Keon Chan
Mocap Animator, miHoYo, Shanghai, China
Bachelor of Design Te Tohu Paetahi mō te Hoahoa in Animation, Visual Effects and Game Design with minors in Extended Reality and Motion Capture
Accessing high-end facilities like the motion capture studio, virtual production room and photogrammetry setup was invaluable, says Keon Chan who studied animation, visual effects and game design.
“Animation technology moves fast, so I needed a university that keeps pace. I was drawn to AUT by the up-to-date curriculum and industry-standard equipment, like the mocap studio, which gives us hands-on experience with real-world studio workflows. As an independent 3D artist, these resources are usually out of reach. Hands-on experience with studio-grade tech helped me build high-level technical skills early and gave me a clear understanding of modern production pipelines.”
While he thoroughly enjoyed his studies, his final-year project was a clear highlight for him.
“Taking full ownership of my final project meant learning every stage of the production pipeline, from concept to delivery. Working solo forced me to sharpen my problem-solving skills and troubleshoot challenges on the fly, giving me complete confidence as I step into the industry. I was also proud when my project was selected as a finalist at the Designers Institute of New Zealand Best Awards.”
Supported to thrive
For Keon, there were a few staff members who had a particular impact on his time at AUT.
“Blair Yate was amazing in the mocap studio, helping me film performance capture and sharing deep tech and software insights. Emily Ramsay provided constant care, emotional support and inspiring creative ideas throughout my entire journey at AUT. She also helped me apply for the Best Awards. Dr Jason Kennedy grounded my understanding of core animation fundamentals and acting performance, and Marco Staines was always on hand with technical support and great feedback to refine my project.”
He has some great advice for other students interested in studying animation.
“Make full use of the studio facilities, ask your lecturers when you hit a wall and take full ownership of your work – the confidence you gain will set you up well for the industry.”
A career in mocap animation
After graduating from AUT at the end of 2025, Keon now lives in Shanghai where he works as a mocap animator for Chinese video game developer and publisher miHoYo.
“I love the balance between physical performance and technical precision. Mocap animator work lets you bridge the gap between human emotion and digital art – capturing subtle actor nuances and refining them in 3D.”
He says his studies at AUT prepared him well for the realities of running an entire production pipeline single-handedly.
“I expected to build technical skills through my degree but I didn't anticipate how much I would learn about self-management, troubleshooting under pressure and trusting my own problem-solving when hitting technical roadblocks.”
