Storyboard Artist at Crystal Dynamics

Crystal Dynamics is looking for a Storyboard Artist [3 month, full-time, project-based] to join our team. This role is pivotal in translating scripts and narrative concepts into captivating storyboard sequences, playing a key role in the visual storytelling of our AAA game projects. Utilizing your artistic prowess and cinematic insight, you will effectively bring to life the emotions, actions, and ambiance of our game narratives. Collaborating closely with the animation team and directors, your skills in drawing, composition, and cinematic techniques will be critical in visually conveying the story of our games. 

As a Storyboard Artist, you will: 

• Transform written and verbal directions into dynamic storyboard sequences and animatics. 
• Confidently pitch storyboard sequences to leads and directors during daily reviews and formal presentations. 
• Revise storyboards, animatics, and related materials as necessary to align with the creative vision of the project. 
• Develop detailed asset diagrams and camera plans to accurately illustrate character positioning and scene layouts. 
• Collaborate with team members to ensure a seamless translation of 2D sequences into 3D previsualizations. 
• Enhance the storyboard processes and methodologies within the team, contributing to the department's overall improvement.

To be considered for this role, we require the following: 

• A portfolio that includes storyboards or sequential art, ideally showing Live Action realism, and, if available, illustrations or photography. The ideal portfolio will demonstrate: 
  • Excellent draftsmanship skills, with emphasis on perspective and anatomy.
  • Understanding of the principles and practices of cinematography and has a strong sense of cinematic timing.
  • A keen eye for composition, mood, and lighting.
  • Purposeful placements of cameras and lenses for a diversity of effects.
  • Wide range of rendering skills, from thumbnail sketches to full color panels.
• Proficiency with Adobe Photoshop, After Effects, Premiere, or similar software. 
• Excellent verbal and visual communication skills; specifically the ability to pitch the ideas effectively. 
• Recognition of the importance of feedback in refining work to enhance the final product. 
• Strong independent time management skills, with the ability to deliver high-quality work on schedule. 
• A passion for advancing cinematic storytelling standards in AAA games.  

Preference will be given to candidates who have: 

• Knowledge of basic animation principles and cinematic pipelines.
• Familiarity with 3D software. 
• Understanding of AAA game cinematic pipelines.  

It'll be a bonus if you also have: 

• Previous experience in a AAA studio environment. 
• Experience or understanding of Unreal Engine.