Kritteka Gregory
Visual Effects Producer, WeFX, Vancouver, Canada
Master of Art and Design
Bachelor of Design in Digital Design
Being paid to work on films and visual effects is a dream come true for AUT digital design alumna Kritteka Gregory who is now based in Canada and has worked on some of the world’s biggest movies and TV shows.
“Seeing my name in the credits for Black Panther, Spider Man and Star Wars was a big moment. It was surreal to have that dream come true!
“One of the first shows I produced was the Disney show The Quest, and the creative team and production team collaborated particularly well on this show. I personally also loved Netflix show Queen of the South, so being able to work on it was so much fun. Yes, it did ruin the storyline for me, but I've become numb to spoilers. Avengers: End Game is also always at the top of the list, given that this was Marvel and Avengers. It was an amazing experience to work on.”
She says she has always been fascinated by visual effects.
“I love working at the crossroads of creativity and technology. I've noticed over time that the ideas we first begin with often vary from the end product, and the process of getting there isn’t something we can entirely plan for. There’s a sense of accomplishment seeing your completed work on TV or the big screen, and knowing how that became what it is.”
But her film and TV work isn’t the only thing keeping Kritteka busy; she is also finding the time to paint, and her Art by Krit artworks can be found in Vancouver, New Zealand and even in the Caribbean.
A launchpad for digital design careers
Studying digital design was the perfect preparation for her work now, Kritteka says.
“AUT’s digital design degree was a great way to gain insights into all aspects of digital design – from pre-production through to production and post-production. It makes it easy to figure out what you want to do with your career.”
Having access to industry-standard technology throughout her studies was invaluable, she adds.
“At AUT I had access to state-of-the-art facilities and technologies, including motion capture and a green screen room. I developed skills in Adobe After Effects, Photoshop, Premiere and 3D software, which was extremely helpful when I started working in the film industry.”
Advice for other students
Kritteka – who completed her Bachelor of Design in 2010, followed by her master’s degree in 2014 – has some great advice for other students.
“My advice is keep networking and keep applying – you never know when someone you meet can help you years later.”
If you’re planning to work overseas, postgraduate study is a must, she adds.
“Many overseas companies ask for four years of study when hiring a digital designer. It’s one of the reasons why I decided to continue into postgraduate study when I finished my Bachelor of Design. I’m glad I did – it gives you extra experience and allows you to refine your skills, which is great when you go out into the industry.”
