New to CG Architect and requesting advice

[Swiftly1985]

Hello everyone,

 

My name is Andrew and I'm new to this community. I am very interested in becoming a Arch Vis artist but have no direct experience. I studied Animation, concentrating on 3d and since then have always continued to develop my own skills and portfolio. I originally wanted to go into the games industry as an artist but over time my ambitions have changed.

 

As I was originally producing 3d work aimed more at game assets, my architectural portfolio isn't that big - I've been concentrating on that more recently.

 

Could anyone enlighten me as to what a CG portfolio should include and maybe give me some criticism about how to improve to make myself more employable.

 

I will be uploading some renders soon...

 

Andy

[Devin Johnston]

I think your best bet would be to look for a job with a viz company instead of an architectural firm because many architectural firms want their viz artists to have architectural degrees. In order to build up a portfolio of work I'd suggest that you purchase a few architectural magazines and copy the images you see as closely as possible. This will give you good practice in carrying a project from start to finish.

[BrianKitts]

+1 to devin's answer of going to a viz firm first, and make it a priority to learn how to fluently read and navigate an architectural drawing set in addition to the development of your renderings skills.

[Swiftly1985]

Thanks for the advice. I'll start a new project over the weekend I think - I'll find some images to copy. I'll have a search for a website that I can get some architectural building plans from as well and try to work from that.

 

I take it that it's more common to use 3ds max for architectural work? I've been using Maya for the last 5 years but I did have a few years experience with Max beforehand, so would you suggest working in Max, or do you think that the skills are interchangeable? I personally think they are, after using both programs but I'm happy to start using Max again for this type of work.

 

Also, I'm aware it's too early for me to be looking for work in this sector but do you know if it's common for companies to employ people at a junior level, or is strictly experience based?

 

Thanks again for the feedback!!

[Devin Johnston]

Max is going to be the primary app for most arch viz firms but some studios use Maya, it would be in your best interest to learn Max though. Since the economy took a dump the architecture world and by association the viz sector has contracted a lot, it's going to be hard to find any job so I'd think your best bet is a junior level position for now.