Alyson from Pixar

Alyson started working at Pixar right after she graduated ETC in 2005. She has presented about 3 topics which are "How to make animations", "Tools Development" and "Tips for getting a job".

1. How to make animations.
In Pixar, the most important rule is "Story is King". They usually spend years developing a really good story. After they have it, they research "Art" and "Characters". They are using many references and trying to use real sculptures and lighting models to find proper art style and characters. The next step is making a layout and sets for environment. Creating animation and effects for whole scenes is followed. Lighting is the last work to finalize the film.

2. Tools Development.
Alyson emphasized that they are developing tools like they are making animations. This means they also make a story board for new tools by interviewing animators. Also, like film department, there is a director driven system in the Tools development team. The director has a right to make a final decision for tools and this is working very well since he has a lot of experiences about it. This director driven system is the key system for both department which enables the directors to maximize their creativity and ability.

3. Tips for getting a job.
Alyson explained that students should know themselves before they apply to companies. Also, being aggressive is another key point to find a job. She introduced her episode that she went to San Francisco from Ohio just for having lunch with a person working at Pixar. This brought her another interview chance and she got the job from Pixar at the end. In addition, communication and public speaking skills are always important. She said ETC is really good place to improve those skills.