Whenever we see a new beginning in the horizon, we look for the crystal ball! What does the future hold for us? We just have to know and be prepared!
However, crystal balls are rather well known for throwing some curve balls that at best make no sense and at worst drive you up a wall. And that is when we go back and rely on the time tested technique of studying the past and making a few educated guesses at what might be in store for us in the future. We did same to figure out what the VFX industry has in store for it in the year 2015, especially with the rapid advancements in virtual film production, and here is what we came up with!
Our 6 predictions for the VFX industry in 2015
Technology will continue to lead the way
There was a time when advances in technology were spread out through decades. Now, at the very least, a few life-altering technological advances are announced each year. This is always good news for any industry that depends on technology for its growth The VFX industry, in particular, thrives on these advancements, constantly evolving with new tools and techniques. There will always be something new for VFX studios to add to their list of services, from cutting-edge rendering software to the latest breakthroughs in virtual film production. We can predict with almost 100% certainty that growth is guaranteed if you place your studio well and deliver! This constant evolution in the future of the VFX industry ensures that there will never be a time when a professional from this field can say, “I have learned it all!” We foresee every professional revisiting school at least once or twice to stay updated and in the game. And that brings good news for the education industry as well!
Direct to client approach
This generation of marketing departments is, of course, digitally savvy. That means no more waiting to hear from an intermediate agency! We see studios reaching out to clients directly. After all, with the digital medium, anything is possible! As the future of VFX continues to evolve, this direct approach will become more common, enabling faster and more efficient collaboration.
Look out for new job titles
Technology has a way of creating new avenues. As the future of the future of the VFX industry grows with every step, forward that technology takes and spread across different specialized segments, we see a whole new range of job tittles taking the spotlight. VFX Studios will require professionals with different skill sets to create well-rounded teams. How else can they team up their clients to co-create a campaign using the latest advancements in virtual film production?
Clash between Magic Leap and Oculus Rift
Last year we saw Facebook backing up Magic Leap and Google extending their support to Oculus Rift, both products involved in creating immersive virtual reality. They are definitely different in how they work but both will need work done that falls right in the lap of the current gaming and CG pipelines. Irrespective of who wins the war between these two products, the VFX industry will definitely benefit. The profit margins may not be great as of yet but will it certainly be a great opportunity for studios to get a head start in shaping the future of VFX.
Interactive work: Rise in profit margins
There was a time when creating interactive work in the VFX industry was painstaking. That meant taking on large volumes was tough for even the most advanced VFX studios. But with the way technology has advanced off late, tools that simplify this process, including virtual film production, are now many. That means creating these solutions is now easier. We can’t see anything but growth in profit margins in this segment this year, which is contributing to the future of the VFX industry.
The boom
The three industries that predominantly utilise the services of VFX video games, marketing and cinema & television. And these industries today are bigger than ever, only showing signs of continuous and tremendous growth. The obvious conclusion here is that the VFX industry shall also continue to grow with them. Moreover, advancements like virtual film production are transforming how movies and shows are created, offering exciting new opportunities for artists and technicians. If you are concerned about job opportunities, then don’t be. There are many out there, whether in a VFX studio or freelance projects, but it is up to you to land and keep them! As these sectors expand, the future of VFX looks promising with countless opportunities.
And that is what we believe is in store for the future of the VFX industry this year!
