Render Wrangler
In CGI, Rendering is the process of converting computer data and out-putting it as a sequence of viewable images. Render Wranglers monitor and control the rendering process and manage the render farm. They can work on a project from previs at the start of production until the final material is delivered for compositing.
What is the job?
Render Wranglers supervise the rendering process which can involve monitoring anything from a few computers to a major render farm of, perhaps, a thousand machines. Artists from various departments submit completed data for rendering. This is placed in a queue for Render Wranglers to prioritise the work and allocate machines. They continuously check the computers to ensure there are no technical or machine problems which might interfere with a successful output.
Render Wranglers may receive directions from Producers, Supervisors, Co-Ordinators or Resource Managers and have contact with artists in various CG departments, particularly to sort out problems that they are unable to resolve themselves.
Rendering can be required in the planning stages and throughout production, including development and tests for models, animation, effects, lighting, etc. Although Animators usually check their own work in progress, animation may need to be rendered to view subtle movements such as facial expressions. Render Wranglers liaise with the Compositors about the delivery of final rendered CG elements.
As new entrants, Render Wranglers can expect to shadow more senior colleagues for a limited period before starting on day shifts with supervision. With more experience, they can also expect to be assigned to night shifts. Rendering Departments work on rota systems; there are usually three shifts over 24 hours so the job can involve long and anti-social hours.
Typical career routes
This can be an entry level job, particularly suitable for new entrants with good computer skills. Render Wranglers may be graduates with relevant degrees or specialised training, or Runners with suitable aptitude who are promoted to this role. Depending on individual talent, skills and interests, the job can lead into most 3D departments, including Layout, Modelling, Animation, Effects, Matte Painting, etc., or into Co-ordinating.
Essential knowledge and skills
This role offers a good opportunity to gain professional experience and acquire a broad based knowledge of CGI procedures within a production environment.
Key Skills include:
- high degree of computer literacy;
- knowledge of at least one of the relevant 3D packages (eg. Maya, XSI or 3D Studio Max) currently in use by the industry (and familiarity with other programmes can be an advantage);
- ability to learn new software quickly, and learn on the job, if necessary;
- enthusiasm to learn and develop professionally;
- ability to analyse and problem solve;
- capacity to take responsibility and ability to manage and prioritise their time and workload;
- ability to record information accurately and produce reports;
- ability to take instructions and work as part of a team, with the capacity to work with a minimum of supervision, when required;
- ability to work under pressure if required;
- experience in scripting is desirable but not essential;
- respect for the procedures and requirements of a particular studio, production or pipeline;
- knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures.
Training and qualifications
Render Wranglers are likely to have gained a degree in Computer Animation, Computer Science or similar, or in an art-related subject. Even with a less appropriate degree, they may have chosen to acquire some CGI training on specialised short courses, some of which may be programme-specific. Applicants will be expected to provide a relevant CV with a covering letter.
Where to go for more information
Skillset is the Sector Skills Council for the Audio Visual Industries. The first sources of information for all jobs in the industry are the National Occupational Standards. Browse Skillset's website for links to our network of training partners, information about training and access to the comprehensive Skillset/BFI course database. Finally, Skillset Careers is UK's only specialist media careers advice service; for detailed media careers information and advice, visit www.skillset.org/careers.
Websites
- Animation World Network (AWN)
- 3D World Magazine
- High End 3D
- Computer Graphics World Magazine
- Video Effects Employment Website
Publications
- The Art of Maya by Alias Wavefront. Pub. Sybex (General Maya Reference Resource)
For a more comprehensive list of publications, websites, festivals and trade shows, refer to the Animation section of the Skillset website.
Glossary
- Previs (aka Previz, an abbreviation of Pre-visualisation): Pre-visualisation is the production of a production of a computer generated preview of the action of a scene, sequence or entire project. Usually produced by post production facility houses or dedicated previs production companies, this method was originally conceived to pre-plan scenes which would later involve complicated VFX (Visual Effects). Now it is often used to pre-plan an entire feature, enabling directors to plan and refine all aspects of their production in a (relatively) controlled computer environment. These include composition, editing, pacing, performance, camera moves, etc., as well as VFX.
- Render Farm: A large number of machines dedicated to out-putting a high volume of rendering.
- Scripting: Writing Computer software, to often address specific problems or project requirements.
- Compositing: The 2D process of constructing the final image by combining layers of previously created material.
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