You’re looking to assess your 3D graphics skills. What’s the best way to go about it?

1 Choose a skill level

Before you start assessing your 3D graphics skills, you need to have a clear idea of what skill level you are aiming for. Depending on your goals and interests, you may want to focus on different aspects of 3D graphics, such as modeling, texturing, lighting, animation, rendering, or compositing. You may also want to specialize in a specific genre, style, or industry, such as games, movies, architecture, or product design. To choose a skill level, you can use online resources, such as the CG Spectrum Skill Tree, the 3D Artist Skills Matrix, or the 3D Skills Pyramid, that provide a breakdown of the skills and knowledge required for different levels and domains of 3D graphics.

2 Compare your work

One of the best ways to assess your 3D graphics skills is to compare your work with other 3D artists who have similar or higher skill levels. You can use online platforms, such as ArtStation, Sketchfab, or Behance, to browse and analyze the work of other 3D artists in your field. You can also use online galleries, such as 3D Total, CG Society, or Blender Artists, to find curated and high-quality examples of 3D graphics. By comparing your work with others, you can see how you measure up in terms of technical quality, artistic creativity, and originality. You can also learn from the feedback and critiques that other 3D artists receive on their work.

3 Use online tools

Another way to assess your 3D graphics skills is to use online tools that can help you test your knowledge, measure your performance, and improve your skills. For example, you can use online quizzes, such as the CG Cookie Quiz, the 3D Buzz Quiz, or the 3D Skills Test, to check your understanding of the concepts and terminology of 3D graphics. You can also use online benchmarks, such as the Cinebench, the Blender Benchmark, or the Unreal Engine Benchmark, to evaluate the speed and efficiency of your 3D software and hardware. Additionally, you can use online tutorials, courses, and challenges, such as the CG Boost Challenge, the Blender Guru Tutorial, or the Udemy Course, to learn new skills, practice your techniques, and challenge yourself with different projects.

4 Seek feedback

A final way to assess your 3D graphics skills is to seek feedback from other 3D artists, mentors, or professionals who can give you constructive and honest opinions on your work. You can seek feedback from online communities, such as Reddit, Discord, or Facebook groups, where you can post your work and ask for comments and suggestions. You can also seek feedback from online mentors, coaches, or instructors, such as the CG Cookie Mentor, the CG Spectrum Mentor, or the Skillshare Instructor, who can offer you personalized and in-depth guidance and support. Moreover, you can seek feedback from online professionals, such as the ArtStation Review, the Sketchfab Review, or the Behance Review, who can provide you with industry insights and career advice.

5 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?