New to Arch Viz, Could Use Some Friendly Advice.

[Lethargika]

I just want to start off by saying that these forums have been such a great resource for me, and I really appreciate all the contributions:) I've been working on an Architectural Drafting degree lately, but just recently exposed myself to the 3D visual side. I had no idea that this field even existed until recently, but 3d architectural visualization has been something I've been doing for fun for the past couple years, I just had no idea that people actually made a living doing it.

 

I'm hoping some of you can shed some light and provide a more clear outlook on the profession. I want to make sure that there is a realistic chance of getting a job. I know that it takes a great deal of constant learning and education to really become a competing force, and I'm perfectly willing to do that, I just really would prefer to know that there is some light at the end of the tunnel before I enter it. I've done some quick job searches, and hardly anything seems to come up. I've exhausted these forums, trying to get a clear picture, but it's hard. I read through the "Arch is Dead" thread, and got a lot of insight into how the profession is on the verge of change, and we all need to adapt, etc. And I know that the economy is really hurting, and that outsourcing is a huge issue, but just how difficult is it to land a job in this field? Any help would be great! Thanks in advance guys.

Edited February 7, 2010 by Lethargika
Wanted to add

[ihabkal]

in the last few weeks I have seen I think where we are heading: more renderigns and animations! not less. But there is a catch. Prices will get so cheap it won't be worth it to be in this business. That's why i started sampling donuts today from every local store so that I can come up with a super donut that would make me so much money I won't have to do this anymore.

But kidding aside, "normies" (normal people) are more and more used to the idea of seeing renderings and animations, people from all walks of life are becoming image focused, in addition to professional viewers and licensing boards, and commitees and what else, I see everyone in the future wanting a preview of their home building or store.

it is much cheaper to make me change materials on the computer than for them to redo it on site. But due to globalisation and ease of access to cracked software, and the weak weak business sense of many artists, I see pricing getting so low, it won't be on the radar anymore. 300 dollar renderings will be the norm. prices so low, we would all move to china and do it from there. or open a donut shop.