Finding a good visual effects (VFX) artist who can work within your budget can be a challenging task. However, if you are careful and thorough, it is by no means impossible. There are thousands of great yet relatively new VFX artists out there who will happily cut you a deal.
Instructions
1. Check a wide variety of websites which allow VFX artists to post their resumes and employers to post potential jobs. To find sites, simply do a search on "VFX artists," "VFX jobs" or "VFX resumes."
2. Peruse the resume listings on the website. Be sure to ask the VFX artist for samples of his work. Look within the resume to see if the VFX artist has a website where you can view clips of video work he has produced. Be on the particular lookout for new artists who have just graduated from college and are relatively new to the field. Be sure to check out the website's art gallery for up and coming artists looking to break into VFX.
3. Contact the VFX artist and ask him about his working methods. For example, which software does he use, if any? You should at least be familiar with the state of the art visual effects software packages such as 3D Studio Max, Maya, DAZ, Adobe After Effects, Lightwave, Cinema 4D and Flash. The artist should also have fairly high end computer equipment and video editing equipment, or have access to such equipment. Depending on your needs, you may want to find a VFX artist with the ability to do blue screen work. Don't forget to specifically mention your budget to the VFX artist so you can come to an agreement on the price of the job.
4. Post a job on one of the many websites which cater to people looking for jobs in visual effects. Be very specific about what sort of work you're looking to have done. Also mention what your requirements are in terms of the artist's skills and abilities should be with certain software and equipment, and how much experience he should have. Again, state that you're looking for fresh, talented young person who has just completed his education and is looking to break into the business. These artists will most likely be willing to work for less in order to establish their name in the business and build a quality resume. Offer to act as a reference for future jobs to which the artist may apply.
5. Get a signed contract. It's in both your best interest, and the VFX artist's best interest, if he's working as contract labor. A signed contract protects both of you within the transaction and can save thousands in legal fees later on.
