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Interviews
1 June 2023
From starting off in Editorial to VFX Supervisor, Robin talks us through his VFX journey, biggest career highlight and what brought him to Outpost!
Can you tell us how you got into VFX?
At first, I just wanted to work with computers and be part of the collaborative process of creating games and movies. It’s only when I started in the industry that I knew I would never leave.
What route did you take to become a VFX Supervisor? Was it something you aspired to later in your career?
I was never one with a clear career path, when I started in Editorial back at Atomic Fiction, I knew that it was only a way into the industry and acted on it quickly.
Within a few weeks I was scavenging modeling tasks that no one had bandwidth to take on, as well as set dressing. Anything I could get my hands on I jumped on. It put me into uncomfortable positions, but it also allowed me to get familiar with pretty much every aspect of what makes a shot work and what doesn't.
I only started thinking about leadership positions on Ad Astra where I was responsible for most of the layout and asset work. It gave me the confidence to step into a CG Supe position and from there after a few more shows, the leap to VFX Supe felt natural.
What brought you to Outpost?
Having two kids, work-life balance is my priority. Outpost simply felt like the natural place for it and the work looks great.
What part of being a VFX Supervisor do you enjoy most?
It’s hard to pinpoint one thing. I really enjoy seeing the show come together, how it evolves and grows. As well as brainstorming problematics with clients. Nothing quite beats the feeling of receiving client feedback calling hard shots final though.
Can you talk us through your biggest highlight of your career so far?
Being able to attend the VES ceremony to represent the team for The Witcher was a nice moment, it was a very creature heavy show and I'm very proud of how everything ended up looking. Sadly, we lost to another The Witcher submission, but such is life.
What makes a team great and why?
Communication, hands down, is the most important thing. It’s hard, especially in a fast-paced environment like VFX but proper communication and awareness to other departments and team members issues really makes the difference between hitting a wall and strolling by.
Would you describe Outpost as a supportive environment?
I would. For me, the main contributing factor for this supportive environment is upper management. Everyone seems to really understand what every show needs and does their absolute hardest to put us in a position to succeed.
How do you make sure you bring your most creative self to work each day?
I think it's important to keep it fun and not be afraid to let go every now and then. We tend to work in a stressful industry, and I find being goofy and honest helps maintain a healthy work environment which helps push creativity forward.
What is your favourite discipline?
I find there is something oddly satisfying about a very solid sculpt, couldn’t tell you why.
How would you describe Outpost in three words?
Stress-free. Quality.
Which project has brought you the most joy to work on?
Oh boy, I’d lie if I didn't say that Deadpool holds a special place in my heart. But in terms of sheer fun, Ad Astra and The Witcher are up there.
Finally, some quickfire questions:
What’s the one thing you always keep on your desk?
Candies
You can eat one thing for the rest of your life – what is it?
Chicken and Waffle, it’s simply the superior meal.
What would be your superpower?
Teleportation
You’ve got a couple of hours to kill – what do you watch?
I’ll most likely play video games or watch a comedy show
What are you currently learning?
Patience (kids tend to test it)
Any pets?
Golden retriever called Raymond
Favourite way to relax?
Video games or reading a book
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
A vineyard somewhere in France or Italy
What irritates you?
Laziness
Guilty pleasures?
Every now and then I’ll go to my favorite coffee shop for a solid coffee and a fancy breakfast
Favourite song?
Changes every couple of weeks
Last present you bought yourself?
Computer peripheral
Want to work alongside Robin Lamontagne? Explore all our current opportunities on our career page!