Motion technical directors work directly with character animators and modelers to define and create the controls that will allow the animator the creative freedom to pursue the ultimate in digital acting and performance. An understanding of animation principles and strong technical problem-solving skills is required. Examples of work showing computer graphic animation and modeling are important in a portfolio for this area. Modeling technical directors create all non-character motion systems for animation. Among other things, this may include prop animation, particle systems, or procedural animation.
Tasks vary, depending on the requirements of solving individual production problems.
Knowledge of 3-D animation systems, programming, and modeling are all appropriate skills for this production role. Look development technical directors work as part of a look development team that defines all the technical aspects needed to create the look of a 3-D element. This may include the development and writing of custom RenderMan shaders, painting and applying texture maps, or developing other custom software to accomplish the art-direction goals of an element or environment. A person with a thorough understanding of 3-D computer programs, and how lights are specified within them, would be an excellent candidate for this role. Specific RenderMan experience is ideal.