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3D Renderer-Designer
What You Do
To construct a 3D model, renderers gather all materials showing dimensions, positioning, and detail, such as hand-drawn sketches or blueprints. All this data is converted to a computer image that the renderer can manipulate and shape into a coherent, crisp image. Renderers create different types of lighting and animate figures or drawings.
Three-dimensional services are used for book and magazine covers, animation, logos, and virtual reality. This type of work is needed in product illustration, packaging illustration, web site design, information graphics, and video title sequences. Other potential areas of employment include CD-ROM production, computer game design, technical illustration, architectural renderings, and interior design.
Characteristics
Besides enjoying art and design, a 3D renderer needs to master specialized computer software. Since they must constantly upgrade their computer skills to match state-of-the-art technology, renderers should be quick learners.
Training
Academic qualifications are not crucial to this work, and in fact, many people can learn CAD software on their own or on the job. Software skills and familiarity with how the computer "thinks" about models are two important skills for the job. In addition to a college degree and a design background, a 3-D renderer should also have a good knowledge of terminology, be good at lighting, and have a solid grasp of camera work. It is important to have a professional portfolio.
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