Coming back to 3D. Is it really for me?
Few years ago, I discovered 3D and started learning it. I studied for 2 months and made some simple 3D models (I am self-taught). After that I got a full time job that is not related to 3D. At first, I still make models whenever I get home from work making it my hobby. But then I got busy and I wasn’t able to make anything.
Now, I would like to start to learn 3D again and if possible make it a career. (I am thinking of becoming an environment or props artist). But the thing is, I live in a place where there is less job opportunity related to 3D. Also, time and money is a factor, I am not getting any younger and I need to pay the bills.
Right now I am back to square one. Refreshing my knowledge in 3D and learning new things. I am currently learning how to sculpt in Zbrush.
My questions are:
If you were me, what would you do? How would you deal with the situation?
If I commit myself in studying and making my portfolio, how long do you think it would take to become employable?
Should I do it or keep it as my hobby?
BTW, this is my first post (yay!). I hope you can share some
of your insights and experiences to help me decide on what to do. Thanks!
Replies
https://polycount.com/discussion/208365/how-to-know-whether-you-really-enjoy-doing-it-or-if-you-are-just-forcing-yourself-to-do-3d#latest
ZBrush is a good start, but for environment/prop art you will probably want to learn Maya or 3DS Max as hard surface modeling, at least in my opinion, is much more functional in those softwares. I mostly use ZBrush to add further refinement and detail to my high-poly meshes, and do everything else in good ole Maya. Up to you, though!
Give it a strong go, don't give up. Try to set a certain amount of time aside every day to jump in and model something. If after a while you still love it enough and you can envision your future self being happy doing it as a living, then keep going. It is a long, tedious process, and you do have to make sacrifices, but if you believe you can find happiness when all is said and done, then you will find a way to work through it. It will be overwhelming at numerous different times, but don't let that be a roadblock. We all face it.
As far as places to learn/hone your skills, I'll toss out a few names:
Mike Hermes on Youtube (Maya)
Gave Dev Academy on Youtube (Maya/Unreal)
Flipped Normals on Youtube (Mostly ZBrush, some Maya stuff and other general advice regarding the 3D world which is helpful to any aspiring artist)
Michael Pavlovich on Youtube (The ZBrush master!)
Blender Guru on Youtube(I watch for all the helpful interviews he does with other artists in the industry. Gives a lot of good insight)
Udemy.com (Tutorials that cost money, but they often go on sale and are super helpful and amazing!)
I don't know what your texturing background is, but I would strongly advise looking into Substance Painter. Once you get over the learning curve, it's a lot of fun, and makes texturing life a breeze. I do believe they still offer a 45-day(?) trial.
Interact with the community here. Look at other people's art on ArtStation and interact with them. Get involved. And try to have fun!
Also, as a way to stay inspired/committed, r/Daily3D on Reddit is a great place for beginners. They have daily user-suggested art challenges that are simple and fun and a great way to hone your skills.
Good luck!
Currently the barrier of entry to learn is low which is great, teaching material is an abundance and we have plenty of viable software options.
On the flip side, the barrier of entry to get a job in the industry is generally high, perhaps due to competition.
Looking at your work, it seems you have solid modelling skills and an eye for scale/proportions which is great.
I say just keep at it and have fun with learning, if after a while you still have the buzz and you feel like a switch in your head has been activated to make it into a career then that would be the time to think seriously.