Problem Solver for VFX | TD Meetup 19

Problem-solving is a key life and professional skill, especially for those working with technology. Technical artists and directors in visual effects, animation and games are constantly solving technical problems, such as software crashes and slowdowns. They create alternative workflows and write Python scripts to speed up the process.

"One of the hardest things in life is accepting that we’ve a problem."

At this event, we learned how to break down problems, identify different levels of solutions, and position ourselves as the key figures in any production.

What is a Problem Solver?

A problem solver understands the root cause of a problem and offers an adequate solution. This is in clear distinction to a problem fixer, who often postpones the effects of the problem by finding temporary fixes.

A great problem solver has the following attributes:

• Analytical Thinking

  • Attention to Detail

  • Technical Expertise

• Creative Problem-Solving

  • Adaptability 

  • Curiosity

  • Open to new learnings

• Strong Communication and Collaboration

• Time and Resource Management 

  • Creating adequate solutions

➡️ Technical Artist and Technical Director in VFX, Animation and Games

3 levels of problem solving

Solutions have different levels depending on their effectiveness. The better we understand which level our solution lies on, the easier it is to find an adequate solution to the problem at hand, since the resources of the solution must match the problem.

• Level 0: Solve a self created problem

• Level 1: Solve the idea of the problem

• Level 2: Solve the fundamental needs of the problem

• Level 3: Solve the problem for the goal

Skills of Technical Artist & Director

To become a successful Technical Artist or Director, it's essential to bridge the gap between artistic and technical elements. While being a great problem solver is one of the key ingredients, it's the trait that others associate with us. We have the answer to all their technical problems.

• Great Problem Solver

  • Good Python coders

  • Know variety of software packages

  • Flexible

• Decent Artists

• Great communicators

• Production experience

"The second hardest is realizing that our solution isn’t solving the problem, and we’re back at square one, still facing the same."

Resume

Each one of us is a problem solver. Every day, we face challenges, hurdles, and issues that require our attention and solutions. Sharpening our problem-solving skills opens numerous opportunities and eliminates slowdowns and feelings of helplessness.

Join our Python for VFX cohorts to enhance your problem-solving skills with advanced logical thinking and Python scripting. This experience will streamline your workflows, making them faster and easier. Python tools are essential for any professional workflow and open doors for artists to world-class projects.

View your daily problems as solvable, and you will find that the more you solve, the easier they become over time.

See you at our next TD Meetup,

Alex

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