How many 3D models should you include in your portfolio?

1 Quality over quantity

The first and most obvious factor is quality. You want to show your best work, not your mediocre or outdated work. Quality means not only the technical aspects of your 3D models, such as topology, textures, lighting, and rendering, but also the artistic aspects, such as style, originality, and relevance. You should only include 3D models that demonstrate your proficiency in the software and tools you use, as well as your artistic vision and flair.

2 Variety and specialization

The second factor is variety. You want to show that you can handle different types of 3D models, such as characters, environments, props, vehicles, and so on. Variety also means showing different styles, genres, and themes, such as realistic, stylized, fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and so on. Variety can help you attract a wider range of clients or employers, and show your versatility and adaptability. However, variety does not mean that you should include everything you have ever made. You should also consider your specialization and focus. If you have a specific niche or area of expertise, such as character design, architectural visualization, or game art, you should emphasize that in your portfolio. You should include more 3D models that showcase your specialization and less 3D models that are unrelated or irrelevant.

3 Target audience and purpose

The third factor is your target audience and purpose. You should tailor your portfolio to the specific needs and expectations of your potential clients or employers. For example, if you are applying for a job as a 3D animator, you should include more 3D models that demonstrate your animation skills, such as rigged characters, facial expressions, and motion capture. If you are looking for freelance work as a 3D modeler, you should include more 3D models that show your modeling skills, such as detailed meshes, UV maps, and wireframes. You should also research the type of projects and styles that your target audience is interested in, and include 3D models that match or complement them.

5 Number and size

The fifth and final factor is the number and size of your 3D models. There is no definitive answer to how many 3D models you should include in your portfolio, as it depends on the previous factors and your personal preference. However, a general rule of thumb is to include between 10 and 20 3D models, depending on the complexity and diversity of your work. You should aim for a balance between quantity and quality, variety and specialization, and breadth and depth. You should also consider the size of your 3D models, and how they affect the loading time and performance of your portfolio. You should avoid including 3D models that are too large or too small, and use compression and optimization techniques to reduce the file size and increase the loading speed.

6 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?