3-Dimensional: Getting Started as a 3-D Artist

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Digital Art

Overview

3-D (three dimensions or three-dimensional) art refers to an object/figure in an environment, as well as the seemingly real appearance of a form that is drawn and/or painted to create a sense of real-life illusion within a 2-Dimensional (2-D) space.

CachorroMariachi by Catetas

There are three-phases in the creation process of 3-D artwork: tessellation , geometry , and rendering. First, models are created of individual objects using linked points that are made into a number of individual polygons. The second phase is when the polygons are transformed and lighting effects are applied. In the final phase, the transformed images are rendered into objects with very fine detail.

Lomo Owl by carlsonwkk

Getting Started

Getting started into 3-Dimensional art is the same as getting started with any medium; you have to start learning it. There are no shortcuts or tricks to becoming a 3-D artist. If you want to create using 3-D you will need to obtain 3-D software and use resources such as tutorials, guides, and books to begin the journey of becoming a 3-D artist.

Now, there is one thing you need to know before you jump off into the deep end of the pool looking at 3-D software, which is some of them are very expensive. Seriously, some of the more popular options are comparable to buying a used car or a monthly car payment. However, if you're like me and would prefer not to cringe when obtaining software there are free alternatives available! Finding the software that you are comfortable with (or can afford) does require some effort, but it is worth it when you consider that you are investing in yourself. To help get you acquainted with what is available I have put together a list of software to check out. Please note, the list below is only a small percentage of the software on the market:

  • 3D Studio MAX aka 3DS Max
  • Maya
  • Google SketchUp (free unless you want Pro)
  • 3DCrafter
  • Blender (free)
  • Sculptris (free)
  • ZBrush
  • Rhino3D
  • Daz3D (free)
  • Cinema 4D
  • Poser
  • Lightwave 3D
Note Feel free to suggest your favorite 3-D software to others by commenting on this journal.

Fighting Robots by AhmadTurk

The Professional World of 3-D 

The 3-D field is similar to the 2-D field in that there are endless possibilities of different types of jobs within various industries. For instance, I know 3-D artists who work within the Oil Industry designing 3-D models of chemical plants. I also have friends who work within the gaming industry, film industry, automotive industry, and even a friend who works specifically with printing 3-D models. So, if you are just getting into 3-D think ahead about the type of career you'd like and how you want to utilize your 3-D skills. Determining your career path early allows you to focus your time and energy on what skills and requirements you'll need to obtain the job you desire. It is never too early to make goals surrounding your future and work towards them overtime. 

Networking

Another thing to begin doing early on is networking with others both within the 3-D/art fields and with other people period. I cannot count how many times I see/hear artists complaining that they are unable to find work or how no one notices their work. This is when networking is crucial for your success. The more people who know you means your chances of being seen, recommended, and hired increases with each person.

Portfolio

I highly recommend putting together a portfolio that you regularly update for other people to see your art. It helps them get to know what you are capable of and what your strengths are by simply seeing your work. Think of your portfolio as if it is your first impression with a client. Taking into consideration what you would want potential clients to see/think and not see/think (you know the work you made that you consider cringe-worthy now) will help you build a more professional portfolio.

Freelancing

This is especially important if you are trying to live off freelancing alone. Honestly, I do not recommend trying to live off freelancing alone until you have been doing it for awhile. I see so many artists who think being a freelancer is the dream. Now, don't get me wrong, it definitely is pretty sweet to work from home doing what you love. However, do not put yourself in a financial bind by jumping the gun and quitting your day job only to find out you cannot pay your rent. It is not cool or fun to stress over not having enough money for food and shelter so please take your time. 

The above advice can be applied to any artist or creative field so whether you go the route of 3-D or end up sticking with 2-D later on remember to network, maintain your portfolio, and be smart about your future. I hope that you found this quick start into 3-Dimensional art informative! Also, if you have any questions feel free to comment below or note me. :heart:

Mystery by Tomstrzal
Sewer Dwelling Monster by loden
SlowMo by elreviae


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SamuraiReflection's avatar
havnt read it yet but let me say thank you anyway :D I'm using poser 10 :D!