Mark Reisch

I am currently a 3D Animation Lecturer in the School of Film & Animation (SOFA).

Courses taught:

UNDERGRAD

SOFA 215 - 01 3D Animation I

This course is an introduction to three dimensional computer animation and character rigging. The basic principles of animation will be addressed in relation to threedimensional animation. Character rigging techniques will be presented and will include skeletons and animation controls. Students will produce a series of short threedimensional computer animations and some basic character rigs. Students will become familiar with a variety of three dimensional computer animation techniques.

SOFA 216 - 01 3D Animation II
This is the second in a sequence of three dimensional animation courses. Students will be exposed to the mechanics of motion within a character. Complete character rigging techniques will be discussed and demonstrated. Students will produce a series of short three-dimensional computer animations using a pre-rigged character. Students will also create a complete character model and rig of their own design. Students will gain further knowledge of a variety of three-dimensional computer animation techniques

SOFA 509 - 01 Advanced Object and Character Creation

This course will continue the exciting journey into modeling. Students will learn economy of geometry for animation. Instruction will go further into organic modeling by studying anatomy and relating it to edge loops. Students will be introduced to sculpting digital models.

SOFA 531 - 01 Digital Effects & Compositing

This course offers hands-on experience in manipulating live action video and applying digital effects. There is an emphasis on digital compositing using rotoscoping, image tracking, alpha channels and transparency. Composites may be accomplished through green screen shooting, transfer modes, masks, and/or traveling mattes. Node based compositing will also be addressed as well. (SOFA-122 Fundamentals of Computers and Imaging Technology) Class 2, Lab 3, Credit 3 (F)

SOFA 306 - 01 Senior Thesis Seminar

A required course for third-year SOFA students and the prerequisite for SOFA-401 Senior Thesis I. Students discuss and generate a written plan for their senior film or animation thesis projects, select an adviser from among the SOFA faculty, and present a proposal for approval to a faculty committee

SOFA 408 - 01 Senior Forum

This course is intended to best accompany and complement the student's Senior Thesis experience. All students in this course meet as a group to screen edited works in progress, discuss post-production problems, and plan jointly for the use of departmental production resources.

SOFA 406 - 17 Senior Thesis I

Students work independently with their advisor towards completion of their capstone experience for their BFA degree. Students have a predetermined timeline and must complete all deadlines to pass this course.

SOFA 407 - 15 Senior Thesis II

Students work independently with their advisor towards completion of their capstone experience for their BFA degree. Students have a predetermined timeline and must complete all deadlines of that timeline to pass this thesis course including completion and public screening of finished work or final presentation of craft experience.

SOFA 590 - 01 Los Angeles Behind the Scenes

An exploration of both the entertainment industry, through its interconnected parts, and the sprawling city of Los Angeles. Students begin and end at RIT and, in between, travel to Los Angeles for a behind-the-scenes look focused on either film or animation.

GRADUATE

SOFA 620 - 01 3D Modeling Mastery

This is an advanced three-dimensional modeling course. Students will refine their knowledge and skill in creating objects and characters in 3D space. Students will build on their previous modeling knowledge to create more artistic creations. Modeling concepts such as edge loop placement for proper animation deformation will be emphasized. Students will be introduced to the concept and use of digital sculpting.

SOFA 644 - 01 Cinematic Compositing

Students will learn digital compositing using rotoscoping, image tracking, alpha channels and transparency. Composites may be accomplished through green screen shooting, transfer modes, masks, and/or traveling mattes. Students will shoot their own footage to combine with their effects to create the final image. Node based compositing will be addressed as well.

INSTITUTE SERVICE

2014 ANI-JAM 24 HR ANIMATION COMPETITION

Students are in groups of two to four students animating a story based off a given theme. The contestants do not have any knowledge of the topic that will be given before hand. The students will have to create a story and animate to that theme within 24hrs. I was able to raise $8,927 in food and prize donations for students.

INTERNSHIP SPECTACULAR

I plan, organize, and host the annual Internship Spectacular. For this event I coordinate with the Career Planning Center and supervise eleven students to create a fun, educational, and informative evening. Students speak about their summer internship experiences at places like Gravity, The Third Floor, Cantina Creative, Chiodo Bros, Doodle Pictures Studios, Blizzard, Verve Talent and Literacy Agency.

AWARDS

2013 - Student Government Extra Mile Award for Outstanding & Attentive Service to Students

2012 - Irene Pfizenmaier Award for Academic Excellence in Teaching