Real-time Visualization Shotmaker

The Real-Time Visualization Shotmaker is responsible for designing and filming character performances using virtual cameras to create cinematic sequences aligned with the filmmaker's vision. This role requires a strong understanding of filmmaking principles and involves working with the Visualization Creative Director and Previs Supervisor to drive the production of previs shots. Key responsibilities include managing and generating shot sequences from storyboards or scripts, collaborating with filmmakers and directors to implement creative notes, and performing shot creation including character blocking, camera positioning, and performance capture. The role also entails animation of creatures, props, and vehicles, as well as motion capture for animation with quality control. The ideal candidate will have over 5 years of experience in Unreal animation and camera work, proficiency in Autodesk Maya and UE exporting, and Adobe After Effects compositing. Autodesk Motion Builder and PFTrack experience are considered a plus.

Must Have

• 5+ years of experience in Unreal animation and camera work
• Shot and sequence generation
• Strong film vocabulary (genre, shot design, camera moves, lighting, acting)
• Ability to produce 3 regular shots per day consistently
• Autodesk Maya workflow and UE exporting
• Adobe After Effects compositing proficiency
• Artistic eye for detail
• Understanding of cinematic language and camera terminology
• Keen sense of composition, color, and animation timing
• Original thinking and ownership of ideas
• Ability to maintain high quality and speed
• Understanding of shot continuity
• Teamwork and ability to take direction
• Adaptability and willingness to start fresh

Good to Have

• Autodesk Motion Builder experience
• PFTrack experience

The Real-Time Visualization Shotmaker designs character performances and films them with virtual cameras to create cinematic sequences that reflect the filmmaker’s vision. All elements of shot design are utilized in this position, and a seasoned understanding of filmmaking is vital. Working with the visualization Creative Director, and under the previs Supervisor, the real-time visualization lead drives the production of previs shots and sequences that help to support the director's vision via appropriate use of camera movement, lenses, composition, staging, lighting, and editing. 

This role is limited term up to 6 months.

Responsibilities: 

• Manage and generate sequences of shots from storyboards and/or script pages to construct story  
• Work closely with prospective filmmakers, directors, Leads, and/or our Visualization Creative Director to interpret and drive implementing their   creative notes 
• Shot creation including orchestrating character blocking, camera positioning, and performance capture  
• Perform motion capture for animation, including quality control and accentuating mocap animation.  
• Ideate and create realistic and compelling character animation following traditional animation principles.  
• Animation of creatures, props, and vehicles within their shot allotment.  
• Reports to the Creative Director 

Essential Skills: 

• 5+ years of experience in Unreal animation and camera work in engine 
• Shot and sequence generation with and without the use of storyboards and script 
• A film vocabulary of genre, shot design, sequence progression, camera moves, lighting styles, and acting choices based on years of film viewing, both vfx driven and practical.  
• Speed of work, with the ability to do three regular sized shots a day consistently. 
• Autodesk Maya workflow and UE exporting experience 
• Adobe After Effects compositing proficiency  
• Autodesk Motion Builder (a plus) 
• PFTrack (a plus) 

Qualifications: 

• Possess an artistic eye for detail and understand the technical specifications for each project. 
• Understand cinematic language, camera terminology  
• Possess a keen sense of composition, color, and animation timing. 
• Original thinking and ownership over ideas necessary 
• Maintain high consistent standard of quality and speed. 
• Understand shot continuity of sequence to help guide shot creation. 
• Work well on a team and successfully take direction from a supervisor. 
• Adapt quickly and accept change – often must toss out ideas and start fresh. 
• Work well on a team and successfully take direction from a supervisor. 
• Adapt quickly and accept change – often must toss out ideas and start fresh.

Sony Pictures Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.

SPE will consider qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records in accordance with applicable law.

To request an accommodation for purposes of participating in the hiring process, you may contact us at SPE_Accommodation_Assistance@spe.sony.com.