This year I've started learning MAYA and have been a generalist to start with, in order to understand the whole pipeline and to assist my team members in the short I'm directing. I've experimented with modelling, texturing, rigging, lighting and rendering, however, found modelling and texturing particularly enjoyable. I must build a strong modelling portfolio for job applications and have decided to develop mini modelling and texturing projects outside of uni work for this. Ideally, I would love to work in a busy studio as I work best with other creatives. I have also considered jobs outside of the animation industry and am particularly interesting in architecture and interior design.
Generally, jobs I have been looking at suggest expectations of applicants to have traditional drawing skills, understanding of the 3D pipeline, ability to refine concepts, UV unwrapping skills, low-polygon modelling, Arnold, V-Ray, octane, render-man and redshift rendering knowledge. Software most studios are using and have asked for a working understanding of are MAYA, substance, Mari, Zbrush, Mudbox, 3dsmax, Cinema 4D, Houdini and Python. Software knowledge is vital when applying and I've decided to learn Mudbox and 3dsmax when creating my mini projects for my portfolio so I have evidence of using a range of software throughout.
I have a family friend who worked for the BBC and has offered his assistance in critiquing my portfolio before applying to jobs, along with advice for networking with people in the industry. LinkedIn have constant job listings from the industry and I have saved appropriate jobs in the UK I would like to apply to. The main issue at the moment is the lack of a strong portfolio and the confidence to apply. I plan to have a portfolio/showreel ready for the middle of April to apply in time for jobs starting in June/July.
Once my tenancy in Leeds is finished, I plan on moving to the Manchester with 3 other LAU graduates as the animation hub there would be amazing to get into. My plan until then is to apply like crazy but am aware it could take time to be accepted straight away. I could be working in a restaurant/bar to pay rent for the first few months but could also use this time to build upon my portfolio and meet contacts in Manchester. I hope to also work freelance doing commissioned pieces from online clients, or build 3D assets and sell them online.
Living in Manchester provides the opportunity to go to pubs near animation studios and meet people who work there, making good contacts. Manchester animation festival is also there and means I won't have to travel far like the previous years, I will also be available to work at this time and will be taken more seriously at networking events.
