VFX Department - Screen Ireland

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Screen Guilds of Ireland Competency Framework

1Screen Guilds of Ireland Competency Framework

VFXDepartment

Copyright © 2022 Fís Éireann/Screen Ireland. All rights reserved.


Accounts Department

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Roles

1. VFX Producer

2. VFX Supervisor

3. VFX Coordinator

4. VFX On-Set Supervisor

5. VFX Lead Data Wrangler

6. VFX Data Wrangler

7. VFX Trainee


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VFX Department

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Visual Effects (VFX) Producer

The VFX Producer is primarily responsible for all financial aspects of the VFX Department. This includes the budgeting of shots and distributing them to successful vendors. They will also create a VFX breakdown as a method of clarifying the shots that are allowed or budgeted for and to avoid those that are not. All costings, whether they be crew hire budgets, shot budgets, and postproduction cost budgets will all be overseen and monitored, or signed off by the VFX Producer.

Key tasks:

1. Controls the VFX budgets.

2. Evaluates and selects VFX vendors.

3. Maintainsfinancialcontrolandkeepsthebudgetwithin permitted perimeters.

4. Overseesfinancialcostsofcrewhire.

5. Liaises with other Producers re: budgets and costings.


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Task statementsTask statement 1:

Controls the VFX budgets.

Associated activities

Managespendingoftheallocatedbudgetacrossthedepartment.Wide understandingof pre-production,shooting andpost-productionprocessin orderto allocate thecorrectamountsrequired.

Access the feasibilityof thebudgetonaproject: breakdown script,researchtax creditsindifferentterritories,cost allelements

in the script.

UnderstandotherdepartmentsandhowtheymayassistinreducinganyVFXcosts.Debate andnegotiateVFXandotherdepartmentbudgetsto promotefair usageof fundsto achievethedirectorsoverall

desiredeffect.

Task statement 2:

Evaluate and select VFX vendors most suited to VFX shots.


Negotiatescostingsandfeeswithpost-productionfacilitiesandawardshotsaccordingly.

Knowledgeofthecreativeprocessrequireddespitecosts:howlongashotcantaketoreachcompletion,manpower,skill

and thecostoftime.Knowledgeoftheavailablepostcrewandtheirskillsetandforte.

Communicateswithvendorsandtheirkeyemployees.

Task statement 3:

Maintains financial control and keeps the budget within permitted perimeters.


Throughavarietyofavenues,andaccesstofinances;offersasuitable,workablebudgettosuittheproject.

Maintainstightcontroloverspendingastimegoesonbyliaisingwithsetsupervisors,keyHeadsofDepartments,Producers,DirectorsandHeadsofFinance.

Understandstaxrelief,additionalfinancialincentivesdependingonthecountryyou’reshootingin,aswellastheproduction base.

UnderstandstheroleofthewiderProducersand anypotentiallimitationstheymighthave(funding/governmentalrestrictions/countryrelatedlimitationsetc.

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Task statement 4:

Oversees financial costs of crew hire.


Assessescrewmembersforemployment: readCVs,shortlists,suggestingtoHODs,interviews.

Manageshours,timesheetsandovertime.

Is involved in the interview process and rates depending on the individual crew role.

Knowledgeofunionratesandexpectations.

Task statement 5:

Liaises with other Producers regarding budgets and costings.


ParticipatesinallbudgetcallswithProducers.

Makesrecommendationsofpotentialchangestothescripttoassistinmakingthebudgetmorefeasible(recommendationsbased on assumptions).

Recces–negotiateswhattheDirectorwantsversuswhatcanbeafforded,ensurestheradiusworksandthatthe LocationManagercanfacilitatetheservicingoflocationandreducemoves,assessriggingneeds.

CommunicateswithProducersandkeepsthemuptodatewithongoingcostingchanges.

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Area IndicatorsTechnical Knowledge Extensiveknowledgeofcameraandlightingtechniques–thoroughunderstanding

oflight,colour,shadeandmanipulation

Indepthunderstandingofallmotionpictureequipment–cameras,lenses,monitors

ExpertknowledgeofiriscontrolandtheDITsystem

Skilltomaketechnicalcreativedecisionsinordertorealisethecreativevisionofthe

Directorandtellthestory

UnderstandingofVFXneedsonalllevels:needforofficespace/truck/screening

room,equipment,blue screens,riggers,crewsupport,accesstopowerandWiFietc.

Understandingofscriptbreakdowns

Understandingofshootingschedules,thehowandwhybehindthem

SkillsinExcel,Word,possiblyaccountingsoftware.

Digital Skills AbilitytouseFilemakerPro,Satelliteorotherwranglingapps

AbilitytouseExcel,Word,andappslikeMy Measures,Tentacle,Box,my3DScanner,Insta360Pro,QTAKEamongothers

Management Abilitytomanageworkflowonset,communicatingeffectivelywithotherdepartments Abilitytoworkwithintheconfinesofascheduleandbudget

Abilitytoremaincalmunderpressure,criticalthinking

AbilitytomanageinternalVFXcrew,traineesandkeycrew

H&S Competency Awarenessofscissorlift/Manitou,useofbluescreensandscaffoldingwhenapplyingtrackingmarkerstolargeandextralargescreens

Laddersafetyandgeneralsetprotocolaroundelectricalwiringandcables

Administrative Skills Cancriticallyevaluateeachscriptandbreakitdowntoassessrequirementssuchasbluescreenneeds,potentialVFXshots,practicalelements,needformake-upFXandmodelmakingFX,stuffies(replicasofanyanimatedcreatures/castforreference)

Streamlineaccesstofiles,ensuringattentiontodetailonpapertrail

Understandingoffilingsystemsaspervariouspostproductionhouses,camelcaseandsuitabilityasperdifferentVFXsoftware

Knowledge of techniques and conventions of film making

Canshowunderstandingoftechniquesandconventionsoffilmmaking

Abilitytousewhat’sathandtomaketheshotworke.g.trackingmarkers,eyelinesforVFX(invisible)creatures

UseofpracticaltoolstoassistintheshootingofVFXelementse.g.halfswordsforbladeextension/throwingaknife/rockatanothercast-droprockmidshotandaddCGinpost/paint/revealtricketc.

Budget management skills Hasfantasticinterpersonalandconflictresolutionskills

Hasexpertdepartmental,equipment,technicalandtimemanagementknowledge

Hastheabilitytobalancetheproductionbudget/feasibilities/financialparametersetc.

alongside the Director's artistic visionEnsuring best value on screen. Ensuring deadlines can be met and contracts adhered to Canassessprojectrequirements

Isskilledinnegotiatingonprice,assessingvalueandqualityformoney

Technical competencies


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VFX Supervisor

The VFX Supervisor is the most creative role within the department. They are involved in realizing the overall look of the VFX shots, and bringing any of the Director's visions to life. They are responsible for all post work and will usually move into post-production supervision once shooting has completed. They will be in constant communication with post-production during shooting as the pipeline of work develops.

Key tasks:

1. WorkscloselywiththeDirector,ArtDirectorandotherdepartmentstorealisethelookoftheshow.

2. Createsapipelineforpost-production.

3. IdentifieshowaVFXshotmustbeexecutedwithinbudget as per the VFX Producer.

4. LeadstooverallcreativelookoftheVFXshots.

5. WorkswiththerestoftheVFXteamtoseeeachshot through.


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Works closely with the Director, Art Director and other departments to realise the look of the show.


IstheprimarycontactregardingallthingsVFXfromacreativelevel.

Knowledgeoftheinternalbudgetingoftheshow.

Attendsmeetings,calls,andcreativediscussions.

Createsanddevelopspre-visfromDirector’sstoryboards.

Task statement 2:

Creates a pipeline for post-production.


Is involved in thecreating andexecutionof thepipeline forpost,delivery of shotsthroughout theshootandaftershooting wraps.

Goesthroughshotlists,andgivesfeedbacktopost-productionhouses,andindividualteams.

TranscribestheDirector’srequestsandvisiontothepostteamtoachievehis/herdesiredlook.

ReportsbacktotheDirectorforfeedbackandcommunicatesanythingthatneedstweakingetc.

Task statement 3:

Identifies how a VFX shot must be executed within budget as per the VFX Producer.


DirectsanyspecificVFXshotsduringsetupandfilmingtosupportandassistworkinpost-production.

WorkswiththeonsetsupervisortoshootvariousreferencesforVFXasrequiredbyposteg.ballsandcharts,lightingpasses,cleanplates,HDRI etc.

Understandstherequirementsofpost-productioncrews.

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Task statement 4:

Controls the overall creative look of the VFX shots.


SupportsthecreativevisionoftheDirectorwhileconsideringbudgetrestraintsandvariousotherlimitations.

AttendsmeetingsandapproachestheDirectoratsuitabletimesforfeedback/clarification.SuppliestheDirectorwithvisuals/conceptdrawings/pre-visetc.toallowgreaterunderstandingandinsighttohis/hervision. Hasexperienceindealingwithcreativetypes,theirstrengthsandhowyoucansupporttheprocessthroughyourownstrength.

Task statement 5:

Works with the rest of the VFX team to see each shot through.


CommunicatesanyanswerstotheDirectorshouldtherebeany.

WorkscloselywiththeVFXProducerregardingissuesthatmayarise.

Discussesfine-tuningofartwork/3Dcomps/3Delements/assets.

Discussestextures,lighting,animationofandcompositingdraftsandworktowardsfinalisingeachshottothehighestspec.

HasadeepknowledgeoftheVFXpost-productionprocess,designing,building,colouring,texturing,animationandcompositing.

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Area IndicatorsTechnical Knowledge Extensiveknowledgeofcameraandlightingtechniques–thoroughunderstandingof

light,colour,shadeandmanipulation

Indepthunderstandingofallmotionpictureequipment–cameras,lenses,monitors,

iriscontrolandtheDITsystem



UnderstandingofVFXneedsonalllevels e.g.needforblue/greenscreens,ballsandcharts,references,HDRIs,cleanplate

Abilitytobreakdownscripts

UnderstandingoftheschedulingprocessandtheneedsandrequirementsfromADs(timepereachshotrequiringVFXetc.)

SomeabilitytouseExcel,Maya,Houdini,Blaze,PTGui,thoughnotessential

Knowledgeofuseofscreens,LEDs,Translights,Backdropsetc.

Abilitytoenvisageashotanditstechnicaloutcome

Management Abilitytomanageworkflowonset,communicatingeffectivelywithotherdepartments

Abilitytoworkwithintheconfinesofascheduleandbudget


AbilitytomanageinternalVFXcrew,traineesandkeycrew

Abilitytothinkquickly,addressanyunexpectedissuesandproblemsolveonset,under

pressure and with little or no time

H&S Competency Awarenessofscissorlift/Manitou,useofbluescreensandscaffoldingwhenapplyingtrackingmarkerstolargeandextralargescreens

Laddersafetyandgeneralsetprotocolaroundelectricalwiringandcables

Administrative Skills Cancriticallyevaluateeachscriptandbreakitdowntoassessrequirementssuchasbluescreenneeds,potentialVFXshots,practicalelements,needformake-upFXandmodelmakingFX,stuffies(replicasofanyanimatedcreatures/castforreference)


Understandingoffilingsystemsaspervariouspost-productionhouses,camelcaseand suitabilityasperdifferentVFXsoftware



Hasathoroughunderstandingofalldepartmentsandthegradeswithin

HasathoroughunderstandingoftheWorkingTimeAct,mealbreakrulesand

turnaroundrequirements


Hasexpertdepartmental,equipment,andtechnicalandtimemanagementknowledge

Hastheabilitytobalancetheproductionbudget/feasibilities/financialparametersetc.

alongside the Director's artistic vision

Ensuring best value on screen

Ensuring deadlines can be met and contracts adhered to



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VFX Coordinator

The VFX Coordinator works primarily off set in an organizational and administrative capacity. The Coordinator provides support for the whole VFX team and works closest with the VFX Supervisor and Producer. They would also liaise with the VFX on-set team and VFX vendors. They require excellent communication skills, and knowledge of several other departments, especially the green screen team, Art Department, Construction, Production and others.

Key tasks:

1. Assists the VFX Supervisor and VFX Producer andperformsanytasksasinstructedtoensurethesmoothexecutionofVFXshots.

2. PartakesinmeetingswiththeSupervisorandpostcrewinasupportive,administrativerole

3. Potentiallyberesponsibleforuploadingofallfiles,drawingsordatatospecifichouses.

4. Coordinatesthelogisticsofreferenceandsurveysofsets and props.

5. Potentiallycontinuesintothesupportiveroleaftershooting has been wrapped.

6. OrganisesandarrangesallVFXcrewfortravellingoverseasifnecessary.

7. Liaises with editorial and post-production and assistswithpre-vis/cutsetc.distribution.


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Assists the VFX Supervisor and VFX Producer and performs any tasks as instructed to ensure the smooth execution of VFX shots.


Followsinstructionsaccordingtotheirrequestsremeetings/logistics/transport/personalrequests.

Occasionallyworkswithtransporttoarrangemovementofcrewoutsideshootinghours.

WorkswithtransportinarrangingofVFXtruck/portableofficeandwhereitwillbeplacesonlocations

ArrangesWiFisetupforVFXcrew.

Logsupcomingmeetings/reviews/notesfromotherkeyshootingcrewandpostcrew.

Task statement 2:

Partakes in meetings with the Supervisor and post crew in a supportive, administrative role.


Takesnotesandarrangemeetingsduringcalls/Zooms/meetings.

Addressesanyextrarequirementse.g.bluescreens,lightingrigsrequired,locationstoshootVFXelements.

Addressesneedforspacewithinastudiofornon-setshootinge.g. 360scanningrigs,texturephotographystudiosetup,

officespaceforextracrew.

Followsuponextra requirements forVFXe.g. scanningofsets,cast,props.

Logsandmanageslistsforplatestobeshottocompintobluescreensetc.

Task statement 3:

When necessary, is responsible for uploading all files, drawings or data to specific houses.


ReceivesfilesandfootagefromWranglersandforwardstovariouspost-productionhouses.

UnderstandingofVFXterminology.

DevisesasuitablefilelabellingsystemtosuitbothlocalVFXteamandwidercrewinpost.

Understandsfilingstructures,CamelCase,filetreesetups.

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Coordinates the logistics of reference and surveys of sets and props.


Liaiseswithothercrewdepartmentsanddevisesashootingplanforprops,textures,scansetc.

Understandsofhowthesetworksandtimeconstraintsregardingalldepartments.

Keepspost-productionhousesuptodatewithtasksdue.

Gathers props at appropriate times in tandem with their need on set.

LiaiseswithADstoarrangestreamliningofcastscanningandavailabilityofcast.

LiaiseswithLocationscrewtoarrangescanningofEXTsets,atvariouslocationsawayfromstudio.

ArrangesandassistsintheshootingofElementsdays,andmanagesthevariousdepartmentsinvolved-e.g.SFX,Props,Standbysetc.

Task statement 5:

Potentially continues into the supportive role after shooting has been wrapped.


Continuesgatheringandorganisingdataaftershootingcrewhavewrapped.

Communicatesregularlyregardingdailytasksandspecificrequirementsfrompost-productionhouses. AttendsZooms,meetingsandarrangescalendarsforupcomingmeetingsandappointments.

Task statement 6:

Organises and arranges all VFX crew for travelling overseas if necessary.


InformsVFXcrewofrequirementsregardingpackingandshippinggearforoverseasshooting. PreparesdestinationforincomingVFXcrew.

Managescrewneedsfromdistancebeforearrival.

Organizescarnetforshipping/transportation.

Task statement 7:

Liaises with Editorial and post-production and assists with pre-vis/cuts etc. distribution.


Uploadsanddispersesfootagereceivedtochiefcrew.

ManagesthedistributionofpreviousshotstoDirectors/Producersasrequested

FollowsuponlensgridfootageviaDITandEditorial.

PlaysasupportiveroleinanyextrarequestsfromVFXpost-production,whichmayimpactshootingschedulee.g.needfor Elementsshootdaysetc.

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Area IndicatorsTechnical Knowledge Basicknowledgeofcameraandlightingtechniques–thoroughunderstandingoflight,colour,

shadeandmanipulationishelpful,butnotalwaysnecessary

Indepthunderstandingofallmotionpictureequipment–cameras,lenses,monitors,


SkilltomaketechnicalcreativedecisionsinordertorealisethecreativevisionoftheDirector

andtellthestory

UnderstandingofVFXneedsonalllevelse.g.needforblue/greenscreens,ballsand

charts,references,HDRIs,cleanplate

Knowledgeofuseofscreens,LEDs,translights,backdropsetc.


KnowledgeofShotgunisahelpbutnotnecessary

Digital Skills AbilitytouseFilemakerPro,Satelliteorotherwranglingapps

KeysoftwareskillsusingExcel/Word/Pix/Aspera/MyMeasureshelpfulbutnotalwaysnecessary

Photographyskillsarehelpfulbutnotalwaysnecessary



Abilitytoremaincalmunderpressure

Punctualityandreliability

Willingnesstoworklonghoursandbeavailablebeforeandaftercalltimes.

Problemsolvingandanticipatingissuesfromcrewonapersonallevel(e.g.orderingtaxis,

food,bookings)andissuesduringshootingonlocation-e.g.needforpower,WiFietc.

H&S Competency HasreadandcanunderstandtheH&SStatementandknowswhatappliestotheVFXdepartment

HasshownabilitytofollowHealthandSafetyprotocolsonsetandlocation

Administrative Skills Cancriticallyevaluateeachscriptandbreakitdowntoassessrequirements


Supplythelatestscriptshouldacrewmemberrequireit

Supplyhardcopiesoftimesheet/mileageforms/traveldocs/passportphotosetc.

asrequiredorrequestedbyproduction


Hasexpertdepartmental,equipment,technicalandtimemanagementknowledge

Hastheabilitytobalancetheproductionbudget/feasibilities/financialparameters

etc.alongside the Director's artistic vision

Budgetdevelopment



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VFX On-Set Supervisor

The VFX On-Set Supervisor role is both creative and technical. In the absence of the VFX Supervisor, the On-Set Supervisor is the key representative on the VFX team on set. The On-Set Supervisor is responsible for liaising with other departments for the smooth execution of the VFX shots. They must also work with the VFX team to communicate the requirements to the Wrangler. They should have a clear idea of the methodology for each shot and communicate that to other departments, including the VFX team. They should hold enough knowledge of the VFX processes, to be able to make decisions on the spot, when required.

Key tasks:

1. WorkscloselywiththeSupervisorandCoordinatorinpreppingscreens/setsforupcomingshots.

2. SupervisetheVFXshotsonsetastheyarebeingfilmed.

3. SupportsandinformstheWranglerastoanydatarequiredattimeofshooting.

4. LiaiseswithDirectorwhennecessaryandensurescompliance with the creative process.

5. Acknowledgesbudgetconstraintsandmonitorsshotsaccordingly.

6. SupportstheVFXSupervisor'srequestsregardinglimitations or otherwise on set.


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Work closely with the Supervisor and Coordinator in prepping for upcoming shots.


FollowthedirectionoftheSupervisorandCoordinator.

Supervisethesettingupofbluescreens,lightingrigs,locationsandotherelementsasrequired.

Understandtheroleofotherdepartmentsincreatingthenecessaryeffects.

LiaisewithotherinvolveddepartmentstosetupscenestofacilitateVFXshots-electrical,locations,props,SFXetc.

WritereccereportsordailyreportstokeepallrelevantVFXpersonnelinformedonthecurrentgoingson.

Task statement 2:

Supervise the VFX shots on set as they are being filmed.


WillhaveacquiredanexcellentknowledgeoftheprocessesinvolvedwhileshootinganyspecificVFXshotonset.

UnderstandtimeconstraintswithintheshootingdayandcallforadditionaltimeforVFXwiththisinmind.

DevelopskillsincommunicationofVFXneedsforspecificshotsandtotherelevantpeople,aheadoftheevent.

Keepcomposureandprofessionalismwhileactuallyshootingtheheroshotandunderstandotherdepartmentswillhaveother

priorities-guidethecrewasateamtowardsachievingwhat’sneededfortheshot.

Beprepared,andalwayshaveaplanBshouldsomeelementsbeagainstyouduringtheshot(e.g.weather/cast/crew/time).

Task statement 3:

Support and inform the Wrangler of any data at time of shooting.


CommunicatewiththeWrangleronsettoensuretheyareawareofwhatdataneedstobeloggedforeachshot.

TeachandassistthemindevelopingtheirownskillsasaWrangler.

UnderstandthelevelofskilleachWranglerhasanddelegateworkappropriately.

Explainonawiderscale,theneedforpreciseanddetailednotesandansweranyquestionsregardingpostandhowwranglingaffectspost-production.

UnderstandthepressuresaWranglermightbeunderandassistinsupportingthemandpotentiallyundertakingsometasksyourself.

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Task statement 4:

Liaise with Director when necessary and ensure compliance with the creative process.


EstablishandmaintainasupportiveandtrustworthyrelationshipwiththeDirector.

EnsureanunderstandingoftheDirector’svisionthroughconversationanddiscussionduringprepandonset.

OfferoptionstotheDirectorastohowtheircreativevisioncanberealizedthroughVFXmethodology.

Informhim/herofanynegativeinfluenceaVFXshootingmethodmayhaveandsupplythemwithoptionsoralternatives.

WhilefollowingtheDirectors’creativewishes,keepinmindanypreviousdiscussionsandagreements.

Task statement 5:

Acknowledge budget constraints and monitor shots accordingly.


Understandthebudgetconstraintsforeachshot.

Understandtheoverallbudgetandthefinancialimplicationsforeachshot.

Knowwhentoflagifsomethingisgoingbeyondtheplannedbudget.

ConsiderpreviousdiscussionsandagreementswhenconsideringanunplannedshotandreporttotheProducerwhennecessary.

Whilesomeadditionalshotsmaybeassumedduringthecourseofshooting,it’simportanttoalwaysworktowardskeeping

expectedandunexpectedcostswithinreason.

Ifyousay“yes”toanewshot, besureitcanbeachievedintheedit,technicallyandfinancially.

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Task statement 6:

Support the VFX Supervisor's requests regarding limitations or otherwise on set.


Understand the given limitations on set.

Beabletoexplainsaidlimitations.

BepresenttovoicetheselimitationsandensurethattheyareupheldintheabsenceoftheVFXSupervisor.

Writeareportattheendofeverydayandmentionanyissuesorupsetsonsetduringshootingtosupportyourworkandto

keeprecord.


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Area IndicatorsTechnical Knowledge Extensiveknowledgeofcameraandlightingtechniques–thoroughunderstandingof

light,colour,shadeandmanipulation

Indepthunderstandingofallmotionpictureequipment–cameras,lenses,monitors




UnderstandingofVFXneedsonalllevelsregardingpost-production-elementshoots

required,needforscanningetc.

Abilitytobreakdownascript

Understandingofschedules

UnderstandingofWord,Aspera,Pixwouldbehelpful



KnowledgeofShotgunhelpfulbutnotnecessary

Digital Skills AbilitytouseFilemakerPro,Setelliteorotherwranglingappshelpfulbutnotnecessary

Word,Pix,Aspera,Premiere,allhelpful




Willingnesstoworklonghoursandbeavailablebeforeandaftercalltimes

DeeperknowledgeofbudgetingandthepotentialfinancialoutcomesofextraVFXshots

beingfilmed

H&S Competency AbasicunderstandingofgeneralHealthandSafetyonsetishelpful

Administrative Skills Cancriticallyevaluateeachscriptandbreakitdowntoassessrequirementssuchasblue/greenscreens,elementsrequired(SFXflames/locationplatesetc.)

Streamlineaccesstofileslikecallsheets,reccereports,photosusingfolders,GoogleDocs,Boxetc.sothey’reeasilyaccessibleatshortnotice

Potentiallylogandaddresstheneedforvariouselementslikeplates,elementsetc.

Budget management skills Budgetdevelopment

Hasexpertdepartmental,equipment,technicalandtimemanagementknowledge.

HastheabilitytobalancetheVFXbudget/feasibilities/financialparametersetc.

alongsidetheDirector’sartisticvision.

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VFX Lead Data Wrangler

The VFX Lead Data Wrangler role includes all those of the Wrangler, but extends to a wider level of knowledge relating to post production and file management requirements. The Lead Wrangler takes responsibility for designing the wrangling process for a particular job, after consulting with the key post-production houses and their specific requirements. They are responsible for the management and working of the other Wranglers and often additional VFX crew as well as wrangling themselves on-set. The Lead is responsible for all data from all Wranglers and its organised, timely and personalised accumulation relating to the post-production houses requests.

Key tasks:

1. PerformsallthedutiesofDataWrangler.

2. Createsthedatabasefromscratchincludingallrelevantcameradetailsfortheshoot.

3. Excellentknowledgeofthepost-productionprocessandspecificrequirementsrelatingtoashot.

4. OrganisesandmanagesallWrangler'sdata,prepares,anddistributestovarioushouses/Producersetc.

5. WorkscloselywiththeSetSupervisorandVFXPostProduction Manager.

6. IsinvolvedintheinterviewingandhiringofadditionalVFX crew.


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Performs all the duties of Data Wrangler.


Providesthepost-productionteamwithwhattheywillrequiresuchastextures,photogrammetry,HDRI,references,photographs,

camerasetupphotos,setrefsetc.

Worksonaliveset,liaiseswiththeappropriatedepartmentsandunderstandswhenandhowtogathertheinformationyou need.

ReadsasetandthoseincommandofthesettoknowtheappropriatetimetoexecuterequiredVFXmaterial.

Task statement 2:

Creates the database from scratch including all relevant camera details for the shoot.


BuildsorreorganisesaVFXdatabaseandpreparesforuseduringshooting.

Provisionofpersonalkit/database.

UnderstandswhatwillberequiredonsetHDRI kit,ballsandcharts,witnesscameras,stuffies,varioustools,trackingmarkers. Liaiseswiththecamerateamattheearlystagesofprepregardinglensgrids,lensserialnumbers,cameranumbersetc.

UnderstandinghowCameraDepartmentworksishelpfultogatherbettercameradata,workingwiththecamerateamand

buildinga goodworkingrelationship.

Task statement 3:

Excellent knowledge of the post production process and specific requirements relating to a shot.


SpendstimewithavarietyofVFXSupervisorsandpost-productionhouses.

UnderstandsofVFXterminology.

UnderstandstheneedorlackofneedforvariousVFXelementsduringshootingshouldtherebenoVFXSupervisorpresent.

Understandstheset,protocolonset,theconstraintsoftimeandtheneedforpromptactionduringtheshotwhenit

comes to getting the elements VFX needs.

Understandstheneedforacleanplate,whatthatmeanse.g.removingrigwiresoutofshot.

Explainstothecameraoperatorsandfocuspullerswhatisrequirede.g.fortiling,andplatesetc.

PotentiallyguidestheOperatorandFocusPullertomaintainfluiditywhileshootingplateswithoutactors.

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Task statement 4:

Organise and manage all Wranglers' data, prepare, and distribute to various houses/Producers etc.


Gathersandpreparesallrelevantcameradataintospecificdatabases.

Referstocameranotesandcontinuitynoteswhenneededtodoublecheckdata.

Organisesfilesandphotosintocertainfoldersandfilingsystemsaspre-arrangedduringprep.

Gathersandpreparesallphotographyetc.unlesstaskisundertakenbyotherVFXcrewmembers.

Understandshowdifferentpost-productionhousesmayprefercertainfilingstructuresoverothers.

Backsupandbacksupagainalldatagathered,habitually.

Learnstobeefficientinyourwork,usingdowntimeduringthedaytoorganisefilesratherthanaddhoursafterwork,off

theclock.

Task statement 5:

Works closely with the Set Supervisor and VFX Post Production Manager.


Assistsinsuperiorsneedsinrelationtoshootingrequirements,suchasevenaskingthemiftheyneedacoffee,orfoodasthey

willoftenhavebeenworkinglate.

Isreadytoorganisescreensandtrackingmarkersasinstructedatshortnoticeonset.

Sendsdailyreportstopost-productioncrewandVFXeditorial.

Communicatesregularlyregardingdailytasksandspecificrequirements-e.g.plates,textures,scanningetc.

IspreparedtosupervisethesetintheabsenceofSetSupervisor.

CommunicateswiththeDirectorand1stADkeepingthemintheloopofandVFXneeds-plates,HDRIs,tilesetc.

Task statement 6:

Involved in the interviewing and hiring of additional VFX crew.


Ispresentduringinterviewstohirenecessarycrewbearinginmindcrewgrades,rates,requiredtechnicalability,andindustrystandardworkingconditions.

Understandswhichdaysmayrequireadditionalcrewandliaiseswithproducerandsetsupervisorforpossibilityof

extrahelpnecessary.

Informsadditionalcrewofwhatisrequiredofthemduringtheinterviewandthereafter.

Iswillingtoconstantlybeateacher,oftenworkingwithTraineesbothexperiencedandveryinexperienced.

UnderstandstheTraineecrews'limitationyetencouragegrowthandlearning.

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Area IndicatorsTechnical Knowledge IriscontrolandtheDITsystem

SkilltomaketechnicalcreativedecisionsinordertorealisethecreativevisionoftheDirectorandtellthestory

UnderstandingofVFXneedsonalllevels:screens,trucks,wifi,food,coffee,misckit,

andspecialisedkit


AbilitytouseaDisto


KnowledgeofShotgun

Exceptionalknowledgeofprofessionalfullframecameras.

AbilitytotakeandunderstandHDRI,lightingrefs,photogrammetry,green/blue

screens,lenses,trackingmarkers,andotherdepartments

KnowledgeandunderstandingofthepurposeoftheonsettasktotheVFXprocess

Knowledgeofdigitalfullframecamerause

Someunderstandingofthepost-productionprocessanditsrequirements

Digital Skills AbilitytouseFilemakerPro,Setelliteorotherwranglingapps

Abilitytouseword,mymeasuresapp,photographyskills,potentiallyscanners,QTAKE,MyMeasuresAppetc.



Abilitytoremaincalmunderpressure,criticalthinking,andmultitaskingunderpressure


Problemsolvingandanticipatingissuesliketheneedfortrackingmarkers,painterspoles,etc.

H&S Competency Basichealthandsafetyknowledgeisexpected

Administrative Skills Streamlineaccesstofiles,ensuringattentiontodetailonpapertrail

FileManagementofdata,reports,hdris,textures,photogrammatory,references,scansetc.

Followingafilingmanagementlayoutaspre-determinedinprep

Crewing Knowledgeandexperienceofcrewgrades,rates,requiredtechnicalability,andindustrystandardworkingconditions

Cancheckreferencesandinterview,ensuringgenderbalanceanddiversity.

CannegotiatewithHODstoconsiderotherapplicantsforjobwherethereisarequirementtofulfillS481

Hasagooduptodateworkingknowledgeofcrew

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VFX Data Wrangler

The VFX Data Wrangler role is a technical, primarily set based role. The Wrangler takes responsibility for accumulating all relevant data relating to any VFX shot as it is being filmed. This involves liaising with certain departments, especially the Camera Department, but also standbys, hair/make-up, prosthetics etc, depending on the shot. It requires excellent “set” knowledge, as well as organisational, communication, and technical skills to name but a few.

Key tasks:

1. Gathersallsetinformation,camera,lighting,refsrelating to the VFX shot.

2. ExecutesHDRI,referenceswithballsandchartsorpropsasrequired.

3. Liaises with various departments as needed.

4. WorkscloselywithVFXOn-SetSupervisor.

5. ReportstoLeadWranglerregardingdatagatheredandpreparesfordistribution.

6. Shootphotogrammetryorset/props/actorsofthehighestquality.


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Gather all set information, camera, lighting, refs relating to the VFX shot.


Gatherscameradatainfofromfocuspuller,orlearnstoreadthecameraandmetadatadisplays.Gathersextensivedataincludinglensserialnumbers,types,focusmarks,tstops,ISO,colourtemp,tilt,lensheight,tracklength etc.EntersalldataintoaspecificdatabasesuchasFilmmakerPro,orSatelliteExecutesHDRIattheappropriatetimeandintheappropriatepositionafterthelasttakeofasetupExecutesballsandcharts,andunderstandshowandwheretoperformtheminfrontofthecameraUnderstandsthepost-productionprocessandknowledgeofwhattheywillrequireUnderstandsofthepost-productionprocessanditsrequirementsWorksonaliveset,liaiseswiththeappropriatedepartmentsandunderstandswhenandhowtogathertheinformationyouneed. ReadsasetandthoseincommandofthesettoknowtheappropriatetimetoexecuterequiredVFXmaterial.

Task statement 2:

Executes HDRI, references with balls and charts or props as required.


Understandsthecamera,bracketing,timingoftheshotsforHDRIandtheexposurelevelsrequired.Suppliesandpresentsthe50/50BallandMcBethcharttothecameraasrequiredtorecordlightingrefsforpost.Potentiallypresentsstuffiesetc.tothecameraforshootingrefsoftexturesorshapesduetobeanimatedattheendofthesetup. Understandslighting,andwhatchangesmayprompttheneedforadditionalHDRIsandreferences.Provisionofpersonalkitorabilitytouseothersprovided.LiaiseswithSetDecorating/Props/ArtDepartmentaboutrequiredrefmaterialorsetaccess.Buildsasuitableenvironmenttoshootprops.

Task statement 3:

Liaises with various departments as needed.


Supportsthecamerateaminperformingtestsasrequiredbyparticularpost-productionhouse.Carries out grid testing and grain tests.Suggestsanyupcomingneedforscreenstothestandbysorgrips/lightingsotheycanbereadyatshortnotice.

QueriesanyissueswithSetStandbyregardinghidingunwantedcables/bitsofequipmentintheshotwhichVFXmayenduppainting out.Followsupwithcontinuityregardinglabellingoftakes/shotsifnecessaryandincludingtheCameraClapperLoaderInformstheADsofanyextrarequirementssuchascleanplatesetc.FollowsupwithVideoAssistforanyscreengrabsofshotsrequired.MaintainstheneedforcameradatatobedisplayedonQTAKE,withrespecttotheDirectorofPhotography(DOP),videoassistdepts,DITandCameraDepartment.

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Task statement 4:

Works closely with VFX On-Set Supervisor.


UnderstandsthepreferredmethodologyoftheSupervisorandSetSupervisor.

Assistshim/herwithanyrequirementssuchaswater,food,coffee,screens,trackingmarkers,etc.

Mentalstaminaandabilitytoconcentrateespeciallyduringdifficultweather,withmultiplecameras,lackofvideopicture,

fastshootingandtechnicaldifficulties.

Task statement 5:

Reports to Lead Wrangler regarding data gathered and prepares for distribution.


Submitsallphotosandreferencesintherequiredfiletreeforpost-productionandreadyforuploading.

Gathersthecameradatainaclearandconcisefashion.

Usesvariousversions/typesofWranglerdatabasessuchasSatellite,orFilemakerPro.

Workscloselywithcamerateamregardinglenses/technicalchanges.

Organisesdataflowinaclearandconcisemanner.

Preparesdataforbackup/export.

Knowledgeofvariouspost-productionfacilitiesrequirementsrefiletransferandnamingconventions.

Task statement 6:

Reports to Lead Wrangler regarding data gathered and prepares for distribution.


Positionstheactor/propaccordingly andshoottheminaccordancewithVFXguidelines.

Knowledgeofvariouspost-productionfacilitiesrequirementsrefiletransferandnamingconventions.

Shootphotogrammetryofsetsattheappropriatetime.

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Area IndicatorsTechnical Knowledge Knowledgeofuseofscreens,LEDs,Translights,Backdropsetc.


KnowledgeofShotgunishelpfulbutnotnecessary

Abilitytouseadisco

Exceptionalknowledgeofprofessionalfullframecameras

AbilitytotakeandunderstandHDRI,lightingrefs,photogrammetry,green/blue

screens,lenses,trackingmarkers,andotherdepartments.

KnowledgeandunderstandingofthepurposeoftheonsettasktotheVFXprocess.

Knowledgeofdigitalfullframecamerause.

Someunderstandingofthepostproductionprocessanditsrequirements.

GoodknowledgeofAlexaLF/FilmCamerasetc.usedforshooting

Someskillinscanningisusefulthoughnotalwaysnecessary

Knowledgeofphotogrammetrytechniques

Digital Skills AbilitytouseFilemakerPro,Setelliteorotherwranglingapps

AbilitytouseappslikeBox,GoogleDocs,Excel,MyMeasures,QTAKE,Word,Note,etc.



Abilitytoremaincalmunderpressure,criticalthinking,andmultitaskingunderpressure


Problemsolvingandanticipatingissuesliketheneedfortrackingmarkers,painterspoles,etc.

H&S Competency BasicHealthandSafetyknowledgeisexpected

Administrative Skills Streamlineaccesstofiles,ensuringattentiontodetailonpapertrail

Filemanagementofdata,reports,HDRIs,textures,photogrammetry,references,scansetc.

Followingafilingmanagementlayoutaspre-determinedinprep



Hasathoroughunderstandingofalldepartmentsandthegradeswithin

HasathoroughunderstandingoftheWorkingTimeAct,mealbreakrulesand

turnaroundrequirements

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VFX Trainee

The role of the VFX Trainee is both technical and administrative. The Trainee role may develop towards one area depending on the trainees strengths. It is a junior role and so the Trainee must be eager to learn, and be able to work under pressure both on set and within the office environment. The Trainee may be required to work with any member of the team within their role and eventually develop key skills to progress within the VFX Department.

Key tasks:

1. SupportstheVFXcrewwithanyequipmentneeds.

2. Keeps batteries charged.

3. Assistsonsetasrequired.

4. Carriesoutanyadministrativerequirements.

5. Goesonerrandstopickupanyextrakitrequired.


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Supports the VFX crew with any equipment needs.


EnsuresanyequipmentoraccesstoequipmentisopenandreadyforuseegtheVFXtruckisaccessible.

Assistsinthemovingofkit/trollys/maglinersasrequired.

Iswillingtocarryslightlyheavyequipmentifnecessary.

Isavailableandwillingtoundergoanytaskaskedofthem(withinreason).

Assistswithwrappingupgearattheendoftheday.

Isacceptingofthehoursworkedduringcamerashootingandtheextraworktobeundertakenwhencameraiswrapped.

Task statement 2:

Keeps batteries charged.


Ensuresanycamerabatteriesarechargedandreadyaswellasradiobatteries.

Knowledgeofcharginganduseofdifferentkindsofbatteries.

Responsibilityformaintaining radio,batteries,earpieces,grommetsetc.

Forwardthinkingandinitiative.

Task statement 3:

Assists on set as required.


Assistswithsuchtasksasaddingtrackingmarkerstoscreens,buildingcamerasetups,locatingtrucks,liaisingwithother

crew members.

EnsuresVFXcrewhaveeverythingtheyneedtosupportsmoothrunningthroughouttheday.

Understands crew needs.

Tendstoanycateringneedsofshootingcrewwhocan’tleaveset,likecoffees,foods,snacksetc.

Anticipatesanypotentialrequestssuchascoffee,snacks,equipmentlikestuffies,witnesscameras.

Potentiallyassistswiththeshootingofwitnesscameras.

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Task statement 4:

Carries out any administrative requirements.


COVIDtrackingforms.

Personal timesheets.

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Task statement 5:

Goes on errands to pick up any extra kit required.


Iswillingtotraveltovariouslocationstopickupordropoffkit/items.

Hasaccesstoacarandafulllicenseisbeneficial.


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Area IndicatorsTechnical Knowledge BasicunderstandingofVFXneeds;helpcarryingequipment,setupofwitnesscameras,

desk,workspaces,truck

BasicknowledgeandunderstandingofthepurposeoftheonsettasktotheVFX

process

Someunderstandingofthepost-productionprocessanditsrequirements

Cameraskillswouldbehighlybeneficial

Previousexperiencebeingonasetwouldbehighlybeneficial

H&S Competency Abasicunderstandingofthecommon-senseaspectofsafetyandawillingnesstopayheedtoanyHealthandSafetyrequestsfromrelevantcrew

Administrative/Workflow Competency

Hasdisplayedabilitytokeeptimesheets

Canrelaywhatconsumablesarerequiredtoproduction

Cananalysiswhatisexpectedoneverydaytasks/andmanagedeadlines

Knowledge of who’s who on set

Shouldhaveabasicunderstandingofwhoiswhoonset,yetliaisewithmoreexperiencedVFXcrewinitially

Digital Skills CameraskillsandMSWord.

Administrative Skills Printing,photocopying,andforwarding


Canshowunderstandingoftechniques/protocolsoffilmmakingonaliveset

Hasabasicunderstandingofalldepartmentsbytheendofthejob

HasabasicunderstandingofwhichdepttoliaisewithforVFXrequirement,e.g.Props

Department,ADsandcatering

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VFX Department - Screen Ireland

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