Modelling Artists

Modelling artis is primarily responsible for creating characters, weapons, plants and animals in 3D on the computer.

After checking out several websites, I first found out that modelling artists are able to produce models in a variety of different styles. It is also possible to create 3D models from 2D illustrations. This means that the profession of modelling artist can be used in many different fields. Secondly, when I was looking for information about the profession I found that modelling artists often work alongside or intersect with Texture Artists. This means that a modelling artist is not only able to create 3D models but can also create textures.

Requirements for Modelling Artists:

• Accomplished examples of Modelling, Texturing and Shading both hard surface and sculpted assets
• Thorough knowledge of Modelling package of your choice is essential
• Thorough knowledge of Zbrush and/or Mudbox is essential
• Thorough knowledge of Mari and/or Bodypaint 3D or other 3D texturing software is essential
• Basic understanding of Lighting and Look Development

In my opinion this career is very demanding in terms of work experience. As in the production of animated games and other film and television productions. Models of characters, environments etc. are the basic work of production. This requires Modelling Artists to produce accurate and aesthetically pleasing models in a short period of time. This is a skill that needs to be built up over the years.

Web Reference:

https://www.spinvfx.com/careers/modeltexture-artist/ https://www.axisstudiosgroup.com/careers/jobs/modeling-texturing-artist-vfx/

Animators

An animator is an artist who creates multiple images, called frames, which, when displayed in rapid sequence, create an illusion of movement known as animation. Animators can work in a variety of fields, including film, television and video games.

Animators as VFX are usually divided into several professions, namely 2D animators, who usually animate by hand. 3D animators usually use software such as Maya to k-frame their animations.

In today’s film and television production industry, animators often do not use k-frames for animation. This is because the advent of motion capture technology has greatly reduced the burden on animators. And animation capture technology has also made animation more fluid.

Requirements for Animators:

• strong artistic skills
• minimum of 3 years experience creating convincing performance and motion for live action feature film and television series
• a strong sense of camera work and framing for full cg or previs shot creation.
• working knowledge of Maya
• understanding of all aspects of 3D animation
• the ability to communicate creative and technical thoughts and ideas
• the ability to multi-task and prioritize
• the ability to meet deadlines and follow directions

In general the animator’s responsibility is to animate to the director’s subplot. With the maturity of technology and software. The animator’s job is also changing drastically.

Web Reference:

https://www.spinvfx.com/animator/ https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Animator#

Texture Artist

A Texture Artist is responsible for creating photorealistic textures for mapping onto 3D objects used in video games, films, television, music videos, or commercials.

Usually only the larger companies have a dedicated Texture Artist, this is because textures are an important factor in enriching the model. Many smaller companies do not divide their positions so simply. This is because many of their models are not very detailed either.

Texture artists are usually very good at hand painting and they will go about creating different styles of texture mapping to suit the different requirements of their employers. This also places a high demand on their ability to hand-draw effects and modify images. And it is a very detailed job. The textures are very detailed. It is also very demanding for the texturist to be observant in life.

Requirements for Texture Artist:

• Liaising with designers and developers regarding the design brief
• Liaising with the director, cinematographer, design department on the finishes of the texturing 
• Researching reference materials for aesthetics and genre of game, film or animation
• Working with post production and visual effects teams for seamless integration with footage
• Develop and refine textures during the production process
• Collaborate with animators and modelers on the best textures for each object and character
• Create a diverse and compelling range of textures that will engage the player and enhance gameplay
• UV mapping
• Maintain a high level of design and photorealism throughout
• Curate a consistent look of all the elements of the game

I think Texture Artist has a more important role to play in VFX. Because the texture is what determines how people feel when they watch a film or video. A good texture gives the viewer a better experience. That’s why this profession is so important.

Web Reference:

https://www.cgspectrum.com/career-pathways/texture-artist https://www.productionbase.co.uk/blog/2019/07/30/become-texture-artist/

Environment Artist

3D environment artists are 3D modellers who specialise in creating indoor and outdoor environments for film or video games.

Environmental artist seems to me to be in the same category of profession as model modeller. It’s just that one focuses on Modelling Artists and the other on modelling environments.

Environmental artists often have to build many virtual scenes based on film and television productions. And they have to set up a series of physical laws according to the environment in which they are set. For example, a space environment is set up to be weightless.

Requirements for Environment Artist:

• Modeling and texturing elements
• Liaising with the Art Director and Lead Artist regarding the layout and style of environments within the film or game
• Working from storyboards and concept art to develop environments
• Researching references and resources for creation of backdrops
• Creating prototypes and mock-ups in the early stages of production

Environmental artists will contribute greatly to the aesthetics of a film or television production. Many of the best films and television productions are made with very beautiful and stunning scenery that people can marvel at.

Web Reference:

https://www.cgspectrum.com/career-pathways/environment-artist https://www.gameindustrycareerguide.com/how-to-become-a-video-game-environment-artist/