Beyond the Screen: David Mateo González on Building Emotion in Digital Video

From the very beginning of my journey in visual effects, I have never seen this craft as merely a technical discipline—I have always experienced it as an extension of human emotion. Every frame, every particle, every shadow and beam of light is, to me, a heartbeat.

Submitting my work to the Vega Digital Awards was not simply an artistic decision; it was a deeply personal one. After years working on productions such as The Witcher, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Vikings, I realized that what truly moves audiences is not spectacle alone, but the stories we tell through the invisible magic of visual effects. It was that realization—the understanding that visual effects are not the background, but the emotional language of modern storytelling—that inspired me to take this step.

But beyond the global stage, beyond the prestige of submitting to one of the world's most respected award competitions, this moment carries a profound personal meaning. Behind every hour I spent refining shots, behind every late night pushing renders until dawn, there was a silent presence: my mother. She has always been the greatest inspiration in my life—the person who taught me that dreams are not achieved through desire alone, but through unwavering commitment, effort, sacrifice, and heart.

As I cared for her while watching her fight Alzheimer’s, I realized something that changed me forever: that art becomes meaningful when it carries the soul of the one who creates it. This submission was my way of honoring her—of turning every challenge into a tribute to the woman who taught me to persist, even when the world felt heavy.

Winning this award is not simply a professional milestone—it is an emotional confirmation that all the sacrifices, sleepless nights, and personal battles had a purpose. Professionally, it places me among the visionaries shaping the future of visual effects on a global stage. It validates years of dedication, elevates my voice within the industry, and opens doors to new collaborations at the highest level.

Personally, this moment is more than recognition. It is a message to my younger self—to the boy who once dreamed of creating worlds from nothing—that dreams do come true when you pursue them with heart, integrity, and resilience. And above all, it is a message to my mother: that every lesson she gave me now lives eternally in the light of this achievement. Winning is not the end of a journey, but the beginning of a new one—one shaped not only by ambition, but by gratitude, love, and an unbreakable belief in the power of storytelling.

Success, in my journey, has never been a destination—it has always been a process, a living story of struggle, resilience, and relentless curiosity. The work I submitted to the Vega Digital Awards grew from countless nights of introspection, experimentation, and the pursuit of emotional truth in visual storytelling.

Early in my career, working on productions such as The Witcher, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and Vikings, I realized that mastery of technique alone is not enough to leave a mark. The true power of visual effects lies in its ability to convey the human experience, to touch hearts, and to amplify the narratives that define our lives. Every frame I crafted was inspired by this understanding: that art must resonate emotionally, even in a world dominated by technology.

From the initial conceptual sketches to the final compositing, every decision was driven by a desire to connect—to tell a story that felt alive and authentic. I experimented with light, movement, and color not only for aesthetic impact, but to evoke subtle emotional cues—moments of tension, wonder, and intimacy that draw viewers into the narrative.

Collaborating closely with my team encouraged an approach that valued creative intuition as much as technical precision, allowing ideas to flourish organically while maintaining a disciplined workflow. This balance of artistry and rigor—of heart and craft—created a piece that not only showcased skill, but communicated emotion with clarity and power.

In such a competitive environment, it is easy to get lost in complexity, to prioritize novelty over resonance. What made this work shine was its humanity—the quiet attention to detail, the thoughtful layering of story within each effect, and the willingness to embrace vulnerability as part of the creative process.

It is a reminder that in visual effects, as in life, the strongest impact comes from authenticity—from daring to weave personal experience, intention, and emotion into every frame. In this sense, the project became more than an entry; it became a reflection of my journey, my struggles, my triumphs, and my unwavering belief that art’s greatest power is its ability to touch hearts.

I believe what truly set my project apart was a combination of emotional truth, visual precision, and an obsession with storytelling. In a field where technology is constantly evolving and competition is fierce, I focused not only on technical excellence, but on creating an experience that felt alive, intentional, and human.

Several key elements shaped this:

1. A storytelling-first mindset.
Every frame, every effect, every transition was designed to communicate emotion—not just spectacle. I wanted viewers to feel something: tension, wonder, fragility, power. That emotional clarity guided every creative decision.

2. A pursuit of cinematic realism.
I blended advanced compositing techniques, photoreal visual layers, and subtle atmospheric details that grounded the scenes in reality. This balance between realism and fantasy created an immersive world that felt both magical and believable.

3. A commitment to refinement.
The project went through countless iterations. I approached each shot like a living organism—tuning the colors, enhancing the shadows, shaping the light until the scene breathed naturally. That level of dedication made the final piece resonate more deeply.

4. Strategic use of contrasts.
I worked intentionally with opposing forces: light and darkness, calm and chaos, elegance and brutality. These contrasts gave the visuals emotional weight and helped make them memorable.

5. A personal artistic signature.
In every project, I aim to leave a trace of who I am—my way of understanding motion, my sense of rhythm, my connection to narrative flow. I believe this personal imprint helped the work stand out in a sea of technically strong submissions.

Ultimately, what made the project shine was not a single element, but the fusion of artistry, precision, and emotional intent. It wasn’t just about impressing viewers visually—it was about transporting them into a story they could feel.

Every creative endeavor comes with its own invisible mountain, and for me, this project was no exception. There were moments when the technical demands felt overwhelming, when the complexity of rendering, compositing, and aligning every visual element threatened to eclipse the emotional vision I had set for the piece. At times, I questioned whether I could achieve the effect I imagined — whether the hours of relentless work would truly translate into something meaningful.

Yet these doubts became catalysts, not barriers. I leaned into the challenge, seeing each obstacle as an opportunity to learn, to innovate, and to push the boundaries of my own capabilities.

What made this journey particularly challenging was balancing my professional responsibilities with my personal life, especially while caring for my mother. There were nights when exhaustion whispered that it might be easier to give up, but the lessons she instilled in me — resilience, dedication, and the quiet courage to keep going even when the path is unclear — became my guiding light.

I discovered that the most significant breakthroughs often arise from the intersection of pressure and passion. By embracing collaboration, allowing experimentation, and giving myself permission to fail and start over, I turned each obstacle into a stepping stone — transforming potential frustration into creative growth and, ultimately, art — a work I could stand behind with pride.

Winning the Vega Digital Awards is more than a professional accolade; it is a profound affirmation of the journey I have undertaken, the struggles endured, and the values that have guided me along the way.

Professionally, it positions me among the visionaries shaping the future of visual effects, opening doors to collaborations and projects on an international scale that once might have seemed unattainable. But beyond personal recognition, this award is a celebration of the incredible teams I have worked with — the talented, devoted individuals whose creativity, patience, and dedication brought the vision to life. Every frame reflects not just my work, but the collective effort, passion, and brilliance of those who stood beside me.

Personally, this recognition carries the weight of my own story. It is a tangible representation that the relentless pursuit of a dream — through sacrifices, long nights, moments of doubt, and unwavering dedication — can culminate in something truly meaningful.

I have already begun to see new opportunities emerge: invitations to international collaborations, requests to mentor emerging artists, and the chance to influence projects that challenge the boundaries of what visual effects can achieve. Yet more than external milestones, this award reminds me of why I create — to honor my mother, to tell stories that matter, and to inspire others to trust that effort, heart, and authenticity will always resonate.

The response to the work has been deeply moving. Clients, collaborators, and audiences have expressed that the sequences convey not only technical excellence, but also a profound emotional depth — something rare in a world where visuals can sometimes feel detached from feeling.

One moment that stands out was a message from a young artist who shared that watching the piece inspired them to continue pursuing their dream in visual effects, despite uncertainty and fear. It was a reminder that our work, when infused with honesty and passion, reaches far beyond the screen.

Stakeholders noted that the project felt alive, as if every frame carried intention and soul. They recognized not just the skill, but the thoughtfulness behind every decision — the subtle interplay of light and emotion, the layers of storytelling embedded in every effect.

For me, the most meaningful feedback was that the work connected on a human level, validating years of effort and the countless moments of doubt I had overcome. It is in these reactions that I find both reassurance and inspiration: reassurance that authenticity resonates, and inspiration to continue creating with courage, heart, and unwavering devotion.

To those who are just beginning their journey, or those who feel uncertain about their place in a competitive industry, I would say this: success begins with authenticity. Awards and recognition are not the ultimate measure of talent — they are milestones along a path defined by persistence, courage, and the willingness to embrace vulnerability in your work. Every great project, every memorable creation, originates from a place of honesty — where your skills meet your emotions, where your experiences, fears, and dreams become the palette from which you craft your art.

In my own journey, there were countless moments when self-doubt threatened to hold me back. Yet it was precisely in those moments that growth occurred — through experimentation, failure, and an unwavering commitment to keep creating. I advise aspiring artists to focus less on perfection and more on purpose: let your work tell a story that only you can tell, one that carries your unique perspective, your voice, and your heart. Surround yourself with mentors, collaborators, and peers who challenge and inspire you. Dedicate yourself fully — not for the accolades, but for the joy of creating something that resonates. In doing so, you will naturally craft work that is not only compelling, but deserving of recognition.

The only strategy is to put passion, work, effort, and emotion into what you do. You must have enough strength to overcome moments of weakness — those times when you think you can’t. There will be difficult moments on this path; this is when you must be mentally and emotionally strong so your hopes and dreams can become reality.

The evolution of the creative industry is a living testament to human ingenuity. From breakthroughs in virtual production to the integration of AI-driven tools and real-time rendering, we are witnessing a revolution that expands the very boundaries of storytelling. Yet in this fast-paced environment, I see a profound responsibility: technology should never overshadow emotion, and innovation must be guided by narrative integrity.

Looking forward, I aspire to position myself at the intersection of creativity and innovation — where artistry and technology coexist to serve stories that move audiences, provoke thought, and inspire wonder. My goal is to continue exploring uncharted territories in visual effects while mentoring the next generation of artists, instilling in them the belief that emotional authenticity will always remain the most powerful tool. In a world of constant change, I want to be a creator who balances imagination with heart — pushing the craft forward while ensuring that every frame tells a story that resonates universally.

I understand that fear of judgment can be paralyzing, especially when your work feels raw, unfinished, or vulnerable. But I have learned that courage is not the absence of fear — it is acting despite it. Entering competitions is not just about winning; it is about learning, growing, and asserting your place in the creative world. Every submission is an opportunity to see your work through the eyes of others, to receive feedback, and to understand the impact your vision can have.

For those just starting out, I would say: trust yourself, embrace imperfection, and take the step to share your work. Each entry is a declaration that your voice matters, that your perspective is valuable, and that your dedication can resonate beyond your own expectations. Through every challenge, you build resilience; through every risk, you cultivate confidence. The moment you step forward and participate, you gain more than recognition — you gain experience, insight, and the affirmation that your creativity is worthy of being seen.

Innovation is not born in isolation — it is forged in the spaces where visions collide, where ideas cross paths, and where we dare to see beyond what already exists. To every digital thinker, creator, marketer, and industry professional, my message is this:

Stay human in a world driven by technology.

Our tools evolve every day, but the heart behind them must evolve with purpose. Let your curiosity guide you, let your courage unsettle you, and let your collaborations redefine what is possible. We are not just shaping pixels or algorithms — we are shaping experiences, emotions, and the stories people carry with them long after the screen fades to black.

Share knowledge freely. Celebrate each other's successes. And never underestimate the spark that appears when two minds from different worlds dare to create something together. That spark… that connection… is where true innovation lives.

So keep dreaming fearlessly, keep building relentlessly, and above all, stay connected — to your craft, to your team, and to the people your work will touch. Because in the end, our industry is not just about digital creation; it is about human impact. And that impact begins with us.

I dedicate this achievement to the most important person in my life — my mother,
Tere González Caballero.

She is not only my greatest inspiration, but the foundation of every dream I have ever dared to pursue. Even as she faces the challenges of Alzheimer’s, her spirit, strength, and unconditional love continue to guide me every single day. My mother always told me something that became the compass of my life:
“Dreams are not achieved by merely thinking about them — you must work, fight, sacrifice, and give everything you have. And if in the end you don’t reach your dream, you can still be at peace knowing you gave it your all.”

These words did not just inspire me — they shaped my entire journey. Whenever I faced doubt or exhaustion, I remembered that for her, effort was the purest expression of love. She taught me that dedication is a form of honesty, that perseverance is the true language of the soul.

Watching her confront her own challenges with strength and courage taught me that resilience is not defined by what we achieve, but by how we continue despite hardship. Her values became my way of facing life, her dreams became my path, and her voice became the driving force behind every frame I create.

This award is not just a recognition of my work — it is a tribute to her life, to her wisdom, and to the love that shaped me into the artist and person I am today. Every step I have taken has been a continuation of her legacy. Although there are moments when her memories fade, mine only grow stronger. I carry her with me in every success, every challenge, and every dream I pursue.

This award is not only a professional milestone — it is a promise to my mother that her voice will echo in every dream I will ever achieve.

It is a visual journey that turns private struggle and quiet devotion into light and motion — an emotional bridge that reminds us that VFX can give form to the things we most need to feel.

This sentence captures the essence of the piece: it is not spectacle for spectacle’s sake, but a deliberate translation of lived feeling into cinematic language. The work was conceived as a way to make inner life visible — those small, often invisible moments of care, resolve, and love — so that an audience can recognize something of themselves in the image. That is why, even in a single line, the piece must be presented as both a journey and a translation: it carries narrative weight, emotional truth, and technical craft in equal measure.

What’s next is both a continuation and an expansion of everything I’ve learned: I want to keep pushing the boundaries of how we tell human stories through new visual languages. In practical terms, I’m developing sequences for international streaming and cinematic projects that explore more intimate, character-driven moments using advanced VFX techniques — real-time elements, hybrid practical-digital workflows, and experimental compospositing approaches that allow emotion to lead the camera. I’m also committed to mentoring emerging talent: offering workshops, masterclasses, and one-to-one guidance so younger artists can learn not only technical skills, but how to root their work in lived experience.

Beyond projects, my goal is to create a small collaborative lab where artists, composers, and directors can prototype new narrative tools — methods that prioritize empathy and depth over mere novelty. I want to open doors for those who, like me, once had only a dream and a stubborn refusal to give up. Ultimately, I want my next chapter to be one of giving back: shaping work that moves people, and building a community where stories and people are honored equally.