impressive visual and special effects and the communication skills to work with you and your production’s other VFX specialists. The more experience a visual effects editor has, the more likely they are to charge you a higher rate. Also, VFX editors with specialized experience – working in a specific niche, for example – may also charge a higher rate.
What are the types of VFX services?
Visual effects are a wide spectrum. They can refer to a variety of different services, and it’s important that you know which service you need for your project when hiring a freelance VFX editor. Some of the most common types of visual effects services include:
- Computer-generated imagery (CGI)
- Stop motion animation
- Virtual cinematography
- Color grading
- Motion control photography
- Digital compositing
What is special effects animation?
Special effects animation is the use of 2D and 3D animation software and techniques to create realistic visual images that enhance a film, video game, presentation, or other production. As a sub-field of graphic arts, special effects animation requires both artistic skill and technical abilities. Someone who creates SFX animation usually has a degree in animation or visual effects.