What is a VFX Editor?
VFX Editors work across a range of productions, both big and small. They are responsible for tracking and communicating shots between the VFX facility and the cutting room, enabling the transformation of the production into the final masterpiece that audiences will see.
VFX Editors are becomingly increasingly common on post-production teams, whether it be a TV show, film, or commercial. This is because over the past few years the use of visual effects has increased dramatically.
Think of shows like Game of Thrones, Walking Dead, or films like Avatar or Life of PI. All of these have relied on a team of VFX Editors. Indeed, films like Harry Potter have also relied significantly on visual effects. Take a look at this short video which shows how the wizarding world was brought to life:
VFX editors don’t only work on productions for the big screen. They dominate most of the entertainment industry working in animation, advertising, games, and website design – just to name a few.
However, there is often confusion as to the role of the VFX Editor. VFX Editors are not responsible for editing visual effects or making visual effects. Instead, they are responsible for the tracking and communication of shots. Within TV and film, a VFX editor is expected to organise and track hundreds of shots. Occasionally they may be expected to create temporary visual effects, but usually, this is outside the remit of their main role. Watch this video to find out more.
Key skills
- Highly motivated
- Well organised
- Ability to prioritise workstreams
- Work well as part of a team
- Excellent communication skills
- Film and video editing experience
- Strong problem solver
How to Become a VFX Editor
To become a VFX Editor it is recommended that you hold a degree in a media, or computer science related topic. There are even some specific undergraduate and post-graduate degrees for animation and VFX.
You should also be a keen watcher of movies. Watching different films and researching them will help you learn about the many different types of effects that are used. Further, you’ll build your knowledge of the different techniques that exist as well as artistic styles that you can draw inspiration from.
Become a VFX Editor today
If you are ready for the next step in your career, why not take a look at the latest VFX Editor vacancies on our jobs board? You can view our latest vacancies here.