389 - Should I Go to a VFX School?

The most commonly asked questions that get asked are: 

• “Should I go to school to study VFX?” 
• “Should I study online?” 
• “What school / online community should I join?”

Attending a school is a more traditional way of learning. However, because of the speed at which technology is changing, school is not always the best route. Throughout the history of this Podcast, Allan has interviewed many artists and VFX supervisors and they attest that: Learning on the job — is the best and the fastest route to learn!

The biggest myth in VFX is that you need a diploma in order to get a job. But in reality, the most important thing in getting hired is knowing that you can do that job, even if you were to get hired tomorrow. The only place where a diploma actually matters is when you’re applying for a work visa in a different country. Otherwise, the most important tool in getting hired – is your REEL!

If you spend 4 years at a college, you could've spent that time getting experience in the industry. In addition, the price tag of getting a formal education (especially in the US) is so high, your student debt adds to the pressure of having to get a job right after school. In 4 years, you could’ve already built a reel and a network necessary for you to get that first job. Many studios offer internships and training on how to use their proprietary tools anyway. The more you’re self-taught, the more open you are to learning.

If you choose to study online, you often get to study with people who are already working in visual effects. That means that they will be teaching you the latest skills and technology. You can get access to those people through live reviews. You can also start building your community with other students – who are also going on to work in VFX. 

In this Podcast, Allan discusses the 3 CHOICES OF LEARNING – and the pros and cons of every choice:

• Studying in college / at a university;
• Studying online for free; 
• Paying for online courses.

Learn just in time – not just in case. With VFX being a fast-paced and quickly changing industry, you have to keep learning all the time. You have to keep going back to the drawing board and getting new skills. No matter the route you take – you have to go all in!

In his answer to the most frequently asked question SHOULD I GO TO A VFX SCHOOL?, Allan McKay breaks down the pros and cons of studying at a 4-year university versus studying online and why a VFX artist must be constantly learning – no matter the route! – as well as the importance of going all in!

For more show notes, visit www.allanmckay.com/389.