The compositor is both an artist and a technician. Their work consists of assembling and mixing several sources of images or special effects (digitised real shots or images created with 2D or 3D software, still or animated) to compose a single shot that is integrated into the editing of a film so that the result appears natural, even if it contains virtual elements.
The compositor is both an artist and a technician. Their job is to assemble and mix several sources of images or special effects.
An image arranger
Let’s draw a parallel between the Compositor and the musical arranger!
The arranger, who is not necessarily the composer of the music, has to put the right note in the right place on the right instrument. The arranger uses the right ingredients and creates a musical alchemy in the finalisation of a work.
The Compositor also creates an alchemy, but this time with images in 3D. A compositor is a professional who uses various sources of images (assembling the various elements rendered to make up a scene: foreground, background, characters, set elements, etc.) to create a single shot that is integrated into the editing of a film, advert, etc.
Clearly, it assembles all the graphic elements produced for the film to obtain a coherent and homogenous final image.
A methodical creative
The Compositor is a true artist. They work on the mood of a film and retouch certain images to optimise artistic quality.
This profession requires attention to detail in the composition of images (integration, colours, lighting) as well as the ability to multi-task, prioritise and solve problems. Compositors are creative, logical, autonomous and methodical.
Clearly, the world of images relies on the know-how of Compositors, who work in most areas of animation and post-production. They are one category of the VFX team. It is essential for them to have a perfect knowledge of the management process and specific software (animation, graphics, special effects, live action sequences, 2D animation).
The job market in this sector is buoyant. With experience after a higher education course in 3D animation and special effects, you can aspire to climb the ladder to become, why not, sequence supervisor, composition supervisor or even special effects supervisor, and so put to good use the artistic, technical and decision-making skills you have acquired over time.
Compositors work in studios, agencies or on a freelance basis. They may be needed on an ad hoc basis for short, intensive assignments, or on a regular basis for animated films, feature films or commercials.
