Quote:
Originally posted by benp
I've already gotten into it a bit and money for a program is no problem I would be able to get MAYA if it was out,, and I like drawing but i also like computers so I figured graphic design, so just to get started what is the best program.... |
It sounds to me that you are interested in 3DCG, so.......
You will need both traditional and computer art skill eventually, so don't choose one over the other, keep doing both as much as possible. Most good design jobs require art degrees, and computer skills, especially 3DCG. I am a 3DCG professional and have a Fine Art Degree, and Computer Science Degree. It's not a easy field to get into by any means. You usually need exceptional drawing, sculpting, modeling, and animation skills if you want to work at one of the bigger studios like Pixar, PDI, DreamWorks, and so on. One cool thing is that most of the bigger studios have added game deveopment departments, so you can get in with minimal skills and work your way up. It's also a very time consuming and stressful job, so I would recomend just dabbling in it for awhile, you have plenty of time before you are going to need to get serious about it. Don't rush it, focus on your drawing, and other traditional skills until you get out of highschool, then take classes at a art school. Most major art schools/colleges have weekend and night classes in computer graphics. Then when you've built up a good portfolio, apply to one of the art colleges computer degree programs. Then say goodbye to life as you know it! From their it's all caffeene and looking into a glowing box till the wee hours of the night, ha ha. No really, It's a very rewarding job, and you'll love it if it's wht your ment to do. You'll know right away if it's right for you, but don't get discouraged if you find the first few year are tough. Most beginners have a hard time grasping 3D environments. The usual mistake is to think that another package will be easier, and jump from package to package thinking the next will be easier, just to find it's just as difficult. Pick one and stay with it, once you learn one well, it's pretty easy to translate that knowledge to another package. Try downloading the Cinema4D Demo, it's a good starting point. Most importantly have fun, and don't forget to be a kid, most of us artist are still kids inside anyways. Spend lot of time outside and study lighting, and materials. Take lots of pictures, and look closely at nature. It's important to spend as much time away from your computer as it is with it. Computers can eat your soul away, so be carefull not to spend to much time working on 3D stuff, because it's time consuming. Take breaks every hour, because it's not uncommon to work 16 hours straight, I do it every other day!