Overall, I really enjoyed my Learning Day. It was exactly what I had hoped - a glimpse into the world of cutting edge digital effects, and a way for me to assess whether it'd be worth trying to learn any of these packages.
I think my next software investment will be Corel's Painter 9 (or whatever version will be out by the time I can afford the price tag!). It's one of the few software packages that has made me feel simply awestruck by the possibilities. I downloaded the 30-day trial not too long ago and have dreamed of getting the full version ever since.
I doubt I'll be delving much deeper into 3D. I don't have the hunger for it - and the work does not happen by magic.
Those packages are tools, just like Photoshop is - the work is only going to be as good as the skills and patience of the user, and the visual effects of today take a great deal of both.
However, if 3D would be something that I'd want to pursue career-wise, then Escape Studios would be a very good way to get into it. I'd recommend it on many levels - the tutors all have extensive industry experience, or are currently working in the industry - and the studios and equipment all seemed appropriate and professional. The working and learning environment is set up to resemble an actual studio and there are some definite networking and work experience opportunities if you have the ability to grab them. Many students have gone on to work with tutors on real projects, for example.
My only warning would be: take a packed lunch. And a book. Because at lunch, or breakfast, or just about any other time of the day, you may not want to go out. Shepherd's Bush (at least the bit around the studios/Tube) is a DUMP. Hobos falling over on the road, two branches of McDonald's within 500 metres of one another, a KFC, some dodgy all-you-can-eat buffet, a small Starbucks with sullen staff, a slum shopping centre with a Morrisons. I suppose it's reassuring to see the studios situated in such a, how shall we say, boho environment. It roots the place in art, somehow.
Modified from an entry at Tomorrow Could Be Boring.
Article comments
1 - James
I've just finished the the foundation course at Escape it was amazing! Really good fun but a lot of hard work! I want to do the 2d compositing course next.
2 - Nukapai
Well done! The studios certainly seemed to be made up of people who knew their stuff and have a very active hand in the industry, so you're in good hands and have good prospects. (I only wish I could split myself into many copies and go off to explore all the things I'd like to learn about. But realistically, I know my adventures in 3D will most probably never get off the ground).