VFX for Indies: The Visual Effects Podcast for Filmmakers
For independent filmmakers, navigating the challenges of using visual effects (VFX) can be a daunting task. This visual effects podcast series spotlights independent filmmakers who have dipped their toes (or jumped head-first) into the world of visual effects, and explores their challenges, opportunities, and lessons learned through the process. VFX for Indies is not like other visual effects podcasts. A typical visual effects podcast is overly technical and is generally geared toward VFX professionals. VFX for Indies tries to steer clear of too much technical jargon and instead focuses on the high-level topics that concern all filmmakers. If you’re a filmmaker just getting started with using VFX in your movies, then VFX for Indies is the visual effects podcast for you!
Hosted by Foxtrot X-Ray’s founder and “chief pixel pusher” Paul DeNigris, who brings to the conversation 30 years of experience in both independent filmmaking and visual effects.
Global VFX Challenges: Industry Insights from 20-Year Veteran Joseph Bell
The business of visual effects is constantly evolving, and right now we're witnessing what 20-year industry veteran Joseph Bell calls a "market correction" rather than just post-strike recovery. In this eye-opening conversation, Joseph draws on his experience at ILM, Lucasfilm, FuseFX, and Technicolor to provide a nuanced perspective on where the industry stands and where it's heading.
How VFX Transformed an Award-Winning Marketing Campaign
Scottie Yang takes us behind the scenes of "Future 48," an award-winning marketing campaign that used time travel and visual effects to transform perceptions about manufacturing careers in Arizona. As producer at Ideas Collide, Yang brought his unique background—spanning Hollywood post-production, competitive volleyball, and brand storytelling—to create something that transcended typical corporate content.
The Technical Artist's Path: Pedro Andrade's Journey from Engineering to VFX
Welcome to another episode of VFX for Indies, the podcast where visual effects meet independent filmmaking. This week, host Paul DeNigris sits down with Pedro Andrade, founder of @CompLair and veteran VFX pro whose credits include Star Trek Into Darkness, Doctor Who, Guardians of the Galaxy, and more. From engineering in Portugal to working on global franchises, Pedro shares his unique journey into VFX, how music production shaped his compositing mindset, and why creative problem-solving is essential—no matter the budget.
VFX Secrets & Scares: 2025 International Horror & Sci-Fi Film Festival Sneak Peek!
The visual effects revolution has transformed indie horror and sci-fi filmmaking, and nowhere is this more evident than at the International Horror and Sci-Fi Film Festival. In this captivating conversation, we sit down with the festival's executive staff to explore how VFX has evolved throughout the festival's 20-year history.
Behind the VFX Magic: From Buffy to The Flash with VFX Supervisor Dave Funston
Take a peek behind the curtain of some of the most iconic genre TV shows of all time! This week on VFX for Indies, host Paul DeNigris sits down with VFX Supervisor Dave Funston, whose incredible career spans nearly 25 years, from Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel to Firefly, True Blood, Smallville, The Flash, and more.
VFX in VR: Storytelling and Innovation with LightSail VR's Matthew Celia
Discover the fascinating world of virtual reality storytelling with our special guest, Matthew Celia, the creative director at LightSail VR. Through an engaging conversation, we promise you’ll gain unique insights into how Matthew’s journey from film school to pioneering VR storytelling has shaped the narrative landscape, where story takes precedence over technology. We highlight the remarkable work on projects like "Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension," illustrating the synergy between technical innovation and compelling storytelling that defines LightSail VR’s reputation.
VFX For Indies Season 2 Trailer
This season on VFX For Indies, we chat with filmmakers pushing boundaries in VR, we talk with VFX Supervisors from some of the biggest film and TV franchises in the world, and we dive into how VFX is used outside of the traditional filmmaking space.
What’s in a VFX Supervisor’s Kit?
In this episode of VFX for Indies, Paul DeNigris, CEO and founder of Foxtrot X-Ray, walks you through the essentials of a VFX supervisor's kit. From color charts and tracking markers to cameras and grip gear, learn what you need to be fully prepared on set. Whether you’re an experienced VFX artist or just starting out, this comprehensive breakdown will equip you with the must-have tools to bridge the gap between the director’s vision and the final visual effects.
How to Choose the Right VFX Team
In this video, we're diving into an essential topic for every filmmaker: how to choose the right VFX team.
Selecting the right VFX partner is crucial for delivering stunning visuals on time and within budget. Whether you’re an indie filmmaker, a producer on a large-scale project, or a director with a creative vision, the right VFX team can make all the difference.