Portland, OR
conor.read.collins@gmail.com
LinkedIn

CORE COMPETENCIES

• Generative AI Implementation & Research - ComfyUI specialist with production expertise

• 3D Production & Pipeline Development - Deep understanding of end-to-end workflows

• Technical Art Direction & Visual Problem-Solving - Cross-disciplinary approach

• High End Retouching – 10+ years in photography and post production

• Procedural Content Generation - Creating reusable automation systems

• Workflow Optimization - Building efficient processes and pipelines

• Innovative Prototype Development - Rapidly creating MVPs and proof-of-concepts

TECHNICAL SKILLS

Software: Photoshop, Houdini, ComfyUI, Nuke, Unreal Engine, Maya, Python

Specialties: High-End Retouching, 3D Production, Generative Image/Video, Motion Design

Domains: Post-Production, Synthetic Data, Visual Effects, Digital Humans, Marketing Content

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY

Innovative Technical Artist with 15+ years of experience bridging creative vision and technical implementation across High-end Retouching, 3D production, generative AI, and visual problem solving. Expertise in developing AI-powered tools, cloud-optimized workflows, and scalable automation systems. Proven ability to translate research into practical applications and lead technical initiatives in fast-paced environments.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Marketing and Technical Artist

Synthesis AI | Portland, OR | Sep 2022 – Mar 2025

• Architected and implemented modular production pipelines in Houdini, Nuke, and ComfyUI optimized for cloud deployment, presented automation techniques at Houdini HIVE conference

• Developed procedural and generative AI tools that created millions of unique reusable assets, driving product innovation and market differentiation

• Collaborated extensively with machine learning teams to develop AI-enhanced tools and automated workflows for asset creation

• Evolved from traditional 3D artist role to full-fledged Technical Artist, advancing capabilities in

VFX, development, and product design

• Created marketing materials and technical demonstrations showcasing AI capabilities and innovations

• Championed strategic technology adoption initiatives for emerging AI tools and research areas

Lead Retoucher and Owner Operator

Outer Gamut | Portland, OR | 2014 - 2022

• Built and maintained a successful retouching studio adapting to evolving technology

• Designed and implemented custom client-specific workflows to increase efficiency by 40%

• Managed teams of freelance artists to deliver projects for major clients including UGG, Uber, Liberty Mutual, Amazon, and Apple

• Executed hands-on retouching, CG, and compositing work while overseeing all aspects of

production

• Developed and maintained long-term client relationships through consistent communication and quality deliverables

Retoucher

Portus Imaging | Los Angeles, CA | 2013 - 2014

• Produced high-quality retouching work for multinational advertising campaigns

• Composed complex composite images while ensuring color consistency across diverse deliverables

• Established collaboration conventions and file management systems for improved team efficiency

• Provided creative technical solutions for complex imaging challenges and production workflows

Freelance Artist

San Francisco - Los Angeles, CA | 2004 - 2013

• Delivered professional services as retoucher, photographer, and motion designer

• Developed versatile technical and creative skills across multiple visual disciplines

EDUCATION

BFA Photography, California College of Arts and Crafts, 2004

• Graduated with Honors