I got into Santa Monica at around 2pm yesterday, and was shocked to discover that the weather was actually quite nice! You need to keep in mind that I’m from the northern tundra, and I’m actually quite used to cold temperatures. I like my sweaters, and do not like summer. Yesterday was a nice temperature though, not too cold to require a coat, and not to hot to forbid a longsleeve shirt. Just about right. Mind you the locals seemed to think I was foolish for only wearing a single thin, long sleeve shirt. Oddly enough, I didn’t think to grab any photos yesterday, and so still need to get some shots while I’m here. The location you see to the left is the hotel I’m in at the moment. A rather nice place that makes me *think* California. A palm tree stares at me through the window.
I met up with David Schoneveld for lunch when I got it. Dave helped me start learning vfx a few years back after I’d started asking some questions on Highend3d.com. It was good to finally meet up in person. I also had dinner in the evening with Graham Thompson who I’ve previously worked with at Side Effects.
Today I got to see the local SESI office, which is shaping up to be pretty nice! They’re still in the process of moving in and fixing it up, but what is, is nice. I basically spent the day fussing over files for my class on Saturday, and the handout for my secret customer classes the next three days. I had some greasy, disgusting pizza foah lunch, and some very nice gnocchi for dinner. Aliza from the local office was kind enough to take me to a local italian place.
Tonight was a decent warm up for the next few days, and I was able to show off the effect that was used in The Hamster Attack! to HOUPLA. Speaking of which, we’re going to meet up again (more casually) on Thursday! If you’re in LA, and you use Houdini… come on down!