Industry

Looking at my future career aspirations

The careers map from ScreenSkills showing us the different types of entry level jobs

My chosen entry point – Matchmove Artist

Initially I would like to enter the industry as a matchmove artist, this is because I enjoy working with combining 2D and 3D scenes and also working logically with camera data.

What is the role of a matchmove artist?

  • Matchmove artists match computer generated scenes with shots from live-action footage so that the two can be convincingly defined
  • They track camera movements from virtual and real cameras in order to make sure they match seamlessly
  • They use software like 3DEqualiser and Maya for 3D tracking
  • Sometimes matchmove artists with go to film sets to take measurements and install tracking markers

Attributes of a matchmove artist

  • high attention to detail
  • an understanding of 3D space and 3D camera
  • a high knowledge of cameras and aspects such as lens distortion, parallax and overscan
  • Knowledge of relevant software such as 3D equaliser and Maya
  • General soft skills for communication and teamwork

Finding real examples of job descriptions

This is a job posting from Tippett Studio. Although not applicable to me from an applicant point of view (only people with the right to work in America and Canada are eligible), it is still interested to read what is expected for this type of role