What are the most important skills to keep up-to-date in 3D modeling and animation?

1 Modeling fundamentals

No matter what software or style you use, the fundamentals of 3D modeling are essential for creating realistic and appealing models. You should master the basics of geometry, topology, UV mapping, texturing, and lighting, as well as the principles of design, composition, and color theory. You should also practice different types of modeling, such as organic, hard surface, low poly, and high poly, and learn how to optimize your models for different platforms and purposes.

2 Animation principles

Animation is the art of bringing your models to life, and it requires a lot of creativity and technical skill. You should be familiar with the 12 principles of animation, such as timing, spacing, squash and stretch, anticipation, and exaggeration, and how to apply them to your animations. You should also study the anatomy and motion of humans, animals, and objects, and how to convey emotion and personality through poses, expressions, and gestures. You should also experiment with different animation techniques, such as keyframe, motion capture, procedural, and physics-based.

3 Software proficiency

The software you use for 3D modeling and animation is constantly evolving and introducing new features and functions. You should keep up with the latest updates and trends, and learn how to use the tools and workflows that suit your needs and goals. You should also be familiar with the industry standards and popular software, such as Maya, Blender, ZBrush, Substance Painter, Unreal Engine, and Unity, and how to integrate them into your pipeline. You should also explore other software that can enhance your skills and creativity, such as Houdini, Marvelous Designer, Quill, and VRoid.

4 Scripting and coding

Scripting and coding are not only useful for programmers, but also for 3D modelers and animators who want to automate tasks, customize tools, and create interactive and dynamic content. You should learn the basics of scripting and coding languages, such as Python, C#, JavaScript, and MEL, and how to use them in your software. You should also learn how to use APIs, libraries, and frameworks that can help you create more complex and realistic effects and behaviors, such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, OpenCV, and Unreal Engine's Blueprints.

5 Collaboration and communication

3D modeling and animation are often collaborative and interdisciplinary endeavors, involving artists, designers, programmers, and clients from different backgrounds and cultures. You should develop your collaboration and communication skills, such as teamwork, feedback, project management, and problem-solving. You should also learn how to use online platforms and tools that can facilitate your collaboration and communication, such as GitHub, Slack, Trello, Discord, and Zoom. You should also build your portfolio and network, and showcase your skills and projects to potential employers and clients.

6 Artistic vision and innovation

The most important skill that you should keep up-to-date in 3D modeling and animation is your artistic vision and innovation. You should always strive to improve your artistic skills and style, and express your unique voice and vision through your models and animations. You should also seek inspiration and learn from other artists and sources, such as movies, games, books, and art history. You should also challenge yourself and experiment with new ideas and techniques, and push the boundaries of 3D modeling and animation.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?