David Soto
Calgary,,Alberta
Summary
Self-identified human with over 22 years experience in not taking life too seriously.
As a compositor I have made my mom proud on two large-scale feature films: Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny and Twisters. Throughout my (short) career I have developed a reputation for being a problem-solver and effective communicator, with a keen eye for detail and the ability to work under pressure. When learning something new I may make a mistake from time to time but I assure you, I’m not a complete idiot—just some parts are missing.
I have a good eye for images, an understanding of composition and colour, and enjoy solving technical problems.
I love books and movies, specifically the gothic sub-genres. I admire Jane Austen and Stanley Kubrick tremendously, and loathe resumes but recognize them as a necessary evil.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
Work History
Compositor
Industrial Light & Magic
09.2023 - 06.2024
- Integrated digitally rendered elements with live-action footage using Foundry Nuke, requiring both technical and creative expertise.
- Optimized Nuke scripts for efficiency and ensured quality control by checking shots and correcting technical mistakes.
- Communicated shot status and changes to team leads, production managers, and supervisors.
- Worked primarily in a Linux distribution called CentOS.
- Contributed mainly to the show Twisters.
- Mentored under such artists as Michael Ranalletta, Paul Churchill, Matt Leonard, Sam Johnston, Ryan Clarke, and a few others.
Compositing Intern
Soho VFX
10.2022 - 12.2022
- Interned at a visual effects house in Toronto, handling technical entry-level tasks for Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.
- Responsibilities included stitching lat-long images, rotoscoping, object removal, 2D/3D tracking, and projecting cleanups.
- Worked under the VFX supervisor and compositing lead, collaborating with other compositors.
VFX Editor
BRT 2 Productions LTD.
05.2022 - 06.2022
- Hired as a short-term freelancer to correct minor technical issues in footage, including object and crew removal, tracking, and stabilization.
- Communicated directly with the client.
- Contributed to the second season of Backroad Truckers.
Mover
Great Movers
10.2021 - 05.2022
- Packed, transported, and unpacked belongings as part of a 4-person moving team.
- Worked 3-5 days a week with shifts ranging from 6 to 14 hours.
Piano Instructor
Freelance
01.2016 - 06.2019
- Initially started as an assistant music instructor at a rock band summer camp for young kids. Eventually began giving private instruction to young beginners.
- Communicated with parents to maintain regular communication about student progress and any concerns.
- Developed musical instruction with goal of end-of-term recital performance.
Education
Nuke Compositing Diploma - Compositing
CG Spectrum College of Digital Art And Animation
Richmond, Australia10.2022
Skills
- Windows and Linux
- Google Suite and Microsoft 360 Suite
- Compositing (advanced), FX (basic), Modelling (basic), Texturing and UVs (basic)
- Nuke (advanced), Maya (basic), Houdini (basic), Blender (basic)
- Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve
- Team communication, strategic thinking, and problem solving
Languages
English
Native or Bilingual
Spanish
Native or Bilingual
Timeline
Compositor
Industrial Light & Magic
09.2023 - 06.2024
Compositing Intern
Soho VFX
10.2022 - 12.2022
VFX Editor
BRT 2 Productions LTD.
05.2022 - 06.2022
Mover
Great Movers
10.2021 - 05.2022
Piano Instructor
Freelance
01.2016 - 06.2019
Nuke Compositing Diploma - Compositing
CG Spectrum College of Digital Art And Animation
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