This position has been filled

Overview

Crafty Apes is a high-end visual effects company with a strong foothold in features and episodic television.  We are looking for a Lead Tracking/Matchmove Artist to join our Montreal location. The Lead Tracking/Matchmove Artist is responsible for creating CG cameras and character animations that match the same movement as the original plate. The responsibilities also include modeling proxy geometries to help downstream departments when there is no lidar available, laying out the cameras across a given sequence so they live in the same environment, applying editorial changes (repo/retime), witness camera lineups. They must have a thorough knowledge base of the tools and software required to execute and deliver complex camera tracks, object tracks, roto-animation and shot sculpting in a timely manner. This person will also interact with our tracking/matchmove vendors to handle briefs, ingests and reviews of their work as well as back and forth with the riggers for character matchmove. This is a remote (within Quebec), full-time staff position with benefits.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Creating CG cameras, object, and character matchmove that match the original plate.
  • Modeling geometries of main elements depending on the context.
  • Laying out all cameras in the same 3D environments to keep a consistent placement and help downstream artists.
  • Rendering playblasts to QC the work (wireframe, wireframe centered, 3D trackers).
  • Aid in ingestion and quality checking (QC) of work from outsource vendors.
  • Work closely with the department supervisors to communicate issues and recommend solutions.
  • Work closely with other artists and the supervisors to ensure shots are running smoothly throughout the project’s pipeline.
  • Ensure both internal teams and outsource vendors are briefed in a concise and timely manner.
  • Set up and track shots and sequences while meeting all technical and aesthetic standards for the project.
  • Must have an eye for detail – capable of problem solving and QC of their own work.
  • Troubleshoot and deal with competing priorities.
  • Confident grasp of overall visual effects workflow required.
  • Attend production meetings; provide revisions, feedback, and updates as required.

QUALIFICATIONS:

  • BA/BS preferred.
  • At least 5 years of Tracking/Matchmove experience in live action features, episodic or commercials. Lead experience is a bonus.
  • At least 5 years of production experience and strong knowledge of 3DEqualizer and/or SynthEyes.
  • Strong working knowledge of Maya and Nuke.
  • Full CG scene/layout experience is a must.
  • Thorough knowledge of physical cameras and lenses as well as the overall framing workflow native camera footage to received – sometimes processed – plates.
  • Experience with ingesting and processing lidars prior to using them in production.
  • Some basic modeling experience is required.
  • Experience integrating work into Maya, Houdini and Nuke.
  • Experience with Photogrammetry, Photography, Total station data and survey is ideal.
  • Strong mathematical skills are required.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and take initiative when needed.
  • Strong troubleshooting and problem-solving skills.
  • Knowledge of Houdini is a plus.
  • Ability to script in MEL and Python is an asset.

Crafty Apes LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer.