3D Artist
A 3D artist is in the art department stage of producing a game, after it has been designed by the writers and before it goes to the animation department. They use the concept artists work to build the required models for the game. Occasionally a 3D artist will consult with writers and concept artists to see if the models required are able to be produced by the software with the required specification or will tweaks be required to produce the best model possible for the game. A 3D artist normally has to make several versions of a model from feedback given before a final outcome is achieved. Often in smaller studios a 3D artist is responsible for texturing models too, if a team is not large enough for texturing to be assigned to a separate job role. This means to be a successful 3D artist, you have to be comfortable with creating a model, UV’ing it and texturing it.
Desirable Skills for a 3D Artist;
- Good Communication – A 3D artist is often the go between the writers/concept artist and the rest of the art department.
- Good Time Management skills – 3D artists are usually on a tight schedule other departments are waiting on their work to carrying on production, for example a 3D artist creating a character that an animator needs to rig. This means that 3D artists need to be highly skilled in making models in quick time frames and able to work around any issues that appear, while still meeting deadlines.
- Ability to work as a team and individually
- Use of Software
Examples of 3D Artist
3D artist in NI
Michael McDonald is a 3D environment artist, originally from Northern Ireland but now based in Sheffield, most recently working for Playground Games, working on Forza Horizon 4. His main skillset includes use of 3Ds Max, Zbrush and Photoshop.
Mcdonald decribes his role as a 3D environment artist as mainly developing high poly models and decals using 3Ds Max.