From Drag Race to Outer Space: The Ambitious Adventures of NextNW Member 9iFX

9iFX visual effects studio co-founder and managing partner Tracey Miller may have visited 30 countries, but it’s her clients who have taken her on the biggest adventures. 

The studio’s work runs the gamut from sports and entertainment to food and apparel, transporting the team everywhere from the Drag Race catwalk to introduce the queens of Season 13, to the moon for a film showcasing Columbia Sportswear’s exciting foray into space exploration.

“No two projects, or problems, look the same, and that's exactly what keeps me energized about this business after 13+ years,” Tracey said.

If the Columbia and Intuitive Machines space campaign is any indication, the 9iFX team never shies away from a challenge. The studio’s animation, motion graphics, VFX, and 3D models have captivated audiences across social media and television, and even in-person at live events. “I love projects that let us push technical boundaries in service of a great story,” Tracey said. 

Untouchable in the face of AI

With a steady pipeline of ambitious projects and a reputation for delivering visual assets of the highest caliber, it’s no surprise that Tracey remains unfazed by the AI fearmongering sweeping the industry.

“AI can't deliver the precision, craft, and creative judgment a real studio brings to the table. What actually makes a project land is the art, the connection, and the people, both in front of the camera and behind it.”

She’s hopeful that the technology will soon be put in its rightful place as a tool for enhancement and efficiency rather than a replacement for artists. In a time when AI has made many creatives feel devalued, it’s refreshing to know that Portland is still a land of artistic opportunity.

If you’re hoping to get in on the action at 9iFX, Tracey offers some insider details on what makes someone an ideal fit for the studio team: “We look for people who leave their ego at the door. This industry moves fast, projects change direction, and the people who thrive on our roster are the ones who can adapt, collaborate, and stay focused on making the work great rather than being right.”

Global reach, strong local roots

Despite 9iFX’s impressive portfolio of global brands, Tracey remains very much invested in maintaining a local presence and sense of community. As a NextNW member, she enjoys the opportunities to collaborate and build camaraderie.

“There's so much talent and energy happening in this region, and we want to make sure people know about us, whether that's through community involvement, supporting other local creatives, or just showing up more in the conversation. Portland has always shaped who we are as a studio, and we want to give back to that scene as much as it's given to us,” Tracey shared.

Learn More

Visit 9iFX at 9ifx.net, connect with Tracey on LinkedIn, or follow the studio on Instagram to see their latest work and a few behind-the-scenes moments along the way.

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