For this weeks episode of The ACCESS:VFX Podcast we've gathered  recruiters and talent managers from the visual effects, animation, and games industries to tackle 15 killer career questions sent in via our community on social media. 

Joining Simon and Nene for our first 'ASK US ANYTHING' episode are:

Harriet Edge-Partington from Union Visual Effects,
Ollie Gilmour from Electric Theatre Collective,
HaZ Dulull Co-Founder of HaZimation,
Karley Bittner from Blue Zoo Animation Studio,
Celia Hunt, CGI Production Talent Manager from Aardman, 
and,
Ethan Clark, Talent Acquisition Manager at REALTIME

If you enjoyed this episode and would like YOUR burning career questions answered, then please email us at info@accessvfx.org and we'll have you covered on 'part two' of ASK US ANYTHING, coming soon...

Also, if you're interested in any of the opportunities discussed on this episode check out the links below:

HaZimation: https://hazimation.com/contact
Blue Zoo: https://careers.blue-zoo.co.uk/
Union: https://www.unionvfx.com/careers/ (blowing up soon!)
Realtime: https://careers.realtimeuk.com/
Aardman: https://jobs.aardman.com/vacancies/
ETC: https://electrictheatre.tv/careers/

402: VFX & Animation Recruiters - ASK US ANYTHING

On this weeks episode of The ACCESS:VFX Podcast we’re reflecting on this year's Women's History Month, with a brilliant 'near peer' panel of women who are new to the industry working across a range of roles in visual effects and animation. 

Joining Nene and Simon on this one are Eilidh Brown, Rigging TD at Axis Studios, Emily Birkett, Junior Compositor at Union VFX, Paula Ezuma, Junior Compositor at Framestore and Daisy Kavanagh, Junior Animator at Blue-Zoo Animation Studio.

This is an episode we’ve been planning for a while now, and it does not disappoint, 

We hope you enjoy this wonderful conversation with some of the newest members of our community in our Womens History Month and 'near peer' special!

403: Womens History Month Special - VFX & Animation 'Near Peers'

For this weeks episode of The ACCESS:VFX Podcast we've gathered recruiters and talent managers from the visual effects, animation, and games industries to tackle over 90 killer career questions sent in via our community on social media.

Joining Simon and Nene for our second 'ASK US ANYTHING' episode are 5 recruiters and talent managers, namely…

Ellie Algar, Recruitment Manager for Framestore,
Joe Duffy, Global Talent Acquisition Lead for Jellyfish Pictures,
Chloe Hardy, Talent Partner at Foundry,
Paul Wilkes, Talent & Recruitment Consultant at PXL Talent, 
and,
Tiffany Feeney, Global Executive Headhunter & Recruiter at Talent Outpost

Also, if you're interested in any of the opportunities discussed on this episode check out the links below:

Jellyfish Pictures: jellyfishpictures.com/join-us
Framestore: framestore.com/careers
Foundry: foundry.com/careers
PXL Talent: app.loxo.co/pxl-talent
Talent Outpost: talent-outpost.com/talent-services

404: VFX & Animation Recruiters - ASK US ANYTHING, Part 2

On the ACCESS: VFX Podcast this week, we’re sharing the live podcast we recorded at this years Rainbow Conference hosted by London ACM Siggraph on Friday 6th September 2024. 

Joining this episode are three ACCESS VFX mentees have been part of the ACCESS: VFX global e mentoring programme, including:

Sofi Kocsmarszki, Coffee & TV Apprentice)
Lola Kalyango, Production Coordinator at One of Us
Brenda Ximena Roldan Romero, Animator at Framestore, and Vice-Chair of London ACM Siggraph

This episode provides a rare insight into the impact that e-mentoring has on the next generation talent.

Disclaimer: This episode was recorded in a live environment, so there is an element of background noise that we hope doesn't impact your enjoyment of this episode.

409: E-Mentoring Special, LIVE from Rainbow Conference 2024

This week's episode focuses on the theme of neurodiversity, as Simon and Nene welcome an inspiring panel of neurodivergent VFX and Animation professionals, including:

- Amelie Chagnon-Fathe’ (Employer Brand Marketing Specialist at Cinesite)
- Ellie Algar (Senior Recruitment Manager - Technology & Immersive at Framestore)
- Bridget Dash (Talent Acquisition Manager for DNEG Feature Animation)
- Simon Taylor (Series Director & Animator at Blue Zoo)

Together, they engage in a thought-provoking and multifaceted discussion that explores not only their personal journeys but also the broader implications of neurodiversity in the animation and VFX industries. 

The episode covers a variety of neurodivergent conditions, some of which are explored below to help listeners better understand the specific traits discussed:

ADHD (Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder): A condition involving symptoms like inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity. ADHD can impact organisation, focus, and emotional regulation, often requiring tailored approaches for individuals to excel in structured settings.

ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder): Encompasses a range of conditions affecting social interaction, communication, and behaviour. ASD often includes unique sensory sensitivities and specific interests, with the term "spectrum" reflecting the diversity in abilities and challenges.

Dyslexia: Primarily affects reading, spelling, and comprehension, often coupled with strong creative or problem-solving skills. Dyslexia demonstrates how neurodivergent traits can sometimes align with exceptional strengths in certain areas.

Dyscalculia: A learning difficulty involving numerical skills, such as counting or basic arithmetic. Dyscalculia is a reminder of the range of specific learning differences that can impact academic and workplace performance.

Dysgraphia: Impacts writing abilities, including handwriting, spelling, and typing. Dysgraphia presents unique challenges in written expression, often co-occurring with other conditions like dyslexia.

Dyspraxia (Developmental Coordination Disorder): A condition that affects motor skills and coordination, making physical tasks challenging. Dyspraxia can impact activities requiring fine motor skills, like writing or buttoning clothing, as well as affect planning and memory.

Nonverbal Learning Disability (NVLD): Characterised by challenges with visual-spatial tasks, motor skills, and nonverbal cues, despite strong verbal and reading abilities. NVLD highlights the diversity within neurodivergent conditions, as individuals may face challenges in specific, nuanced areas.

Neurodiversity: Refers to the natural variations in human neurology, promoting the acceptance of diverse brain functions rather than viewing them solely through a deficit-based lens. Neurodiversity advocates for inclusivity and recognition of neurodivergent strengths.

Masking: A coping strategy where neurodivergent individuals imitate neurotypical behaviours to fit into social or professional settings. Masking can be emotionally exhausting and impact mental health, yet many neurodivergent individuals feel societal pressure to mask.

High-Functioning/Low-Functioning Labels: Terms sometimes used to describe perceived levels of independence or support needs within ASD. These labels, however, can be misleading, as strengths and challenges are often context-dependent and may not accurately reflect an individual's abilities.

This insightful episode encourages greater understanding and allyship, illustrating how small changes can make a substantial impact in creating a more inclusive industry. The stories, strategies, and shared experiences from these industry professionals serve as a reminder of the unique contributions that neurodivergent individuals bring to the creative world.

410: Neurodiversity Special

Welcome back to another episode of the ACCESS:VFX Podcast! Season 4 Episode 11. 

In this special episode, we’re shining a spotlight on Black Success Stories in honour of Black History Month. Join us as we celebrate the groundbreaking contributions of Black professionals who are shaping and transforming the creative industries.

This inspiring conversation features a powerhouse panel of trailblazers who have made waves in VFX, animation, and beyond:

✨ Alex Zepherin — Founder and Animation Director at Don Dada Studio. Alex is a creative visionary redefining animation with bold storytelling and a mission to amplify underrepresented voices.

🎨 Jet Omoshebi — Senior Colourist at Goldcrest. Renowned for her mastery of colour grading, Jet’s work brings emotion, depth, and vibrancy to acclaimed films and television projects.

🎥 Stirling Archibald — VFX Supervisor at Electric Theatre Collective. Stirling’s technical expertise and creative direction breathe life into awe-inspiring visuals across commercials, music videos, and film.

Due to some technical challenges during recording, we’re bringing you a part one of this incredible discussion, with the follow-up episode slated for release early next year. Stay tuned for more!

🎧 Grab a seat with hosts Nene Parsotam and Simon Devereux, and dive into the remarkable journeys of Alex, Jet, and Stirling. This episode is packed with insight, resilience, and inspiration that you won’t want to miss!

411: Black Success Stories - Part 1

It's the first episode of 2025 and the ACCESS:VFX Podcast! Season 4, Episode 12!

We’re kicking off 2025 with an insightful discussion about leadership, featuring three exceptional leaders who have shaped the visual effects and animation industry:

Nosipho van den Bragt – Owner and Co-Founder of Chocolate Tribe, a boutique VFX and animation studio based in South Africa, renowned for its high-quality storytelling and cutting-edge visuals.

Amanda Luckwell – Co-Founder and Owner at UNIT, a creative studio in London celebrated for its innovative work across advertising, film, and immersive media.

...and Lucy Cooper – Managing Director at Union Visual Effects, a powerhouse studio known for delivering award-winning VFX for film and television.

Join Nene and Simon as they delve into the incredible journeys of these inspiring leaders, unpack their unique perspectives, and celebrate their contributions to the industry. 

Check out more about the studios and organisation mentioned in this episode, namely:

Animated Women UK: animatedwomenuk.com
Union VFX: unionvfx.com
Unit: unit.tv/
Chocolate Tribe: chocolatetribe.co.za

412: Leadership Special

Welcome back to another episode of the ACCESS:VFX Podcast, Season 4 Episode 13.

If you caught Episode 11, you’ll remember our incredible conversation with Jet Omoshebi, Stirling Archibald, and Alex Zepherin - so insightful that we had to split it into two parts! In this, our season finale, we’re excited to bring you Part 2 of our 'Black Success Stories' discussion. Just as our last episode aired during Black History Month in the UK, this one arrives in time for Black History Month in the USA! 

Jet is a Senior Colourist at Goldcrest, and her mastery of color grading has made her one of the most sought-after talents in the post-production world..

Stirling is a VFX Supervisor at Electric Theatre Collective, where he leads cutting-edge visual effects teams to create awe-inspiring imagery for commercials, music videos, and films.

Alex is the founder and Animation Director at Don Dada Studio, a creative powerhouse celebrated for its dynamic storytelling and stunning animation work. 

In our conversation we deep dive into race equity, exploring topics such as code-switching, microaggressions, navigating authenticity while meeting professional expectations in predominantly non-Black spaces, and the key habits and mindsets that have contributed to their success over the years.

Enjoy the episode!

413: Black Success Stories - Part 2

The ACCESS: VFX Podcast is back with a new season where we're exploring VFX and Animation roles beyond Film and TV, exploring adjacent industries such as Legal, Fashion, and Architectural Visualisation. 

With the current challenges in our industry, we know many people are looking for new opportunities, and this season is all about showcasing unexpected but exciting career paths.

We kick things off with a fascinating conversation with Jamey Moore and Mark Seydewitz, Trial Services Specialists at Akin, a legal firm in Houston, Texas, specialising litigation support and trial services.

On this episode, we learn how VFX artists play a crucial role in high-profile legal trials, sometimes sitting beside Nobel Peace Prize winners, crafting visuals that shape real-world justice; and, in all our years of podcasting, we never thought we’d be discussing monkey smuggling! 

So, file into court quietly, take a seat, and enjoy the first episode of this brand-new season of the ACCESS: VFX Podcast!

Cases mentioned in this episode...

Monkey Smuggling: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/local/article287073860.html

Somali Dictator (trigger warning: includes themes of genocide and torture): https://www.seattletimes.com/nation-world/bellevue-man-wins-torture-suit-against-former-somali-official/

Monkey Smuggling & Trial VFX - The Role of VFX in Law

The ACCESS:VFX Podcast is back with a brand-new season, and this time we’re venturing beyond the world of Film and TV. In response to the evolving challenges in our industry, we’re exploring new creative frontiers and unexpected career paths in adjacent industries such as Legal, Fashion, and Architectural Visualisation. It’s a season dedicated to possibility, where VFX skills open doors in places you might not expect.

In our latest episode, we’re shining a light on the world of Architectural Visualisation, or 'ArchViz', a space where storytelling meets structure and imagination becomes immersive environments. This is where visual effects and design intersect, transforming how we experience the built environment.

Joining us for this conversation are four creatives who are pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling in architecture and beyond. We’re thrilled to welcome Sam O’Hare, a Director and VFX Supervisor based in New York City; Mike “Chappers” Chapman, Creative Director at Electric Theatre Collective; Christiaan Klaassen, Senior Partner and Creative Director at DBOX; and Lautaro Vogel, Visualisation Director at Somewhere, part of the Uniform Group.

Together, we explore how backgrounds in VFX can translate beautifully into architecture and design, and how these disciplines overlap in exciting ways. From career pivots and redefining creative collaboration, to navigating cutting-edge technology and forecasting what’s next for the industry, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

So whether you’re listening from your studio, your home office, or somewhere surrounded by blueprints, models, or renders, sit back, relax, and join us as we explore the world of 'ArchViz' through the lens of VFX.

Also, check out Sam's work at oovfx.com, Chappers at electrictheatre.tv, Christiaan at dbox.com and Lautaro at wearesomewhere.net, uniform.net, and for any VFX freelancers interested in collaborating, please get in touch at jobs@wearesomwhere.net

From Pixels to Plans - Why 'ArchViz' is the VFX Artist's Secret Career Hack

Discussing inclusion, diversity, awareness and opportunity within the VFX, Animation & Games industries.

New tracks tagged #ACCESSVFX