Looking out for a 3D Artist? Need to know how and where to find the best candidates? Here is a comprehensive guide to finding the best 3D Artists. Read on!
How to hire a 3D Artist?
If you own a creative agency, hiring a 3D artist is a must. Some of the major tasks performed by a 3D artist include the creation of 3D models, animations, and visual effects that find usage in different creative projects like films and video games.
A 3D artist makes use of hand techniques as well as computer software to create 3D models. If you are looking for 3D artists, make sure to know if they are good communicators or not. They also need to have an aptitude for art and creativity. A good 3D artist will also be skilled at using different computer software.
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Hiring market for 3D artist
In the last few years, there has been a rising trend for 3D modeling and many organizations are looking forward to hiring 3D artists. With the development in Virtual Reality (VR) technique and a 3D printer, hiring 3D artists has become essential for industries associated with creative tasks.
3D artist jobs are available in numerous industries from architecture to construction and from the gaming industry to the fashion industry. There isn’t a sector or industry where 3D artists can’t work. They can work with architecture to bring life to beautiful homes even before the construction process begins.
Freelance 3D artists are also needed in the movie industry as they can breathe life into animated characters to create realistic and life-like characters and scenes. Thus, looking at the demand for artist 3D across all industries, there is no dearth of opportunities.
Thus, the market for 3D artist jobs is quite bright. As per a prediction, the market demand for 3D artists is worth $175.1 billion and it is expected to achieve an annual growth rate of 21%. So, every artist who knows 3D designing and modeling and who has the needed skills and expertise will get amazing opportunities in the upcoming year.
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Top 15 job titles for 3D artists
Following are some of the major 3D artist job titles.
1. Modeler
The main task of a modeler is to create 3D shapes that can, later on, become CG objects. Modelers can be called virtual sculptors who can easily turn a few curvy lines into a spaceship or a simple cork into a shark’s head. Thus, they can do anything. The average salary demanded by Modeler is $32000-$48000 based on experience and expertise.
2. Texture Artist
Texture artists give color and other properties to an object. They use 2D painting programs and tools like Photoshop to add texture and color to an object or character. A texture artist can demand a salary of $22020-$48,960 depending upon the skills and expertise. It is important for a texture artist to be well-versed with different 3D tools.
3. Lighter
To see any object, we need the object to reflect light. Thus, the main task of a lighter is to place lights onto the 3D environment and adjust the properties so that they can get better scenes. The average salary demanded by a lighter is $33,000.
4. Tracker
The main job of a tracker is to match the movement of the virtual camera that shoots the CG objects. He/she analyzes the scene and creates a camera in the 3D software that is similar to the physical camera that shoots the plate.
5. Layout Artist
A layout artist works as a 3Dartist in a way that they build the visual set. The main focus og a layout artist is to make sure that everyone in the process of shooting has the needed assets they need to complete their tasks with maximum efficiency. The average salary demanded by a layout artist in the US is $53,436 per year.
6. Animator
The actual performance, movement, and behavior of the CG artist are created by an animator. The animator has the task of giving body language, walking style, and lip-sync movement to the CG object. Remote 3D artists and animators can demand an average salary of $77,410 per annum.
7. Rigger
The animator’s controls are created by Rigger. Rigger jobs may also demand Technica work like programming. A well-qualified rigger may expect an average pay of $13 to $25 per hour.
8. FX Artist
Most often different visuals and shots may need additional elements like laser blasts. Smoke, explosion, and other animations. All these additional elements are provided by an FX artist. The average salary demanded by an FX artist can be anywhere between $43,057 to $57,340 per annum.
9. Technical Director
This is a senior position that can be achieved by a 3D digital artist after working in the domain for more than 10 years. The main job of a technical director is to make sure that all tools work properly and also make sure that each element is up to the mark. The average salary demanded by a technical director can be around $3500k.
10. Previsualization Artist
Previsualization is a process of planning an effect or shoot by creating it in 3D before trying to do it in real. They are involved with the task of making low-quality animations of action. Even a beginner level freelance 3D artist can work as a previsualization artist.
11. VFX Supervisor
More experienced 3D illustrators can become VFX supervisors. They have experience in on-set filming and other technical details.
12. CG Supervisor
The CG supervisor also works in close collaboration with the VFX supervisor. They have the major task of planning and they ensure that the technical aspects of visual effect and 3D animation are done properly.
13. Concept Artist
The concept artist works in close collaboration with the director to dream the type of characters and animations are needed. The average salary demanded by a concept artist in the USA is $54,455 per annum.
14. Storyboard Artist
Storyboards are traditionally used for different feature animation projects. The main task of a digital 3D artist or a storyboard artist is to create frame sketches that can convey camera angles, environments, and rough animations.
15. Matte Painter
A matter painter creates 2.5D elements for shots. They may also create different elements needed for 3D animation.
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Qualifications to look for in 3D artist
If you are looking to hire 3D artist, try to look for a 3D artist who has completed at least a bachelor’s degree. The degree should be in a related field like computer science, graphics, or multimedia field. You can also hire 3 D artists with a specialization in game designing or interactive media. A good portfolio and technical skills are a must for a 3D artist.
It is also important to look for a candidate who has the zeal and passion to learn. The students should try to push his/her limits and try to upgrade themselves with the changing technology in the 3D animation and designing domain. You can choose candidates who have studied in any of these colleges and universities in the USA.
| University/College | Location |
| Ringling College of Art and Design | Florida |
| California Institute of the Arts | California |
| Savannah College of Art and Design | Georgia |
| University of Southern California | California |
| School of Visual Arts | New York |
| Rhode Island School of Design | Rhode Island |
| School of the Art Institute of Chicago | Illinois |
| Pratt Institute | New york |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Pennsylvania |
| Academy of Art University | California |
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Skills to look for in 3D artist
If you want your designing and animation company to grow and prosper, it is very important to select the right candidate for the task. Best 3D artists will have the following skillsets,
1. Graphic designing
Before you look for a 3D artist for hire, make sure that the artist has the needed knowledge about graphic designing. Try to make sure that the candidate can make 3D designs easily.
2. Creativity
Creativity is a major skill that you should look for in a 3 D artist. Creativity will enable the candidate to create the best designs and animation as per the need of your client.
3. Attention to details
All creative tasks need the candidate to have a focus on attention to detail. As graphic use in entertainment and other industries is increasing, audiences look at different details. Thus, it is important for a 3D artist to have an eye for details.
4. Excellent memory
At any point in their career, a 3D artist may be asked to use an older software or they may be asked to show a particular animation. Thus, it is important for the candidate to have an excellent memory if he/she wants to thrive well in the industry.
5. Unity skills
3D artists for hire should also have adequate knowledge to use the Unity tool for 3D animation and designing.
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Certifications to look for in 3D artist
Even if a candidate has a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree, certifications act as a feather on the cap of the candidate. Thus, you can check if the 3D artist online has the following certifications or not,
1. 3D Modelling certification
The course provided information and skills that can be used by beginners as well as pro-3D artists. Students learn the basics of Unity, Zbrush, and Maya substance painting through this certificate.
2. Certification in Unity
This certificate enables candidates to create different characters in animation. Candidates have to import models into Unity so that they can interface properly with the game engine.
3. Certification in ZBrush
The ZBrush certification is helpful in creating high poly character models. It also helps candidates to create props and an environment using organic and hard surface techniques.
4. CAD fundamental certificate
This certification can help candidates to create designs in 3D models so that they can visualize the elements.
5. Simulation and modeling certification
This certification is helpful in creating and analyzing a digital prototype of a physical model to predict its performance in the real-world environment.
6. Introduction to Unity by Domestika
This certification enables students to master tools to create video games and other animations. This series of course is for 3D artists who have to work with the Unity platform.
7. Basic 3D animation using blender
This certification will help you to learn the basics of 3D animation including key-framing, timing, and different animation principles.
8. Introduction to Maya by CG Master academy
This is a 10-week introductory course that uses Maya to model, animate, texture, render, and more. Through this course, students are introduced to the Maya interface and they also get lectures regarding the application of these tools in the VFX games.
9. Visualization using 3D CAD Software
The visualization aspect can be an asset for some other sectors like architecture. This is a smart way to show different architecture projects to the customers because of the rendering tools of CAD Software.
10. After effects by Udemy
This course can enable people who are new to After effects. No previous animation or motion graphic knowledge is needed. Taking up this course will enable 3D artists to produce impressive videos for business or organization.
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Rate per hour of 3D artist
The 3D artist hourly rate in the United States is $45 as of January 29, 2021. But the salary range can typically fall between $38 and $53. The average Hourly rate for 3D artists can vary widely depending on many important factors, including education, certifications, additional skills, the number of years spent in the profession.
In addition to this, additional certifications and skills can also improve the salary of a 3D artist. The average hourly wage (pay per hour) in Europe is 18 EUR. This means that the average 3D Artist in Europe earns approximately 18 EUR for every worked hour.
The hourly wage is the salary paid in one worked hour. Thus, the payment to a 3D artist in Europe is comparatively less as compared to western nations. The average salary for a 3d designer in Asian nations is $3,088 per month. Thus, a 3D artist in the Asian region receives less payment as compared to artists in other parts of the world.
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Top 10 job boards to find best 3D artist
Following are the top 10 job boards that can help you in hiring best 3D artists.
- TopTal – TopTal is known for offering amazing job opportunities to people belonging to the creative field.
- unremot.com – This is a newly emerging platform that can help you in hiring best 3D artists at an affordable wage.
- Upwork – Upwork is one of the most popular job boards these days and it can help you in hiring best 3D artists as per the demands of your organization.
- Dribbble – Dribble was specially designed for designers, animators, and people belonging to the creative arena. Thus, it is one of the best platforms that you can check to hire best 3D animators and artists.
- Working Not Working – This platform can help you hire top quality freelancers who can work as 3D artists.
- Behance – The best part about Behance is that you can check the portfolio of the candidate before hiring.
- Freelancer – If you are looking to hire a freelance 3D artist, Freelancer is a platform that can help you in hiring top-quality freelancers at an affordable price.
- AIGA – AIGA is a job platform that offers jobs for US candidates only.
- KROP – This is a job board that offers you to hire well-qualified 3D artists by paying a minimum fee.
- Linkedin – Linkedin is a type of social media platform that can connect you with the best candidates without paying a single penny.
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Top 10 companies hiring 3D artist and salaries offered
Following are the top 10 companies that are hiring 3D artists. You can also check the salary column to find a job as per your salary expectation.
| Company | Salary Offered |
| Blizzard Entertainment | $113,560 |
| WayFair | $48,662 |
| $1,54,980 | |
| Microsoft | $79,986 |
| The LEGO Group | $75,083 |
| Full Sail University | $30,162 |
| Wargaming | $70,156 |
| Apple | $73,438 |
| Rockstar Games | $68,600 |
| Framestore | $53,320 |
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Top 10 interview questions for 3D artist
Following are some of the important questions that you can ask a candidate for the job of 3D artist.
1. Why do you want to work as a 3D artist?
Rationale: This question will enable you to know if the candidate is passionate about the job and will he/she be able to handle the responsibilities.
Sample Answer: I like to work in an industry and domain that has stayed ahead of the competition by foreseeing the changes in the trends in the market.
2. Where do you see yourself 5 years from now as a 3D artist?
Rationale: This question will enable you to know about the seriousness of the candidate towards the career he/she has chosen. This is also a behavioral question that will help you know about the behavior of the candidate.
Sample Answer: I envision myself being in an art director position after five years. I am sure I will achieve a senior position in a period of 5-years.
3. Do you know what a GIF is?
Rationale: This is a beginner level question that you can ask a 3D artist with little to no knowledge.
Sample Answer: GIF basically means Graphics Interchange Format. This is a simple format of the bitmap image. It supports a maximum of 8BPP. It is also helpful in allowing a single image to be referenced as a palette.
4. Do you know the meaning of Ambient Occlusion?
Rationale: This is another technical question that you can ask a candidate belonging to an entry-level as well as pro-level.
Sample Answer: The term Ambient Occlusion is related to bright light that can shine on any surface.
5. Can you explain the difference between an animation and a video?
Rationale: This is a simple question that you can ask a beginner level 3D artist who has zero experience of working in an organizational setup.
Sample Answer: Animation means drawing sketches of different objects and then drawing illustrations at different angles. On the other hand, videos are made by using video cameras and the real movements of objects are shown.
6. Tell me about your artwork
Rationale: This question is directed to get details about the art side of the candidate and to make sure that the candidate is creative.
Sample Answer: I have experience working for more than 5 years as a 3D artist. I have a degree in fine arts and I have completed lots of projects for reputed brands and clients.
7. Can you manage a big team?
Rationale: This question will enable you to know if the candidate is capable enough to handle responsibilities.
Sample Answer: Yes, I was working with a team of 11 members in my last company. So, I am sure I will be able to manage a big team.
8. How do you handle stress?
Rationale: This is a behavioral question that you can ask the candidate. The answer to the question will reveal the maturity level of the candidate.
Sample Answer: I try to leave the work stress at work and I don’t carry it to my home and vice versa. I also meditate every morning. Thus, meditation helps me a lot in getting rid of stress.
9. What is your greatest weakness as a 3D artist?
Rationale: This is another behavioral question that you can ask a 3D artist.
Sample Answer: I accept too much work in an effort to please everyone. This leads to losing focus and extra stress. I am trying my best to get rid of this weakness. In addition to this, I also try to add perfection to every piece of animation and design I create. I am trying my best to get rid of this weakness.
10. How do you deal with criticism at work?
Rationale: This is another behavior question that can help you know about the candidate in a better way.
Sample Answer: I take criticism quite positively as it helps me in improving my work quality.
11. Can you tell me how to animate a text and fade it out?
Rationale: This is a bit of a technical question that you can ask a 3D artist. Answers to this question will enable you to know if the candidate is technically proficient or not.
Sample Answer: Animation of text fade is mostly done with fireworks. The changed opacity is from 0% to 100% over a set of different frames. Then, the animation is reversed with another text object with an opacity of 100% to 0%.
12. What do you mean by interlacing?
Rationale: This is another technical question that you can ask a 3D artist.
Sample Answer: Interlacing is displaying a single frame of video into two different frames. Each frame is split into alternating lines.
13. What do you mean by the persistence of vision?
Rationale: This is a theoretical question that can be asked to a 3D artist.
Sample Answer: Persistence of vision is a phenomenon of the eye under which the image is persisted approximately 1/20th of a second on the retina. The visual form of memory that is also called the iconic memory is the cause of the persistence of vision.
14. Can you explain to me about XAML?
Rationale: This is a technical question that you can ask 3D artists. This question will enable you to know if the candidate understands the technicality associated with 3D animation.
Sample Answer: XAML basically refers to eXtensive Application Markup Language. It is also known as declarative Markup language. The main task of a XAML is to simplify UI Creation for.NET Framework application.
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