What is required to be a graphics programmer?
by Andrew D. · in Torque Developer Network · 09/24/2008 (1:14 pm) · 4 replies
I have a few questions about graphic programming jobs. Some job descriptions require experience in 3d modeling programs. How much experience is required? Would a course in 3d modeling look better then self-taught on a resume? What is the best way to prove that I have what it takes to use a 3d modeling application?
#3
I get applicants who have no portfolio and I have no clue if they can draw in the style I need or if they even have the basic skills down. I may ask for a portfolio when I reply, but I'll typically just dismiss them out of hand.
When an applicant has a portfolio, I always spend time looking over his or her work in detail and asking specific questions about his or her abilities to do my work. Another important feature is to do some work in a fixed amount of time. Show me what you can do with 20 hours of work.
09/24/2008 (3:38 pm)
As somebody who has hired artists, I find that the portfolio sells the person. I get applicants who have no portfolio and I have no clue if they can draw in the style I need or if they even have the basic skills down. I may ask for a portfolio when I reply, but I'll typically just dismiss them out of hand.
When an applicant has a portfolio, I always spend time looking over his or her work in detail and asking specific questions about his or her abilities to do my work. Another important feature is to do some work in a fixed amount of time. Show me what you can do with 20 hours of work.
Torque Owner Infinitum3D
However, if you have the skills and portfolio (and YEARS of experience) to back up self-taught experience, then that goes a long way after you get an interview.
So basicaly, if you're looking for a quick skill to add to a resume, a course by an accredited school is better than a few weeks on-your-own.
Don't ever say you're experienced unless you can back it up. I'm a licensed dentist, but I love computers. Even though I have NO formal education in computers, I still freelance on weekends doing tech support and PC repairs for local shops. I've been building computers since 1992 and programming in Basic since the mid 80's. I've been using StudioMax and Maya for about ten years. I'd never claim to be a programmer or even a 3D artist, but I can troubleshoot PC problems, so that's where I get to work.
I only mention this because I answered a classified ad for a 3D artist position in the local newspaper. I went in and they had people interviewing who had Master's Degrees in Computer Art. I didn't have a chance, and I felt like an idiot in the interview.
Again, just my opinion.
Best of luck to you!
Tony
I3D