JAKE AKUNA
VFX PRODUCER/SUPERVISOR/ARTIST
When I'm not helping filmmakers plan or execute visual effects for their productions, I'm educating my YouTube audience on the importance of VFX pre-production.
Through my channel, I provide actionable insights on how proper planning can save time, reduce costs, and ensure a smoother post-production process.
SHOWREEL
AUTHOR OF SHOOTING FOR VFX:
YOUR ON-SET GUIDE TO SAVING MONEY IN POST-PRODUCTION
Whether you’re a director, producer, cinematographer or even script supervisor, visual effects can be a game-changer for your film. But without careful planning, VFX can also lead to unexpected costs and logistical challenges that drain your resources. That’s where “Shooting for VFX” comes in.
This essential guide provides a roadmap for integrating visual effects into your film from pre-production to post, ensuring your effects don’t just look amazing but also stay on budget. Written with the indie filmmaker in mind, Shooting for VFX breaks down complex VFX processes into practical, actionable tips that anyone can use to streamline their workflow.
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HULLABALOO, EDITOR/LEAD COMPOSITOR
Edited and led compositing efforts for Hullabaloo, using live-action techniques to add cinematic depth and elevate the look of 2D animation.
Introduced 3D tools and workflows, including dynamic camera moves and environmental effects, to enrich the storytelling and add realism to key scenes.
Implemented proprietary procedural techniques to create “in-betweens” for select shots, converting animations from 12fps to 24fps, resulting in smoother animations, setting a new benchmark for production quality.
Collaborated closely with animators to integrate new workflows seamlessly, improving production efficiency and inspiring creative solutions across departments.
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SPECTROS, VFX SUPERVISOR
VFX Supervision: Led the VFX teams for Netflix’s international series “Spectros,” managing pre-production and execution across four VFX houses. Ensured the project stayed within budget with no overages.
International Team Leadership: Coordinated deliverable assets and supervised four independent Brazilian VFX houses, both remotely from Los Angeles and on-site, in São Paulo, ensuring seamless production workflows.
Strategic Planning and Budget Management: Successfully pre-visualized, budgeted and produced visual effects, maintaining strict adherence to the budget and mitigating potential risks.
Technical Expertise and On-Set Supervision: Directed the technical layout and on-set execution, ensuring efficient post-production processes and timely delivery of high-quality visual effects.
Innovative Problem Solving: Developed creative solutions to complex VFX challenges, significantly enhancing the visual storytelling of “Spectros.”
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HOLLYWOOD UNVEILED PODCAST, CO-HOST
Co-Host and Producer of “Hollywood Unveiled” Podcast: Co-created and co-hosted a podcast that explores the Hollywood entertainment industry, getting to know the people and stories behind the magic.
Interviewing Industry Leaders: Conducted insightful interviews with directors, producers, sound designers and other key professionals, highlighting their essential roles and contributions.
Film Retrospectives and Unique Insights: Presented in-depth movie retrospectives, revealing hidden gems, little-known production facts and unique behind-the-scenes details.
Leadership and Networking: Built relationships with high-profile industry professionals, leveraging these connections to provide valuable insights to our audience.
Interpersonal Skills:
Leadership: Leading teams and managing large-scale projects.
Project Management: Planning and executing complex VFX projects.
Team Collaboration: Working with diverse teams and stakeholders.
Problem-Solving: Developing innovative solutions for complex issues.
Communication: Conveying technical information clearly.
Adaptability: Thriving in fast-paced environments and learning new technologies quickly.
