Combining the talents of students on LCC’s MA 3D Computer Animation and MA Visual Effects courses, the project aimed to further develop their skills and provide vital industry insight.
The Third Floor is an award-winning studio which uses the virtual world to imagine, plan and problem-solve stories across film, television, games, virtual reality (VR) and themed attractions.
In their first collaboration with LCC, The Third Floor team tasked students with creating an animated sequence focusing on shot narrative to tell a short chase story. This narrative would require elements such as characters picking up objects, as well as a sense of resolution across the arc from beginning to end.
Luke Bridger, Course Leader for MA 3D Computer Animation, explained the significance of the opportunity for students aspiring to work in the field.
“The importance of this collaboration was really in learning the value of teamwork and gaining industry feedback,” he said.
“There is no substitute for the advice our students were given by studio seniors like Vincent Aupetit, who even visited the College to help them during the project.
“The only way to progress in this competitive industry is by getting feedback from other industry professionals who have been doing this for a long time.”
"Advice from elite professionals"
We chatted to MA 3D Computer Animation student Zhuoqun (Nyoka) Wang about the project, as well as the highlights of the course so far.
Tell us a little bit about The Third Floor collaboration, as well as your role.
The Third Floor project was about making a pre-visualisation animation with a given environment set and rigged 3D characters. Students from MA 3D Computer Animation and MA Visual Effects were divided into two groups so we could collaborate together.
My group came up with a story and drew a brief storyboard, and I worked as an animator on different shots. Our project was divided into small scenes that were assigned to three animators who also worked on the cameras.
What was the best thing about taking part in the project?
For me, the best thing about the project was that we could hear advice from elite professionals like Vincent from The Third Floor. This feedback was very precious, and has helped us to stay motivated in both study and work.
I also enjoyed using the industry-standard pipeline software, F-Track, which has made me better prepared for future working.
What have been your highlights of studying on the MA 3D Animation course at LCC?
My highlights would include:
- Having access to a fully-equipped studio to work on my project
- Being able to use industry-standard software such as Deadline Render Farm, 3D Equalizer and F-Track.
- Being taught by our course leader, Luke Bridger. Both in class and out of class, he is very patient with our problems. He knows the teaching subjects very well, and also provides many valuable 3D resources for us to use.
Related links
- Find out more about the MA 3D Computer Animation and MA Visual Effects courses.
- Explore LCC's Screen School.
- Learn more about postgraduate study at LCC.
