Working in the VFX and animation industry can be a challenging but rewarding career path. As a VFX artist with over four years of experience in the industry, I have worked in several well-known studios such as Double Negative, MPC, and Mr. X
Over time, I have come to understand some of the pros and cons of working in this field, particularly regarding compensation and work-life balance.
One of the biggest challenges in the industry is the oversaturation of the artist pool. Due to the abundance of artists, pay has decreased, resulting in fewer job opportunities and no job security. It is concerning that the only ones who benefit from this situation are corporations, who are making millions on the backs of hardworking artists. This issue is not limited to India, as workers in the US animation industry also need to learn to advocate for themselves to ensure they are being paid fairly and for overtime work. This is especially important for production workers who often receive less pay than their artist counterparts.
Another potential con of working in the animation industry is the high cost of living in job cities and hubs. Many major animation studios are located in expensive cities such as Los Angeles, New York, and Vancouver, making it difficult for entry-level artists to make ends meet.
The issue of unpaid overtime is also prevalent in the industry, which can lead to young talent being abused in terms of extended periods of unmonitored and unpaid work. This is not an acceptable situation, and it is crucial for workers to speak up and demand fair compensation for their hard work.
In addition to these challenges, there is also an obsession with work and career advancement that can lead to sacrificing important personal aspects of life. Many artists prioritize their careers over starting a family, leaving their family or not having a place to call home. This is a serious issue that should be addressed within the industry, and companies should implement policies that allow for better work-life balance, so artists can achieve their professional goals without sacrificing important aspects of their personal lives.
Despite these challenges, working in the animation industry can still be a fulfilling and exciting career path for those who are passionate about their craft. By advocating for fair compensation, fair labour practices, and better work-life balance, artists can help create a more equitable and sustainable industry for all.
The pandemic has changed the game for the VFX and animation industry by opening up opportunities for remote work. Prior to this, finding the right talent was difficult and often required relocation to far-off cities. Thanks to the pandemic, a good internet connection is all that's needed for artists to work from home. However, some studios are withdrawing from this work-from-home culture, which can be problematic for talented artists around the world.
In conclusion, while there are some cons to working in the VFX and animation industry, including oversaturation of the artist pool, low pay, lack of job security, high cost of living in job cities and hubs, and the obsession with work and career advancement, there are also many pros. By addressing these challenges and advocating for a fair and equitable industry, artists can help create a more sustainable future for themselves and the industry as a whole.
