Lighting Artist (Unreal)

Sony Pictures Imageworks is located on the unceded traditional territory of the Musqueam, Squamish, and Tsleil-Waututh First Nations. We are committed to respecting traditional lands, and working with communities towards reconciliation.

Sony Pictures Imageworks Canada Inc.
1285 W Pender St Vancouver, BC V6E 4B1

Project based, Full Time

Language in work environment - English

Benefits per company policy: include healthcare, tuition reimbursement, RRSP's, Sick and Vacation leave, standard increases as applicable

Summary:

The Unreal Lighting Artist for Spider-Verse uses sequence lighting techniques, integrated with early animation, staging and camera-blocking, to establish and convey the emotional and visual intent of the story. This project role collaborates closely with the Directors, Editorial, Story Camera, and Story Performance teams to bring the movie to life from its early stages.

The primary focus of this role is to explore and develop multiple lighting scenarios for in-progress Story sequences, guided by the Production Designer and Directors. An iterative approach is central to the position, and being comfortable with constant evolution and creative problem-solving is essential. The environment is fast-paced, with rapid turnaround, making proactivity and strong organizational skills a must. The UE Lighter will be expected to efficiently deliver lighting rigs for client reviews, Editorial, and for use by the other Story departments.

Responsibilities:

• Light entire sequences in a fast, rough, but clear manner using Unreal Engine
• Work directly with the Production Designer and Directors to establish lighting scenarios that help to evoke the emotion and intent of a sequence

What we are looking for:

• Versatile problem-solvers who can think outside the box, communicate ideas effectively, and develop creative solutions around technical limitations
• Knowledge of keylighting concepts, and experience establishing clean sequence lighting setups
• A drive and curiosity for developing new techniques, workflows, and tools
• Strong sense of self-sufficiency and proactivity to establish, prioritize and execute on tasks 
• Troubleshooting and problem-solving skills
• Strong eye for aesthetics and color
• Positive attitude in a team environment

Experience:

• 5+ years of meaningful experience in visual effects, animated feature films or games
• 2+ years of production lighting experience in Unreal Engine
• Some production experience using Katana, Arnold and Nuke or any similar lighting/compositing package and global illumination renderer.
• Demo reel that represents your skillset from past production experience

Why this role is exciting:

• Collaborative Environment: Work in a small team where your ideas are valued and have a direct impact
• Client Exposure: Work directly with the Production Designer in Interactive Lighting Sessions to collaboratively establish the overall colour story of the film.
• Creative Ownership: Opportunities for significant creative input on the early look and progression of lighting throughout production
• Dynamic Process: Focus on creativity and enjoy the freedom to experiment and explore a wide range of ideas
• Pipeline Impact: Help to build a brand-new pipeline and process with cutting-edge software that will change the way we work on future projects

The anticipated base salary for mid level position is $37.50 - $53.80/hr and a senior level position is $45.34 to $65.10/hr. Benefits are per company policy: which include healthcare, tuition reimbursement, RRSP's, Sick and Vacation leave, standard increases as applicable. The actual base salary offered will depend on a variety of factors, including without limitation, the qualifications of the individual applicant for the position, years of relevant experience, level of education attained, certifications or other professional licenses held, and if applicable, the location of the position.

We value unique perspectives, and want diverse, unique talent to work with us.  We encourage candidates from all identities to apply.

*Sony Pictures Entertainment is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.