EFFECTS TECHNICAL DIRECTOR
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What is FX TD?
FX Technical Directors (FX TDs) mainly create physics-based effects such as fire, smoke, water and various kinds of destruction. Sometimes an FX TD will be called upon to create non-physically realistic effects such as magical spells or physically impossible objects. Whatever the FX TD is creating, the basis will almost always reference a real-world simulation or object. Because of this, a good FX TD must have a great eye for motion, as well as an analytical mind and, because simulations often take a long time, perseverance and patience. The best FX TDs combine artistic and technical skills.
Our 12-Month Program
Our accredited Effects Technical Director (FX TD) Diploma is an intensive 12 month program, preparing you to work within Effects (FX) departments on high end feature film & episodic visual effects (VFX) productions. This program is the first of its kind, unparalleled in the depth of its highly specialized knowledge. The curriculum also compliments core craft skills by training students in advanced Houdini workflows while developing problem solving, time management, and career soft skills setting a foundation for long term career success.
What You Will Learn | Curriculum
These are the core concepts that will be covered in our Effects Technical Director program using the industry standard software from SideFX called Houdini. Our curriculum evolves and adapts to fit Industry needs.
Procedural Geometry & Shading >
FLIP (Fluids) >
Pyrotechnics >
Destruction (RBD) >
Particles >
Soft Body Dynamics >
Our Teaching Philosophy
We are firm believers that it is not proficiency in a certain software that makes a good effects artist, but rather the ability to continually problem solve and adapt to the task at hand.
It is the business of the FX TD to analyze natural phenomena and replicate them as photo-realistically as possible. The first skill essential to complete this task is a trained eye that is able to discern the characteristics and qualities of those natural phenomena. From lightning bolts to smoke plumes, to the intricate behaviour of a school of fish, developing a sense for breaking apart what drives nature is the centerpiece of an FX TD’s education and lifelong skill set.
Probably even more important is the skill of problem solving. A good FXTD will have to train their mind in the ways of critical thinking and structured troubleshooting of complex systems. Therefore, we focus on teaching the skill of finding solutions to whatever the problem might be. Houdini is a unique piece of software that allows for problem solving unlike any other VFX software platform. Throughout the FXTD program, we will continually strive to eliminate the phrase “It doesn’t work” from our vocabulary and develop a firm sense that anything we set our minds to can be built virtually.
At Lost Boys we train our artists to problem solve efficiently, equip them with the power to deliver effects on time, understand and digest notes, address critical feedback, and be pro-active in their communication with teammates and supervisors. This will prepare you for any serious FX department in todays VFX-industry.
What To Expect
Practical
Practical
Theory
Theory
Reference
Reference
Industry Insight
Industry Insight
Review
Weekly Reviews
Career Prep
Career Prep
Alumni Success
Graduates from our Effects Technical Director Program (FX TD) have been involved in projects that have shaped the world of entertainment. The main goal is to give our students the tools and skills to thrive in a studio-like environment in preparations to complete major featured films and television shows. Our alumni have been accredited over 100 films and continue to shape the industry with their artistry in an ever-expanding field.
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Admission Info
Academic Start Dates
We are currently running Spring and Fall intakes – Contact us for specifics, be sure to share site and program.
What We Look For...
The following criteria provides a general idea of what we look for in the personal letter and portfolio that you must submit in the application process. It is important to note that the quality of these items are considered together with the general requirements needed to apply to Lost Boys.
In your personal letter, we want to know about you as a person and your feelings towards visual effects, movies, film-making, art, design, or technology. Be sure to share with us why you have chosen this program and what research you have done. Also, illustrate to us your ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team environment. Remember, this is your time to really tell us all about you so feel free to go all out!
Your portfolio should be 6–8 pieces of your best work in any medium that demonstrates your artistic proficiency. It can include photography, drawing, comic or graphic design, painting, sculpture, website design, and/or digital imagery.
Prior 3D experience is certainly beneficial for the admission process as the FX TD program requires 3D skills, but not necessary. Above all else we are looking for an artistic eye, attention to detail, a good understanding of motion and composition.
Tuition Costs
Our Advanced FX TD Program is a unique curriculum that is not offered anywhere else. From our veteran instructors who have moved the visual effects industry forward to our project-based learning system, Lost Boys provides the best education to aspiring artists who seek a position in the VFX industry. We are confident that the investment you make will be rewarding.