Are you looking into the art and design field but not sure what kind of position you might want after school? Maybe you don’t want the common graphic designer or visual effects artist job. If so, the compositor role might be for you! Compositors combine all the elements into the final image, ensuring that the established style of the project is respected and continuity is maintained. They do this by combining layers of already-created material, including rendered computer animation, special effects, graphics, 2D animation, live action, and static background plates.
To be a compositor, you should:
- Make good artistic judgements
- Have good technical skills
- Be a problem solver
- Understand and be knowledgeable about compositing software
- Pay attention to detail
- Work well on a team
- Understand the animation process and keying process
- and more!
Compositors work with lighters, so they should be familiar with how 3D lighting operates. They also work with render wranglers to progress work through the department.
Candidates should have graphic design degrees, or degrees in an art related field, like animation, design, illustration, or photography. Most employers look for previous professional experience and showreels that demonstrate your talents and skills.
There are so many programs to choose from, so why not start your search here?
- Associate, Animation + VFX at Tribeca Flashpoint College in Chicago, IL.
- Associate, Computer Animation at The Los Angeles Film School in Los Angeles, CA.
- Occupational Associate, Digital ARts & Computer Animation at Laurus College in Santa Maria, CA.
- Associate, Visual Art & Design: Animation Emphasis at Salt Lake Community College in Salt Lake City, UT.
