Character FX Artist

Strands of hair floating on the breeze, muscles extending and contracting as someone runs, fur matting together in the pouring rain, a pair of pants crumpling to the floor — these actions (and more!) are the responsibility of a character FX artist.

Role and responsibilities of a CFX artist in visual effects may include:

• Set up and adjust hair, cloth, and fur simulations with direction from the Department Supervisor/Lead using relevant software (see below)
• Complete character FX work on a shot-per-shot basis
• Check for and fix penetration and intersection problems
• Check for and address any continuity issues
• Develop automated workflows for character setups
• Communicate effectively with surrounding departments (animation, modelling, surfacing, and rigging) as needed to continually improve simulations
• Become proficient with all relevant department tools, suggesting improvements and optimizations if/when necessary
• Taking on and executing creative briefs and feedback from Leads and Supervisors to execute assigned tasks and shots
• Ongoing communication with Production and Leads regarding schedules and deadlines
• Ensure all shot assets can be cached to be picked up downstream (in lighting and/or comp)

CFX artists require a mix of technical, creative skills, and interpersonal skills. The VFX industry is a highly collaborative environment — a single shot will often travel through multiple departments before being finaled — so CFX artists must be able to work well in a team and have a solid understanding of the VFX pipeline.

Recruiters may look for the following skills when hiring a character FX artist:

• Houdini experience: setting up and running quality simulations (demonstrated via showreel) and working knowledge of simulation concepts
• Understanding of muscle and skin simulation
• Understanding of anatomy and form in motion
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and work under pressure to meet tight deadlines and rapid turnaround times
• A solid understanding of the VFX post-production pipeline
• Highly collaborative and a team player
• Problem-solving abilities with an analytical mindset
• Organized, particularly with asset management (including naming systems)
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• High-level attention to detail 
• Experience making model corrections for shot finalization
• An interest and aptitude for learning new software