Empowering Collaboration: Jen Sorensen's Journey in VFX Production

Jen Sorensen, a senior creative producer at the Portland-based visual effects studio 9iFX, has made significant strides in the industry through a career defined by resilience, creativity, and a commitment to fostering empowering work environments. With a deep-rooted passion for the entertainment industry that began in childhood, Sorensen has navigated challenges, particularly those related to gender biases, to establish herself as a leading figure in VFX production.

Born in the Midwest, Sorensen’s childhood was steeped in the magic of classic cinema, inspired by Turner Classic Movies and her father's stories of legendary performers. Her journey into film production began unexpectedly when a family member invited her to a film set in Michigan. This opportunity ignited her passion, leading her to leave New York and embrace the fast-paced world of production. "I didn't hesitate! I chased down an interview and, within weeks, I'd packed up my life in New York and was plunging headfirst into the whirlwind of production," Sorensen explained.

Her early career involved various roles on set, from handling logistics to supporting the crew, which provided her with a comprehensive understanding of the production process. This hands-on experience proved invaluable when she transitioned into post-production, a move sparked by a friend's suggestion to explore a position in a 3D conversion company. "I had toyed with rotoscoping in my spare time, but never took the plunge. Then, out of the blue, she asked if I had interest interviewing for a night crew roto position. My heart pounded as I nervously said yes, and against all odds, I landed the gig!" Sorensen recalled.

Transitioning to post-production was initially challenging as she adapted to a new work environment. Yet, under the mentorship of Emily Francione, a recognized expert in rotoscoping, Sorensen honed her skills and expanded her expertise into other VFX disciplines, including paint and compositing. Her ascent in the industry, however, was not without obstacles. Sorensen faced gender-based discrimination early on, with individuals questioning her place in production roles. "I was told that women didn’t belong in production positions, both on set and in post-production. I was told to quit before I got too deep into a career that wouldn’t amount to anything successful," she shared. Instead of succumbing to these challenges, Sorensen used them as motivation to advocate for women in the industry, striving to create supportive and empowering environments for her team.

At 9iFX, a studio recognized for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, Sorensen has taken on the role of senior creative producer with a focus on meticulous organization and team empowerment. "I make it my mission to create a space where artists are genuinely excited about the project as a whole and the amazing work ahead, while also knowing that their time and wellbeing is valued and always taken into consideration," she stated. Her approach emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, incorporating flexible schedules and prioritizing team morale during project planning.

In her four years at 9iFX, Sorensen has led her team through complex projects, including a recent endeavor that required scaling the team by 300% to manage over 800 deliverables within five months. This experience not only tested her organizational and communication skills but also reinforced her belief in the collective strength of her team. "It was a powerful reminder of what I'm capable of, not just as a producer, but as a person and a member of the 9iFX team," she remarked.

Sorensen is also keenly aware of the evolving landscape of the VFX industry, particularly with the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). "The buzz around AI is undeniable. Our focus is on harnessing AI's potential to empower our artists while understanding its boundaries. It's an exciting journey of discovery, and we're eager to see where it takes us!" she emphasized.

Looking ahead, Sorensen and the 9iFX team are committed to expanding their capabilities and enhancing their production pipeline. With plans to grow their team and invest in advanced technology, they aim to elevate the quality of their work and continue pushing the boundaries of visual effects in entertainment. "We’re planning to take the studio to a new level in 2025, unleashing the full potential of a new high-performance render farm and meticulously crafting an even more robust pipeline that amplifies the incredible skill sets our team brings to the table," Sorensen concluded.

Through her journey, Jen Sorensen exemplifies the power of resilience and collaboration in the VFX industry, paving the way for future generations of creative professionals and reinforcing the importance of inclusive, supportive work environments.