Need advice - What kind of 3d props to aim for building a portfolio?

focus_method

Hi guys,
can u pls recommend what kind of props to aim when building a portfolio as a 3d props/environment artist?
What would  game companies/clients be interested to see the most ? or in other words - what  to avoid ?



note:I don't mean on characters or mechanical robots.


thanks in advance

ZacD

One of the most important things is being able to make a cohesive set of props with the same look and quality. Even better if you can assemble them into a set or small environment. It's not a good look if every prop on your portfolio looks like they are from a different game.

Props that show off different types of modeling skills and material surfaces. Having dozens of weapons is cool, but can you make furniture, props for set dressing, light fixtures, etc?

focus_method

do  you have any examples of other artists portfolios like you just described?

Taylor Brown

Some of my favorite prop oriented artists meeting that criteria of cohesion and range

https://www.artstation.com/art_of_pilgrim

https://www.artstation.com/revel

https://www.artstation.com/zelfit

https://www.artstation.com/macebo

https://www.artstation.com/alexandersheynin

https://www.artstation.com/rajil_jose_macatangay

https://www.artstation.com/curtis_norton

Zi0

You want to go for something that has a interesting shape, avoid basic crates and chairs etc.

Larry

I would say in general,always try to have in your portfolio a prop that has many parts to model, and a prop that has organic shapes, to show that you can do anything that is asked from you. If you can do props that require some anatomy as well, like a sculpture of some sort, i'd say even better

sprunghunt

Something that many art teachers will do as an exercise is to draw the same thing over and over again in different styles. 

This could be a really good example for a portfolio - pick a simple prop, like a crate, and do it in various art styles.

poopipe

Make scenes.  Individual props don't mean much unless you're doing weapons or vehicles

Taylor Brown

Props can definitely get your foot in the door for the outsource studios who specialize in that area. That's where I started and I've seen it happen countless times at this point. I agree though, not as useful if you're looking for a full enviro art position at a studio.