AMANDA HEPPNER
About Myself
With over a decade in the film industry, I’ve worked on projects like The Mandalorian, Halo, Star Trek: Discovery, and The Fall of the House of Usher. My focus is on pushing the boundaries of visual effects through stunning, realistic characters and creatures, as well as lookdev techniques.
My greatest fulfillment comes from nurturing the next generation of artists. As the Program Liaison for 3D Modeling and Visual Effects at Humber College, I am responsible for curriculum development and application policies. I also teach Texturing as well as Portfolio & Career Connections classes.
In addition to my teaching role, I serve as a Character/Creature and Look Development Lead, bringing industry insights directly into the classroom, and currently serve as Vice Chair for the Visual Effects Society in the Toronto sector.
If you’re interested in enhancing your program with engaging guest speaking or workshop sessions, I’d love to connect!
More to Watch
Check out more interviews, demo reels and content here!
Before and Afters Magazine
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SHSM Workshops & Reach Ahead Experiences
I’m excited to announce that I now offer SHSM Certifications in Portfolio Development and Reach Ahead Experiences for the Arts & Culture Sector.
Join me for an exciting journey into the world of visual effects, where your artistic talent can shine!
In intimate workshops, I’ll mentor you on transforming your art skills into a standout VFX portfolio that meets industry expectations.
As a guest speaker, I’ll share captivating behind-the-scenes stories and insights and explore how visual effects come to life, highlighting the exciting career paths in the film industry. Discover how your passion for art can lead to extraordinary opportunities in visual effects!
What is SHSM?
The Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) is a specialized high school program that allows students to earn their Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) and focus their learning on a specific economic sector at the same time.
Students develop skills for their future careers, graduate high school with industry certifications and training and earn an SHSM seal on their high school diploma.
Read More: https://www.ontario.ca/page/specialist-high-skills-major
What is a Reach Ahead Experience?
Students pursuing an SHSM must have opportunities for reach ahead experiences connected with their postsecondary plans.
These experiences enable Grade 11 and 12 students to gain confidence in their ability to be successful, refine skills and work habits, and make informed choices about future careers and next steps.
Reach ahead opportunities could include:
interviewing an employee in the field of work the SHSM student is considering;
visiting an approved apprenticeship training delivery agent to investigate a program of interest to the SHSM student;
interviewing a college or university student enrolled in a program of interest to the SHSM student;
attending a number of college or university classes in the student's area of interest;
attending a conference or workshop held by the sector
Read More: https://www.ontario.ca/page/specialist-high-skills-major
SHSM
Highlighting You: Personalized Portfolio Workshop - In-Person
Contact for Pricing - 20 Student Maximum
2.5 hour workshop
An interactive VFX portfolio workshop, where aspiring artists can bring their portfolios for personalized feedback. Showcase your work in a supportive environment, gain valuable industry insights, and learn how to enhance your portfolio for college applications and future career opportunities in visual effects.
SHSM
Highlighting You: Personalized Portfolio Workshop - Virtual
Contact for Pricing - 10 Students Maximum
1.5 hour workshop
An intimate virtual workshop where artists can receive feedback on their portfolios. With a limited class size, you'll get tailored insights on your work, from concept art to finished pieces. Gain valuable industry perspective to enhance your portfolio for college applications supportive online environment.
Reach Ahead
Beyond the Screen: Exploring VFX Careers!
Contact for Pricing
1 hour Guest Speaker/Interview
Join me for an engaging discussion on how visual effects blend art and technology. Learn about the various career opportunities that allow you to innovate and create in the ever-evolving media landscape
I’m dedicated to helping students elevate their portfolios and boost their confidence. During my school visits, I engage with their work enthusiastically, offering practical tips to create standout portfolios that impress college admissions.
I understand the emotional side of being an artist—the doubts and creative blocks. I’ve been there, and I know how crucial it is to navigate those feelings.
Through constructive feedback, I aim to inspire self-belief and resilience. Together, we’ll transform those portfolios into impressive showcases of talent ready to shine in the VFX, games, and animation industry.
Let’s make your artistic aspirations a reality!
Schedule an Introduction
What is VFX?
Visual Effects, commonly referred to as VFX, is the art and science of creating imagery that enhances or alters reality in film, television, and video games. It encompasses a wide range of techniques used to combine live-action footage with computer-generated elements, allowing filmmakers to bring fantastical worlds and impossible scenarios to life. From breathtaking landscapes to mythical creatures, VFX enables storytellers to push the boundaries of imagination and create visually stunning experiences that captivate audiences.
At its core, VFX involves manipulating images during post-production to produce effects that are either too dangerous, expensive, or impractical to capture on set. This includes everything from subtle enhancements like adding atmospheric elements to grand spectacles such as explosions or entire digital environments. With advancements in technology and software, VFX has become an essential tool in modern filmmaking, transforming how stories are told and experienced on screen.
