Framestore is a world-renowned, multi-Academy Award-winning creative studio. We have collaborated with the most visionary storytellers in modern cinema to design, plan, and execute breathtaking images. From photorealistic creatures to expansive digital environments, our focus is on finding innovative solutions that set new global benchmarks for visual effects.

In our Melbourne hub, we combine elite talent with cutting-edge technology to “reframe the possible.” We are currently looking for a Look Development Artist to join our growing team. This is a pivotal role dedicated to producing high-quality, photorealistic shading for assets used in major motion pictures and high-end episodic content.

As a Look Development Artist, your primary responsibility is to define the final appearance of a CG asset. You will translate texture maps and geometric data into physically accurate surfaces that react perfectly to digital light. Whether you are working on the subtle translucency of human skin, the complex anisotropy of brushed metal, or the weathered patina of an ancient environment, your work ensures that every asset feels “integrated” and “real.”

Key Responsibilities

• Shading & Material Mastery: Produce high-quality, photorealistic shading and look development for a wide variety of CG assets.
• Supervisory Collaboration: Work closely with VFX/CG Supervisors and the Head of Department (HoD) to solve lookdev challenges and achieve the specific “look” required by the director.
• Pipeline Optimization: Support the HoD in developing new shading methods and ensuring that all setups are optimized for efficient render-farm usage.
• Cross-Departmental Synergy: Collaborate with Modelling, Texturing, and Lighting departments to ensure assets are built and UV-mapped correctly for the lookdev stage.
• Deadlines & Quality: Maintain the highest standards of quality while strictly adhering to production schedules.

We are looking for an artist who balances a keen aesthetic eye with deep technical knowledge of light and surface interaction.

Essential Skills

• Industry Experience: Previous experience in look development specifically for high-end VFX films.
• Physically Plausible Rendering: A strong foundation in energy conservation and physically accurate shading techniques.
• Software Proficiency: Extensive knowledge of PRman (RenderMan), Arnold, or similar raytrace-based production renderers within a Maya environment.
• Lighting & Photography: A solid understanding of real-world lighting, photography, and how light behaves in the physical world.
• Colour Science: A strong grasp of colour-space (ACES, Linear) and its importance in a modern film pipeline.
• Compositing Basics: Basic knowledge of Nuke to verify how rendered layers and passes will behave in the final composite.
• Systems & Scripting: Proficiency in Linux/Unix operating systems and the ability to use Python or MEL for workflow automation.

Preferred Skills (The “Nice-to-Haves”)

• Digital Painting: Experience with Mari, Substance Painter, or Photoshop.
• Asset Skills: Practical experience in modelling, texturing, and UV mapping.
• Problem Solving: The ability to work within a pre-set pipeline while creatively solving technical issues as they arise.

At Framestore, we believe that diversity is our greatest creative asset. We are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every “Framestore-er” can reach their full potential.

• A Human Process: We review every application manually. We do not use AI screening tools because we believe a human eye is necessary to appreciate the nuance of a portfolio.
• Accessibility: Our Melbourne studio is designed for inclusivity. We offer step-free entry, accessible toilets, and dedicated quiet spaces for team members who may need a sensory-friendly environment.
• Commitment to Equity: We employ talent across all genders, races, and backgrounds. For context, the Australian VFX industry is rapidly diversifying; recent data suggests that roughly 28% of the technical workforce in Australian VFX identifies as female, and Framestore is actively working to increase representation across all departments. We encourage applicants from all walks of life to apply.

At Framestore, our job descriptions are guidelines, not rigid barriers. We know that talent comes from many different backgrounds. If your skills are transferable—perhaps you come from a high-end gaming background or architectural visualization—and you feel this role is right for you, we encourage you to apply. —

How to Apply

To apply, please complete our online application form or send your resume and portfolio directly to: Email: recruiters@framestore.com

Subject Line: Look Development Artist – Melbourne