Decide what special effects are needed for a film, then hire all of the artists to create them.

PROS:

You get to work with a variety of artists, like clay modelers, painters, and computer graphics pros.

CONS:

You have to convince the director that the shot you envision will work—and the hours can be really long.

HOW DO YOU START?

The Visual Effects Society(visualeffectssociety.com) can help you find someone local who may let you shadow her on the job.

STUDY:

Go to a specialized school, like the Gnomon School of Visual Effects (www.gnomon3d.com) if you can. Or take any filmmaking or photography classes your college offers.

PRACTICE:

Learn software such as iMovie, Maya, Illustrator, Shake, Combustion, and After Effects.

WHAT YOU'LL MAKE:

Starting out (as an assistant), around $600 a week; earning potential, $2,500 a week or more.

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