Where to find Video References as an FX Artist?

The 3 most important things for any artist: References, References, References!

As an FX Artist whose job is to create simulations like Fire, Smoke, Lightning, Cloth Hair, and more we often look for real-life references to replicate the motion.

Not just for an FX Artist, but every artist knows the importance of research and gathering as many references as possible. References are important. (Do a push up every time you read the word reference in this article)

So here I've gathered some really good sources that are extremely helpful to an artist when searching for references. I hope this article helps especially beginners so that they don't have to waste much time trying to find the right place for reference videos or images.

So let's dive into the list. In no particular order

1. The Slow Mo Guys Youtube channel

Youtube without a doubt is the best place to consider for references. Especially quirky science & experiments channels like The Slow Mo Guys. With over 10 million subscribers this channel has a wide variety of slow-motion videos from giant water balloons to slow-motion vomit, firing bullets, wrecking balls, flame throwers, explosions, popcorn popping, lightning strikes all in slow motion.

2. Vimeo Stock

Vimeo Stock has a great library of stock footage. You can find literally anything here. I can undoubtedly say that this is a goldmine for FX Artists.

3. Shutterstock

Another amazing place to find video references. Absolutely anything and everything can be found here. Not just video references, images too. Now that Shutterstock has acquired TurboSquid, you can also find 3D models. So much stuff in a single place.

4. Pinterest

Inspiration is sometimes found in things we aren't looking for. As a matter of fact, inspiration can be found in anything. Pinterest is a great place to find ideas and inspirations for your next artwork. With both images and videos, I find interest the best place when working on something along the lines of abstract art.

5. Other Artists and Movies

No. I don't mean plagiarism.

Several times we need to make an artwork for which real-life references are hard to find.

That's when we can glance through previous works of artists in movies

As long as you're not calling their work yours it's fine to draw inspiration from other artists and movie shots

So that was the list, I tried to keep it as brief as possible but if you want to check out the video I made on this, head over to my youtube channel where I discussed more pros and cons of these websites in detail.

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Until next time, Keep learning, Keep growing!