Visual effects, now taught to machines.
I spent two decades supervising visual effects on feature films. Today I turn neural-rendering research into dependable tools that help filmmakers tell their stories.
I spent two decades supervising visual effects on feature films. Today I turn neural-rendering research into dependable tools that help filmmakers tell their stories.
About
I love making beautiful images, and building tools so other filmmakers can do the same. I built my career supervising visual effects for feature films: compositor, then 2D supervisor, then VFX supervisor, leading teams and building departments along the way.
In 2018 I turned to machine learning in earnest: taking neural-rendering ideas and turning them into production workflows that teams can rely on. At Flawless AI I work with leadership across research, product and engineering, shaping technical and creative direction and translating researchers' methods into products used on dozens of films. I'm a named inventor on two granted US patents for modifying objects in film.
I'm a filmmaker too: a screenwriting MA, an optioned feature, and shorts broadcast on Channel 4 and ITV. That's the thread through all of it: camera, lighting and colour science on one side, and on the other, how AI can genuinely assist the people telling the story.
Selected work
I've worked on over 60 feature films. Scroll sideways through the selection below or see the full list on IMDb.
Areas of expertise
On-set and in post: element shoots, motion control, blue-screen and crowd work. I've led teams of 20+ and built 2D departments from scratch (Method Studios; Deputy Head of 2D at Framestore).
I architect and train PyTorch and TensorFlow models for de-aging, de-noising, rotoscoping and beauty work, and fold new generative models and APIs into production pipelines. I'm a named co-inventor on two US patents for Modification of objects in film.
At Flawless AI I helped turn neural-rendering research into professional products (TrueSync, DeepEditor), which won the Lumiere Award for Assistive AI and the HPA Award for Innovation in Post-Production.
Deep Nuke and node-based compositing, OpenEXR and OCIO colour pipelines. I build the tools rather than just use them.
I give creative feedback on early cuts, advising where AI can assist across character, story, design and effects, grounded in two decades on real productions.
I love finding techniques and sharing them: documentation, internal demos, public talks, and teaching the professional compositing course at Escape Studios.
Recommendations
“One of the most talented and enjoyable people I've worked with. Sean combines an enquiring mind and strong technical knowledge with genuine creativity, and the practical ability to turn innovative ideas into reality: clearly visible in real movie productions. Modest and self-deprecating, which only makes working with him a joy.”
“Sean helped us explore and evaluate voice cloning through neural networks during the sound design of a feature film. He came up with actual solutions and code that were super interesting and helpful. Amazing to work with, and he did a stellar job, not hesitating to go the extra mile.”
“Sean is a pleasure to work with. He always finds time for my endless questions and has a great eye whenever I need a second opinion. His passion for pushing the boundaries of VFX and his depth of knowledge make him a truly valuable asset.”
“Sean is the glue that keeps the compositing team together. He creates a brilliant atmosphere, is always there if anyone needs advice, and isn't afraid to get his hands dirty on some crazy shots. I wouldn't hesitate to work with Sean in the future.”
“As VFX Supervisor, Sean is skilled, eloquent and to the point. His experience shines through in well thought-out solutions. I worked with Sean on feature film VFX at Framestore and on the Champions League rebrand, and I'd happily work with him again.”
“Sean is enthusiastic, extremely knowledgeable and always positive. He keeps a class engaged through humour, diligence and patience, and his teaching style is clear and concise. I couldn't recommend Sean highly enough as a tutor.”
Get in touch
Available for VFX supervision, machine-learning pipelines, and turning research into production tools.