While indulging in the guilty pleasure of weekend fashion mag flipping, I was surprised when I came across an article of truth and relevance. And it not only rang true for me but started a passionate discussion between my pals and I.
"I want it all, and I want it now! Bosses are starting to complain about 'deservers', who expect the big job, the big paycheck, and the big title before they're actually ready. " An article by Sarah Z. Wexler.
The term 'deservers' is great. People who feel they deserve the big stuff. When I hear these deservers going on their rant about not being paid enough or working some overtime or having their work criticized it speaks miles about their character.
A VFX specific example is these artists that attend the expensive animation schools and then expect to get the big job at Pixar straight out of school. They have no experience in the workplace or knowledge of how an efficient and productive studio operates. And when they do land a job they complain about the work environment and the changes to their shots they have to do and they can't accept the constructive criticism that is given by the supervisors.
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The visual effects industry isn't as glamorous as some may think. You don't get to animate whatever you want and you're first version is rarely going to be approved and finaled.
I have heard countless conversations that go 'I'm only making $120,000 a year', 'They took one of my shots away', 'Pixar artists only make $65,000 a year', 'I should be a Senior by now' and so on. They stew on these facts. The VFX industry is a tough one to get into and these negative people promote a toxic vibe. They won't learn and grow as an artist or a person.
"There's a difference between being driven and a 'deserver,' and it's up to you to walk that line." (Wexler, S)
Being part of the visual effects process requires you to act as part of a team. The studio is a business not an office for you to practice your hobby. The studio has deadlines and budgets. You have to step up and be a part of that team. Communicate and help each other out. Work together to drive the project to a successful end result. Your contribution, team spirit, willingness to learn and honest, hard work will pay off and that is when you are going to get recommendations, or a contract extension or an opportunity for advancement.
Be a truly deserving member of the visual effects industry and you will reap the rewards. Be them monetary or priceless, professional work experience.
