Jump to content

Possible career change?


Bosko655
 Share

Recommended Posts

I am a 40 year old with a BArch and 4 yrs experience in the Architecture field. I have worked with 3D programs such as Form-Z, Viz, 3D Max, Microstation, and Revit. I also work with photoshop, premiere, and InDesign as well as Macromedia Flash.

 

While I am not master of any (Revit and Photoshop being my best), i am wondering if anyone, based on this info, knows if it would be possible to get a job working for a computer visualization firm or if I need to learn more software. I plan on working to learn more on the programs I currently have some grasp of, but I am not sure if this is enough to get my foot in the door.

 

I still love architecture, but I enjoy doing renderings and animations more.

 

If anyone has any info or advice to pass on, it would be greatly appreciated.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Sure it's possible. As for learning new software, that never ends so don't let it hamper you. Changing career paths can be difficult as you have worked your way up to where you are based on the skillsets that define your current position. Changing to another career can seem much like starting over again so your successful transition is largely conditional upon your expectations.

Apply to companies you are interested in and see what kind of feedback you get based on your portfolio.

If you are strong in modeling but weak in texturing and lighting, use a generic sun/sky system and use either wireframe or a monochromatic color scheme to render out your models. A bad texture job can distract from what it is you are trying to present.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

You probably should concentrate on your portfolio. The art. You obviously can learn and use software, have the necessary understanding of architecture. What would set you apart would be whether you can craft a good piece or arch-vis. If you can, I don't see why you wouldn't be able to land a spot at an arch-vis studio somewhere.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

No, I don't have a 3D graphic specific portfolio. I can esily put one together with the work I have done at different firms. I wanted to see what things perspective firms would be looking for b4 i did that. I am always willing to relocate. I relocated every three years in the Marine Corps.:)

 

I appreciate everyones input. Sorry it took me so long to look at these. I have been a little busy at work.

 

Please let me know if there is any other waluable info i could use or where i should look for more.

 

Thanks!!

Link to comment
Share on other sites

I would suggest working towards building good fundamental skills with ACAD / MAX / Viz and Sketchup as these are the workhorse 3D programs you'll find in many arch. firms. AutoCAD is a real key one to have some familiarity with as it is by far the choice of the majority of arch. firms out there though there certainly are other programs around like Microstation or Archicad. Your previous work and experience level is also helpful for what you're talking about and would be appealing to an arch. firm that wanted to keep 3D work in house if you wanted to go that route.

 

The advice to focus on your portfolio is definitely good as the better images you have in there then the better impression you'll make with potential companies. I'd suggest Googling around to find specific viz firms you're interested in and check out their websites to learn as much as you can about their work, project, firm focus etc. Many times they'll have job listings or descriptions of what they look for in potential applicants which can be very valuable to learn what goals to set for yourself.

 

Good luck with it!:)

Dave (p.s. in Savannah, did you study at SCAD by chance? I've wondered how their arch. program is)

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...