Sam Cole-2019

What education did you have before you took the Visual Effects for Film and Television course?

Way back, I attended Humber for 3D Multimedia Animation. That's where I was first introduced to any 3D software, learning the basic fundamentals of CG production. Afterwards I worked for a number of years in commercial and broadcast design using similar software for a very different product.

Tell us a bit about your experience at the college.

I really enjoyed my experience. As a someone very familiar with 3D software, I was grateful for a condensed and focused program that starts with basic introduction that builds quickly into practical knowledge to create actual VFX shots.

The program was really great at staying up to date with the latest practices in the industry and demystifying some of the more intimidating software. Houdini, for example, was always an unapproachable program for me, until I went to Seneca. We started working in it from day one and built our skills and comprehension at steady pace. Suddenly it was my preferred software.

Also, I met a lot of great people while I was in the program. Classmates with similar interest and goals, and instructors with real working knowledge and experience in the industry made for a great environment for creativity and collaboration. Some of these people I work with now, and others are contacts within the industry.

How do you use the education you got at Seneca in your job today?

For my current job as a lighter, all of the Maya, Arnold and Nuke education plays a direct part in my day to day. I've also used python to speed up some otherwise time consuming tasks.

What advice would you give potential students who are thinking of taking the course?

Try to have some working knowledge of 3D software or compositing software before you attend. Not because it is mandatory but because this is a program where you may very well be hired by the time the 8 months is over. So, the sooner you feel comfortable attempting demo shots, the more opportunities you will have produce really great work.

(Written in 2020)