Hey There, VFX artists and Filmmakers! Let's Upskill During the Writers Strike

Hey there, fellow artists! So, the writers/actors strike is happening.  If you are anything like me, you might be trying to wait it out and saving every penny while scouring at the news on a daily basis.  I want to share with you my take on this challenging time.  I believe that this is the perfect time to be a part of a community and level up your skills. New techniques in the world of VFX and filmmaking are going to be shaking up the traditional ways of making films, doing theater shows, and broadcast sets. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and let's chat about how we can make the most of this unexpected downtime. 

The Indie Filmmaker: It's Not as Scary as It Sounds 

Going solo can be an empowering experience, giving you complete control over every aspect of your design and style. Yes, it's a lot of work, but it's also a chance to push your boundaries and learn new things. The key to a successful solo project? Be realistic about what you want to achieve and find efficient ways to get the work done.  Also, learn new techniques and find mentors to help you go further faster.

New Software: Future proof your employability

Now, let's talk about new software. It's like opening presents on Christmas morning, isn't it? There's always something new and exciting to explore.  Unreal Engine, Blender, Cinema4d... all of these technologies are moving sooo quickly.  So why not pick one and start exploring? Who knows, you might just find your new favorite tool! 

Real-Time Rendering: The Future is Now

Alright, let's get a bit techy. Have you tried real-time rendering yet? It's a game-changer in the world of VFX and Filmmaking. Sure, the visual quality might be a tad below par compared to traditional rendering, but the possibilities it opens up are mind-blowing and the quality is getting more and more realistic.  The experience of creating worlds as a filmmaker or being on set as an actor in that ICVFX world has improved exponentially.  After being at the Microsoft Summit these past few days, trust me, this is a large part of the future of filmmaking and VFX.  Unreal is also free to download.  Check it out!  Trust me, it's worth it. 

Social Media: Your New Best Friend 

Finally, let's talk about social media. Yes, it can be a bit of a love-hate relationship. But social media is a long-term game, and the more posts you make, the better. It's also a great way to learn from others and get inspired. I have also seen people get work just by posting a piece they've put their heart into on their socials.  So start sharing your work and engage with the community! Who knows, your next big idea might just be a tweet away. The writers strike might seem like a setback, but it's also an opportunity. It's a chance for us to upskill, learn new techniques, and push our boundaries. So let's make the most of it, and come out the other side as better artists.