Head of Previs

The Head of Previs works with the Head of Cinematography to interpret the storyboards and animatic of the project and adapts them into a 3D environment. Manages the camera team, helping guide the department to translate the artistic vision of the director and cinematographer. Maintains quality standards for the department, coaching, and mentoring the team to create work products that exhibit high standards both technically and artistically.

Sony Pictures Animation is a pre-production animation studio based in Culver City, California, creating both feature animation and animated series with artists from around the world. We pride ourselves on empowering filmmakers to lead the creative process, and allowing the hand of the artist to be truly felt, with the goal of producing bold and innovative visual storytelling.

Responsibilities:

• Work with the Director(s), Head of Cinematography, Head of Story, Editorial, and Production Designer to execute the visual narrative of the film.
• Responsible for the camera, staging, and set dressing of the film.
• Supervision of Layout Artists, including conducting interviews, making hiring recommendations, and providing feedback to artists, for both rough layout and final layout process.
• Provide timelines and budget estimates for all aspects of the layout process.
• Stage every shot and plot the actions that will take place within each scene.
• Ensure that all sequences to be animated are set up properly.
• Work with the Head of Cinematography, Production Designer and Head of Story as they translate the boards into 3D space.
• Provide and innovate ideas/solutions for the layout process, bringing in new tools and ideas to bring the concept to life on screen.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 5 years of experience working as a Layout Artist on animated feature films.
• Experience in building and leading successful teams in a supervisory position.
• Excellent written & oral communication skills.
• Proficiency using a Mac, particularly in design related programs like Photoshop
• Proficiency using Unreal and Maya
• Sound knowledge of cinematography and editorial principals.
• Must be detail oriented with outstanding organizational skills.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize, ensuring all assignments are completed in an accurate and timely manner.
• Must be flexible and able to work in an environment where needs and priorities are subject to constant revision.
• Must be a self-starter and a great teammate.

To apply, please include a resume and a link to your portfolio. Please make sure to include any passwords to your work in your cover letter and/or in your resume.

The anticipated base salary for this position is $2,764/week to $4,000/week. This role qualifies for benefits pursuant to the collective bargaining agreement. The actual salary offered will depend on a variety of factors.

Sony Pictures Animation is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, veteran status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, or other protected characteristics.