This 46 year olds goal is to work with video games on the art side of things. Mostly interested in Character creation but many other things are possible too.
Recently I applied to go to a 3D Modeling, Animation and Design diploma program at a reconized college in Vancouver. I may or may not get the funds to go to school soooo...
Either way, if I go to the college I will still be on here at CG Cookie for sure!
If I do not get into this college I will treat CG Cookie as my college and spend at least 4 to 5 hours a day learning as if I was going to college. I plan on ducumenting my journey.
Do you think I have a chance at making it to becoming a game artist/ 3d artist by going at it on my own?
Yes, I know I should at least be somewhat creative! haha
Would love your input and if you know of some great 3d artist, or similar, who have made it without to much school, point me to him/her!
Looking forward to hearing back guys and gals.
- Richard Huard
Hey Richard! Welcome to CG Cookie! Here's my perspective and experience:
My profession is Video Production and VFX with some Music / Audio production on the side. Nearly everything I do was self-taught via resources like CG Cookie and YouTube. I did go to college for Video Production, but I didn't learn too much more than most YouTubers will just happily teach nowadays.
That being said, the benefit of college will always be the more personalized and hands-on learning from (usually) seasoned professionals. You'll be getting fairly close to that here minus a degree, though portfolios tend to win jobs more than degrees in our industries. While CG Cookie is mostly Blender focused, a lot of the skills you learn here can translate to a lot of other creative processes and software.
I'm not primarily a 3D artist, though I use it a lot in my day-to-day work. I've been coming to CG cookie to further my opportunities and abilities. If anything, I'd look at CG cookie as a means of both starting your career, as well as figuring out if this is what you want to do without sinking so much money into college programs right away.
You'll often find that the best artists are self-taught with or without formal education. It'll be an ever-evolving process of learning from here on out, and if you can find comfort in that and stay dedicated, you'll come out the other end with success.
Thank you Antonio for that great input. I know this is what I want to do for sure. My question was not only for me but am hoping others reading this can see that if there is a will there is a way for anyone.
I will be keeping track of my journey and when I get to where I want, it will show others that they can reach for the clouds too.
That's admirable, and I'll be keeping my eye out for your progress. You'll make fantastic progress with that passion!
I personally learned mostly everything I know about 3D through CG Cookie and although I haven't turned it into my full time job as yet (mainly because of having twins last year! :) ) it has so far enabled me to make a good bit of money over the past few years doing freelancing in my spare time and I have also collaborated with several studios on some projects of theirs. So yes , it is entirely possible if you are willing to put in the time and effort , and CG cookie is definitely the best place to be!
Wow, this is certainly inspiring for sure. I really appreciate your input. I will certainly follow you and you may see a message in your inbox too! :)
Thank you.