2D Effects Artist - Temporary Freelance Position

About the Role

Black Frame is recruiting for a 2D Effects Animator based in Los Angeles to join Skydance Animation on a temporary freelance basis. The artist will focus primarily on creating magical, elemental effects such as water, fire, smoke, and debris for an upcoming feature film. This opportunity involves close collaboration with the Visual Development team and direct reporting to the Production Designer to shape the cinematic and artistic vision of the film’s magical effects.

Key Responsibilities

• Create both hand-drawn and digitally composited 2D effects that amplify character emotion and enhance the cinematic impact of scenes.
• Work alongside the Production Designer and Visual Development artists to iterate and innovate magical effects suitable for the film's narrative.
• Contribute to defining and solidifying the visual style for diverse magic effects throughout the project.
• Ensure style consistency and appropriate timing of effects with respect to weight, physics, and narrative context across sequences.
• Apply fundamental animation principles to achieve believable motion and clear silhouettes in effects animation.
• Address technical and artistic challenges related to effects within the production pipeline.

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum of one year experience in 2D animation or visual development emphasizing effects.
• Background in traditional 2D animation techniques.
• Proficiency with animation and effects software including Photoshop, Nuke, After Effects, Toon Boom Harmony, TVPaint, or comparable tools.
• Strong understanding of timing, weight, and physics as applied to effects animation.
• Ability to take creative direction and rapidly incorporate feedback and revisions.
• Demonstrated creative vision with skill to conceptualize and realize imaginative effects.

Location and Compensation

Applicants must be located in California, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, the United Kingdom, or Spain. For candidates in Los Angeles or the Tri-State area (New York, Connecticut, New Jersey), the annual base salary ranges between $115,000 and $140,000, subject to qualifications and experience. Compensation details differ for applicants in the UK and Spain.

Application Process

Submission of a demo reel or portfolio showcasing a wide array of 2D effects animations is required. Preference will be given to reels that illustrate effects timing, physics, and integration with character animation over purely technical displays.