Missions, skills, training, responsibilities
LIGHTING ARTIST - JOB DESCRIPTION
Definition
The Lighting Artist creates the lighting for a pre-rendered 3D scene or a real-time video game. They enhance characters and environments while maintaining a consistent visual style.
Duties:
* Understand and translate artistic and directorial intentions into scene lighting terms.
* Create high-quality lighting in a variety of environments or modify existing lighting setups.
* Create, implement, and optimize all lighting elements (dynamic, pre-rendered, indoor, outdoor, cinematic and cutscene environments).
* Use lighting to convey emotional experiences that align with the artistic vision of the project.
* Master the technical and artistic aspects of lighting.
* Prepare presentation materials for validation and reviews.
* Perform requested retakes.
* Stay updated on advancements in lighting techniques and rendering engines.
* Contribute to the improvement of the production pipeline.
* Adhere to deadlines and production schedules.
* Collaborate closely with relevant departments involved in lighting.
Skills:
The Lighting Artist should possess a set of knowledge including:
* Deep understanding of light behavior, color theory, image composition, and post-processing effects.
* Excellent knowledge and use of real-time or pre-rendered 3D lighting techniques.
* Proficiency in composition, image processing, textures, and 3D modeling.
* Familiarity with pre-rendered or real-time rendering engines.
* Strong artistic culture: illustrations, paintings, photography, cinematography, and video games.
* Aesthetic sensitivity and keen artistic sense for details.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of qualities required for the Lighting Artist profession:
* Attention to detail and precision.
* Ability to work independently within a multidisciplinary team.
* Ability to accept constructive criticism.
* Observational skills.
* Adaptability and problem-solving ability.
* Good communication skills and teamwork.
* Proactive and innovative mindset.
Software used by Lighting Artists:
To fulfill their role, Lighting Artists employ various creation software such as Maya, 3ds Max, Houdini, Blender, Photoshop, V-Ray, Arnold, etc. These tools allow them to simulate consistent lighting in line with the artistic and narrative intentions of the project. They possess practical knowledge of a node-based compositing system (e.g., Nuke). Being comfortable in a Linux environment can be advantageous, as well as having knowledge of Python scripting. For working as a Lighting Artist in a video game studio, experience with lighting in a game engine (such as Unreal Engine or equivalent) is usually required.
How to become a Lighting Artist
High school diploma
To become a Lighting Artist, it is recommended to pursue a program in 3D Animation & Visual Effects or Game Art, as these programs are directly related to the creation of 3D images and lighting.
What degree is awarded?
Upon completion of the five-year program, ISART awards the RNCP level 7 title of “Expert in Digital Design, 3D Animation, and Special Effects.”
Based on their experience and skills, a Lighting Artist can progress towards the following positions:
* Lead Lighting Artist: The Lead Lighting Artist oversees a team of Lighting Artists and ensures that projects are delivered on time and with the expected level of quality.
* Visual Effects Supervisor: The Visual Effects Supervisor oversees VFX Artists and all visual effects aspects of a project, including lighting.
* Art Director: The Art Director is responsible for the overall artistic vision of a project.
* Trainer or Consultant: Trainers or Consultants share their expertise and provide advice to studios on best practices in lighting.
Which companies hire Lighting Artists
Lighting Artists are primarily hired by creative companies that produce high-quality images and videos, such as animation studios, film and television production companies, advertising agencies, video game studios, and visual effects studios.
Job opportunities in France and abroad
Lighting Artists have employment opportunities in many countries, including France, the United States, Canada, Australia, the United Kingdom, and India. Job opportunities can be offered under different employment statuses: permanent contracts (CDI), fixed-term contracts (CDD), fixed-term contracts for the performance industry (CDDU), intermittent contracts (intermittence), and freelance positions.
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