WHO HE IS: A former adman on the business side, Ryan McDougal made “a turn on the dime” to visual effects artist after an intensive 15 months of animation and effects study at the Vancouver Film School. “It was a big gamble.”
He’s worked at Vitamin, a division of Filmworkers Club, since July for clients that include Nike, McDonald’s and Microsoft.
“I’m humbled by how fast and well-received I’ve been.”
WHAT’S HE UP TO: For the past three months, McDougal’s been creating animation on a teaser for Vitamin’s 5-minute promotion piece. It’s based on the song, “Don’t Wait for Tom,” by the band Over the Rhine.
PROS: “I’m able to create whatever comes to mind.”
CONS: “The fine details can be tedious when computers don’t work and I have to re-do things.”
MOST MEMORABLE PROJECT: A 60-second online spot that’s part of a branding campaign for Microsoft Zune?their take on the iPod?with Softimage and Maya. Client was L.A.-based agency 72 and Sunny.
BIG BREAK: Going to L.A. to design layout and previz (high tech storyboards) for the new Nicholas Cage feature, “National Treasure: Book of Secrets,” for Proof.
HEADACHES: “Lack of sleep”
KEY TO SUCCESS: “Determination, confidence, being open-minded.”
