Hi, I’m Mo Abghari — an FX Artist based in Toronto with a unique creative path that bridges photography, film, and visual effects. I specialize in procedural FX simulation using Houdini, with a strong focus on Pyro, FLIP, RBD, and particle systems, supported by a decade of hands-on experience in image-making and cinematic storytelling.
My journey started behind the lens. After earning a Bachelor of Arts in Photography, I spent over ten years working as a professional photographer and photo editor, building a boutique studio and completing over 1,000 editorial and commercial shoots. These years honed my eye for composition, colour, and lighting skills that now form the backbone of my FX work.
Driven by a passion for visual storytelling, I later pursued a Diploma in Film Production and eventually specialized in visual effects. I’m currently completing a VFX diploma at Vancouver Film School, where I co-directed and served as FX Artist and Look Development lead for the graduation film Final Horizon. My work included:
Procedural destruction FX using VEX-driven constraint networks
Pyro and atmospheric simulations with embedded lighting for realistic compositing
FLIP and ocean simulations with layered whitewater and bubbles
Shader authoring, lighting in Solaris/Karma, and final compositing in Nuke
I also have training in modelling, shading, and texturing from Think Tank Training Centre, giving me a solid understanding of the asset-creation pipeline. I’m comfortable working across departments and enjoy bringing a collaborative spirit to every project.
I’m passionate about combining technical problem-solving with cinematic artistry—whether crafting the perfect dust plume in a destruction shot or tuning the flicker of light in a volumetric sim. I aim to contribute meaningfully to stories through visually stunning, emotionally resonant FX work.
Let’s connect and create something extraordinary.