We explore how to become a Technical Director by looking at my path and exploring the requirements for the role. The live event finishes with a 40 minutes Q&A to answer the most common questions about the role and requirements of a Technical Director.
Watch the full Live Event:
What is a Technical Director?
A Technical Director is a bridge between an artist and a developer. They combine the understanding of the artistic and the technical side and especially merge them together making things simpler and possible.
🛠️ Environment
Creating movies, games and installations in the 21st century are complex tasks. It often requires an army of professionals to cover all the skills and tools to make it happen.
🎨 Creative environment: Art challenges technology! Focusing the technology to create art and support the artist.
🧩 Complex and unique projects: Embrace the variations! No two projects are the same and each comes with its own technical challenges.
🔄 Evolving technology: Adapt and thrive! Tools and techniques are always changing, so stay flexible.
🧑💻 Multiple software packages: Master the art of versatility! Navigate various software to bring your teams creations to life.
👥 Huge specialized teams: Teamwork makes the dream work! Coordination and communication are key in large-scale productions.
🌍 International and ununified backgrounds: Different perspectives and workflows enrich your team.
🧠 Skills
To counter this complex environments a Technical Director needs a variety of skills to be able to support their teams.
Technical Skills: Understanding and problem-solving
Department Workflow: Lighting, shading, animation, etc.
Effective Communication: Good documentation and interpersonal skills
OS & Tools: Windows, Linux, Shell and Git
Software Expertise: Maya, Nuke, Houdini, Blender, Katana, Unreal Engine, ...
Project Management: ShotGrid, fTrack and basic databases
Coding: Python
Learn more about the TD role? Check out my Free 7-Day TD Bootcamp: Technical Director.
Thanks for reading,
Alex
About the Author
I'm Alexander, an Award-Winning Technical Director & Coach in Visual Effects, Animation and Games. My skills are solving technical problems, simplifying workflows and mentoring career goals.
For more check out our exciting TD Bootcamp, 21 Artist Show Podcast and YouTube channel.