A special effects (SFX) technician produces visual, pyrotechnic (explosive) or physical effects in order to create a particular impression or illusion in a film, television, stage or video production.
There are three main areas of work:
You could be:
The figures below are only a guide. Actual salaries may vary, depending on:
Most special effects technicians are freelance. The Broadcasting Entertainment Cinematograph and Theatre Union (BECTU) website carries recommendations for freelance rates. The recommended minimum rates for a 10-hour day are:
Workforce Employment Status
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You need:
If you are aged 18 or over you may be interested in The Network. The Network is held each year alongside the TV Festival in Edinburgh. If selected you would attend for four free days of masterclasses and workshops which will provide you with the skills, knowledge and contacts to start a career in TV. You can usually apply from January to May.
Courtesy of BFI
The following organisations may be able to provide further information.
Association of British Theatre Technicians (ABTT)
Tel: 020 7242 9200
E-mail:
office@abtt.org.uk
Website:
http://www.abtt.org.uk/
Twitter:
@theabtt
BECTU Scotland (Broadcasting Entertainment Cinematograph and Theatre Union)
E-mail:
info@bectu.org.uk
Website:
http://www.bectu.org.uk
Twitter:
@bectu
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/BECTUOfficial
Edinburgh TV Festival
Tel: 020 7278 9515
E-mail:
info@thetvfestival.com
Website:
https://thetvfestival.joyn-us.app/
Twitter:
@EdinburghTVFest
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/ThisIsEdinburghTVFestival
ScreenSkills
Tel: 020 7713 9800
E-mail:
info@screenskills.com
Website:
https://www.screenskills.com
Twitter:
@UKScreenSkills
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/UKScreenSkills
ScreenSkills (formerly Creative Skillset) works with the UK’s screen-based creative media industries to develop skills and talent from classroom to boardroom.