learning path and job opportunities

#1

Hi,

I’m wondering if you could help me with choosing the right learning path in CG.

I’ve started in 3ds max with some modelling, now I’m into animation (MotionBuilder). I have real problem with choosing things I should learn. I love art, but I’ve spent too many years studying math and physics and I definitely won’t consider myself as artist. I think that the best job for me would be something semi-technical, semi-artistic.

I found some jobs like Character FX Animator, or other that combine 3D art and programming.

I was at University of Technology, now on Film School and I study CG myself.

Can you give me some feedback on technical-artistis jobs in CG and what should I master? Is it worth to get into programming, or forget it and take up drawing?

I know that it’s very general question, but I’d really appreciate any comments and help.

#2

So here is a fairly general answer. I suppose it really depends on what you want. If your goal is to find employment, then your choice may be different then if it is all about your love for art. That being said, I can only comment on what I have seen in the past. From what I have seen, those students that have technical/programming skills that are involved in animation/cg have had more opportunities for gainful employment, whether a paid internship or employment upon graduation. Not to say that some pure artists didn’t, but it just seemed to be that the technical people had more opportunities. There are thousands of people learning some aspect of the VFX/Gaming/Animation industry whether at a school or on their own. Most hope for employment in the industry. So if you are open to different options, you might want to consider what you can learn to fill a need with less competition. For example, at the 2011 Siggraph I was able to attend the Disney Educators’ forum; one thing they shared was that for the conference they received about 700 reels of hopeful students. Over 90% were from students that wanted to be “Animators” while they received just a few for people that wanted to be lighters or some other area of expertise. Which would have the better chance to get in they asked, one of 600+ “Animators” or one of a handful of other specialists? So take that for what its worth. Good luck.

#3

Thanks for your explanation. I must say I’m quite happy to read this, because I was afraid that pure artists will beat me in everything.

Yeah, being in this 90% is the worst thing that can happen. I’ll defenitely keep looking for some more uncommon jobs and train for that.

Thanks for your tips again.