A day in the life of a visual development artist comes with many obstacles and victories. All these experiences make this job always exciting to me.
If you want to become a visual development artist, check this article first! Right here, you will discover the ins and outs of this career. Then, you can determine if it’s the right path for you.
Who Is A Visual Development Artist?
A visual development artist creates cinematic effects for films, video games, and TV. To do this, they produce the environment’s color palette, tone, and mood. They ensure that all these elements match the project’s genre and storyline.
The artist has different tasks, depending on the requirements of their project. But mostly, they need to:
- Provide ideas for the projects and develop visuals based on them
- Create colors, props, lighting, and backgrounds for the mediums
- Work with creative teams
- Help with visual decisions
A Day In The Life Of A Visual Development Artist
I’m a visual development artist. Let me tell you my typical work day so you can picture what this job actually involves.
Morning
Morning time is perfect for reviewing projects and thinking of new ideas. So, even when I’m still a little bit sleepy, I can cover those tasks well.
Prepare for the day
I often get up at 7 am. Breakfast is important to me as it fills me with energy. Thus, I prepare it myself to ensure it is nutritious enough.
Review ongoing projects
Getting straight to a serious task is not an ideal way to start my work. So, once I arrive at the office, I spend a little time reviewing current projects. Then, I can identify which tasks are urgent.
Prioritize tasks
After years of working in the industry, I have found out that one of the biggest challenges I face daily is tight deadlines. The numerous tasks ask for effective time management.
Hence, I write a duty list in the morning, which acts as a guideline for my busy day. I can then tell which tasks are more important and spend more time on them. This way, I never miss deadlines.
Brainstorm ideas
As a visual development artist, I need interesting ideas for every concept. I often get inspiration from movies of the same genre and entertainment magazines.
Conduct research
Another way to find inspiration is to research styles, references, and techniques. Trends in technology, fashion, and related areas can really influence me.
Sketch out concepts
Once the ideas are in my mind, I start sketching the concepts. This task involves drawing and designing new characters so they can fit storylines.
I love this task as it’s where my creativity flourishes. I can also shine with my drawing skills to create gorgeous storyboards and sketches for the media.
Afternoon
I have lunch at 12. After enjoying my favorite dishes, I have a short break to recharge my energy. Then, I will head to the remaining tasks.
Work with other designers and artists
My teammates help a lot with my artwork by giving feedback and offering new ideas. Together, we build strong teamwork that brings success to our studio.
Refine sketches
After collecting feedback from other designers and artists, I refine my sketches. The changes may include composition, color choices, and character design.
However, while working on feedback, I need to maintain the original message I intend to convey via my artwork. This way, I won’t compromise my artistic style and the core concept.
Experiment with different options
I love having fun with different compositions and color options. As a creative person, I don’t want to set any limits for myself.
Even so, I don’t break the concept. For example, I can experiment with various colors if a movie calls for harmony and simplicity. But I have to ensure they create a sense of balance.
Create illustrations
After that, I create traditional or digital illustrations using software. Here are some of my favorite tools for different projects:
- Adobe After Effects: This software is a complex package with tons of features. I use it to create flexible templates and stunning 3D workplaces.
- HitFilm Express: I love HitFilm Express because it combines multiple effects and editing tools in one software.
- Blackmagic Fusion: This all-in-one program allows for live-action footage with many 3D models and effects. I can also take advantage of the real-time collaboration feature to work with my teammates.
Attend meetings and presentations
I need feedback for any stage of visual development. Hence, I gather my team to present my artwork after creating illustrations. The meeting is also a chance to discuss and reflect on the project’s progress.
Evening
Wrap up
I check the duty list all over again to see whether I have finished the important tasks. If there are any pending jobs, then I take note of them for the next day.
Engage in personal art projects
I work on multiple projects at the same time, and some of them are my own jobs. Thus, at the end of the way, I spend some time dealing with them.
Follow up on emails
I need to keep my clients and colleagues updated with my art projects. The best way to inform them is to use emails and messages. Then, we can save the documentation easily.
Relax
My work days are busy, but I still have time for relaxation. After getting home and taking a bath, I enjoy gathering with my friends and family. It’s the best part of the day and helps me power up.
Conclusion
Now you know everything about a day in the day of a visual development artist. So, does it sound interesting to you?
Hopefully, you will love it and consider this role. Remember, challenges happen to any career. But your hard work will pay off once you overcome all of them.
