10 Top Careers in 3D Computer Animation

3D computer animation is a fast-growing field. The industry is predicted to grow nearly sevenfold over the next few years, and demand for skilled animators is only increasing along with it. With so many opportunities available, it can be difficult to know where to begin looking. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities for those who want to go into computer animation.

Here’s a list of the top careers in 3D computer animation.

7 Top Careers in 3D Computer Animation

3D Computer Animation Artist

Computer animation allows animators to bring their creativity to another level. By using digital technology to create realistic-looking characters and environments, an animator can bring their ideas to life. A great place to begin exploring this career path is by learning the software used in computer animation. By using different software and then bringing the results to Life dimensional, you’ll be able to create realistic-looking characters and environments.

3D Character Animator

The job of a character animator is to create lifelike characters by using computer animation. The basic concepts of animation are the same for all disciplines, but the tools used are different. Character animators use Maya (which is a Maya-based software), which is more than capable of creating high-quality animation. However, many character animators choose to use software with more features, like the Renderman toolset, to speed up the process and create more realistic results. Maya, along with its various spin-offs, is the most popular software used in character animation. Other software options include Cyberith, Softimage, and 3D artists working in After Effects may also choose to use it. Character animators create “animated” characters, meaning the movements are computer generated but appear real enough to the viewer. Some character animators use extra software to create “VFX” (anime-specific effects) for their characters’ poses and movements. VFX can include spins, kicks, jumps, etc.

3D Environment Artist

An environment artist works on a project-by-project basis, depending on the project’s requirements. They are responsible for providing a virtual reality (VR) for the project’s characters. The projects usually range from 2D to 3D, and the types of VR used will vary with the project’s purpose. Common methods used in VR creation are computer graphics (CG), physical modeling, and virtual reality. A key feature of VR creation is being able to see the characters from different angles. This is often achieved by using rotations and reflections, but it can also be done using cameras and projections. Most VR systems allow you to move the camera and view from different points of view, which allows you to create a wide variety of scenes. Some character designers prefer to use virtual reality in tandem with a traditional modeling workflow to create more realistic characters.

3D Lighting and FX Artist

Lighting and FX artists use light sources, such as lightmaps, lights, spotlights, and much more, to achieve the final look of a scene. Most light sources are hand-painted, but digital light sources are also used. These can be either software-based (like Adobe Photoshop) or hardware-based (like lightbox). The general idea behind light sources is the same as with any other artistic medium: give your model light to look at. Light sources can be used to create a myriad of effects, from shadows to lights to moody nights. Shadows are common in computer animation because of the limitations of the light source and the shadows it creates. One of the most important things for a lighting artist to know is how to use light to its advantage.

3D Modeler

3D modeling is the process of creating 3D models from 2D data. It is different from 2D modeling, which is used for designing or creating objects without any reference to the third dimension. Modeling is a creative process, where the modeler studies the design and technical aspects of a given object to determine how it should appear. Technical aspects such as surface tension, friction, and solids can all be used to create realistic-looking models. When a modeler creates a model, they are usually creating a three-dimensional appearance. It is important to note that a model can still appear two-dimensional while remaining fully 3D.

Final Cut Editor (Editor)

The most fundamental role of an editor is to convert digital data (such as 3D models) into something more tangible, such as a video or a sequence of still images. However, there are many other uses for editors that are as important, if not more, than the ones listed above. Some of the more common ones are: Converting formats like 3D model format, obj, or stl files to other programs like Mudbox, Zbrush, or Maya. Optimizing the performance of a model or sequence of models. Retouching or enhancing a model or sequence of models.

Game Art and Animation

Games are a creative field with endless opportunities for developers. With the increasing popularity of virtual reality and humanoid robots, it’s no surprise that the field of 3D computer animation has seen a surge in popularity. With more opportunities than ever before, it’s easy to see why this is the top choice for a career in computer animation.

Storyboarding Artist

Storyboarding is an initial part of the project. Storyboarding artist is responsible for drawing, they can be digital or traditional that helps you arrange the scene. Artists, with the help of simple drawings made in a box, give the team an idea of how the story will flow, decide the camera angle, movements of the character, and what will happen in that scene so that the team can add, remove and amplify the emotion and movements required. This will allow the team to select and reject the scene to avoid frustration and confusion midway. It is an important part of 3D computer animation. 

Movies, television, and animation videos require storyboarding artists.

Character Design Artist

As the name suggests, the character designer is responsible for designing characters in the field of 3D computer animation. They study the story and the project to understand the need and the appearance of the character. They build a character from scratch that matches the requirements of a project like the art style, period of character, what kind of culture they belong to, and the audience they are being designed for. 

Game development and animation movies require a character designer.

Game development, movies, and television require 3D modeling artists.

Product Designer

Product designers are important assets of companies as they create products virtually. They use their 3D computer animation to convert the product from paper into digital. By doing this, you get a better perspective of how the product will look when developed in real. This helps them make decisions related to looks, surface, color, and other functional features.

Conclusion

Computer animation is a rapidly growing field that has a plethora of opportunities for those who want to get involved. From character design to environment design, there’s a lot you can do with computer animation. To get a head start on the career path, consider these 3D computer animation jobs. In no time you’ll be making the leap from concept artist to 3D computer animation artist.