Barnstorm VFX is hiring: Artiste Matchmove/Layout Artist in New York

Matchmove / Layout Artist

Department: 3D / Matchmove & Layout Location: Montreal, Canada, Montreal Employment Type: Full-time
About the Role
Barnstorm VFX is looking for a talented and detail-oriented Matchmove / Layout Artist to join our 3D team.
The ideal candidate will be responsible for accurately reconstructing camera movement, object movement, and scene geometry from live-action footage, as well as establishing initial 3D scene layouts for visual effects production.
Working closely with the Layout Supervisor, 3D Supervisors, and other departments, you will help establish the technical foundations required for successful VFX shots, ensuring accurate integration of CG elements into live-action plates.
Responsibilities
Perform 3D camera tracking and matchmoving of live-action footage.
Reconstruct camera movements, lens characteristics, and object movements from filmed sequences.
Create accurate 3D layouts based on live-action plates, including camera setups, proxy geometry, and scene positioning.
Establish correct scale, orientation, and spatial relationships within 3D environments.
Build and refine geometry to support camera tracking, scene reconstruction, and downstream departments.
Prepare clean, organized, and technically accurate scenes for handoff to other departments.
Work closely with compositing, animation, FX, lighting, and other departments to ensure smooth production workflows.
Troubleshoot tracking and layout issues while maintaining accuracy and consistency.
Follow production guidelines, naming conventions, and pipeline requirements.
Meet production deadlines while maintaining a high standard of quality.
Requirements
Previous experience in a Matchmove, Layout, or 3D VFX Artist role.
Strong understanding of 3D camera tracking and scene reconstruction principles.
Good knowledge of camera and lens properties, including focal length, distortion, and perspective.
Understanding of 3D space, scale, perspective, and spatial relationships.
Experience working with reference geometry and proxy modelling.
Ability to interpret live-action footage and translate it into accurate 3D scenes.
Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a production team.
Good communication and organizational skills.
Software Knowledge
Experience with 3DEqualizer, Maya, or equivalent matchmove software.
Familiarity with Nuke and basic compositing workflows.
Knowledge of Maya scene preparation and 3D production pipelines.
Experience with lens distortion workflows is considered an asset.
Nice to Have
Experience working on feature films, episodic television, or high-end VFX productions.
Understanding of photogrammetry and environment reconstruction.
Knowledge of Python or scripting for workflow automation.
Familiarity with USD and modern VFX production pipelines.
Experience working with both camera tracking and object tracking.
What We're Looking For
We are looking for someone who is technically minded, detail-oriented, and passionate about visual effects. The ideal candidate understands the importance of accurate camera tracking and clean scene preparation, and takes pride in delivering reliable work that supports the entire 3D and compositing pipeline.